If you live in Ann Arbor and enjoy traveling, this is a smart question to ask. Maybe you’ve seen ads for cards that promise free flights, VIP airport perks, or big points just for signing up.
It sounds great, but is it really worth it for you? The answer depends on how often you travel, how you spend money, and what kind of benefits you’ll actually use.
Let’s walk through the pros, the cons, and the real value of travel credit cards for people living in Ann Arbor.
TL;DR
Travel credit cards can be worth it in Ann Arbor if you travel more than once or twice a year and use the card for everyday spending. The rewards, perks, and no foreign transaction fees can save money and make travel more comfortable. But they only make sense if the value of the points and benefits you get is more than the annual fee. If you rarely travel or don’t want to manage credit card rules, they might not be a good fit.
What Do Travel Credit Cards Actually Do?
Travel credit cards give you points or miles for spending money, especially on travel. That can include flights, hotels, rental cars, and even rideshares like Uber or Lyft.
Some cards also give points for restaurants, gas, or groceries. You can then use those points for free travel, discounts, or other rewards.
Let’s say you book a hotel and flight to Orlando for a Disney vacation. If your card gives 5X points on travel bookings, you could earn enough for a future flight just from that one trip.
Plus, some cards offer sign-up bonuses, like 60,000 points if you spend $4,000 in the first three months. That’s the kind of jumpstart that makes these cards really appealing.
Real Travel Perks That Matter
It’s not just about the points. Travel credit cards also come with extra perks that can improve your experience.
Here are a few examples you might actually use:
- Free checked bags on airlines like Delta or United (a big help flying out of DTW)
- Access to airport lounges (quieter spaces with snacks, drinks, and Wi-Fi)
- Travel insurance in case of delays, cancellations, or lost luggage
- Rental car coverage so you can skip the extra insurance fees
- No foreign transaction fees when traveling abroad
These perks save money and reduce stress, especially on longer or international trips. If you’re flying from Detroit Metro or even taking the train to Chicago, the benefits can kick in right away.
What About Annual Fees?
Here’s the part that trips people up: most travel credit cards charge annual fees. Some are small, like $95. Others are over $600, especially for premium cards.
That sounds like a lot (and it is), unless the value of the perks outweighs the fee. For example, if a card gives you free checked bags and lounge access, and you use those perks twice a year, that could be worth $200–$300 on its own.
Add a sign-up bonus and some travel insurance, and now that $95 fee looks like a bargain. But if you barely travel or forget to use the benefits, it’s money down the drain. So, ask yourself: Will I actually use what this card offers?
Is It Different for People in Ann Arbor?
Living in Ann Arbor comes with its own travel rhythm, and it’s a busy one. Whether you’re heading up north to the Upper Peninsula for a long weekend, hopping on a quick flight to visit family on the East Coast, or planning international adventures during school breaks, chances are you’re traveling more often than you realize.
That kind of regular travel can really pay off, especially when it comes to travel rewards. If you have a rewards credit card, you could be racking up points or miles every time you book a flight, hotel, or rental car. And here’s a smart bonus: if your job covers work travel, using your own card (and getting reimbursed later) lets you earn those rewards without spending your own money.
It’s a smart way to get more out of the trips you’re already taking. Plus, being just 25 minutes from Detroit Metro Airport makes travel even easier. With plenty of nonstop domestic and international routes, it’s simple to turn a last-minute plan into your next getaway.
How to Know If Travel Credit Cards Are Worth It in Ann Arbor, Michigan
Ask yourself a few quick questions:
- Do I travel more than once or twice a year?
- Do I fly out of DTW or take road trips that include hotels?
- Can I spend enough to earn the sign-up bonus?
- Will I actually use perks like lounge access or travel insurance?
- Will I pay my balance in full each month?
If the answer to most of these is yes, a travel credit card could be a great fit. If not, you might be better off with a cash-back card or a simpler credit card from a local bank.
Ann Arbor’s Local Credit Options vs. Travel Cards
Ann Arbor has great local banks and credit unions like UMCU (University of Michigan Credit Union). They offer low-interest credit cards with cash-back options.
That’s helpful if you don’t travel much or want to avoid annual fees. But they usually don’t offer travel perks like airport lounge access, insurance, or big points bonuses.
Again, it comes down to your habits. If you want simplicity, local cards are great. If you’re planning more than one trip a year, the benefits of a national travel credit card may be worth it.
Using Travel Cards for Everyday Spending
You don’t have to be a constant flyer to earn points. Many travel cards also reward you for everyday purchases like:
- Groceries
- Dining out
- Streaming services
- Gas and tolls
If you use the card for these items and pay it off each month, the points will add up, even if you only take one or two trips a year.
Let’s say you put $2,000 a month on your travel card. That’s $24,000 a year. Even at 1.5X points, you could earn 36,000 points, enough for a free domestic flight. So yes, travel credit cards can be worth it in Ann Arbor, Michigan, just from your normal daily spending.
What About Sign-Up Bonuses?
Sign-up bonuses are one of the biggest reasons people try travel credit cards. If you can spend a certain amount in the first few months (usually $3,000–$4,000), you’ll earn a large chunk of points.
That could be enough for a free flight or two. But be careful, don’t overspend just to hit the bonus.
Only use the card for things you already plan to buy. And remember, the bonus is a one-time deal. You should still like the card after that reward is gone.
What You Need to Qualify
Most travel credit cards require good to excellent credit. That usually means a score above 700.
If your credit score is in the high 600s or below, you might want to build your credit before applying.
Getting denied can hurt your score. And applying for too many cards in a short time can also bring your score down.
Pick one good card, use it wisely, and see how it works for you.
Watch Out for These Pitfalls
Travel credit cards only work if you’re smart about how you use them.
Here are a few things to avoid:
- Carrying a balance: The interest will cancel out your rewards
- Missing payments: That can lower your credit score
- Not using the perks: If you forget about free bags or don’t use points, you lose money
- Letting points expire: Make sure you know the rules
Pay your balance in full every month. Keep track of your rewards. And use the benefits you’re paying for.
How Travel Cards Fit Ann Arbor Life
Living in Ann Arbor means access to amazing travel opportunities. You can get to Detroit Metro Airport in under 30 minutes. Weekend flights to cities like New York, Atlanta, or Denver are easy.
Ann Arbor also has a well-traveled community (students, faculty, professionals, and families who value experiences). Whether you’re going to a wedding in California or a study abroad trip in Spain, having the right card can make it easier and cheaper.
For people who live in Ann Arbor and like to travel, travel credit cards can definitely be worth it. Just make sure you choose one that fits your habits, and use it wisely.
Plan Smart with Lemon Drop Travel
At Lemon Drop Travel Co., we don’t just plan amazing vacations. We help you make smart travel choices from the start.
If you’re wondering whether a travel credit card fits your plans, we’ll talk through your travel goals, how often you travel, and which perks matter most to you.
We can also show you how to combine points, perks, and special deals to save money and travel better.
Already have a travel card? Let us help you use those rewards wisely by booking trips that maximize your value.
From weekend getaways to big international escapes, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Let Lemon Drop Travel help you travel smarter.
Reach out today to plan a trip that works with your travel credit card, not against it.