Why I Keep My Premium Travel Card Despite High Fees

Have you ever stared at a credit card statement, jaw dropped, wondering how a single piece of plastic could cost so much? That was me when I saw the annual fee for my premium travel credit card jump to a staggering $795. At first, I thought, “This is absurd!” But after some number-crunching and a bit of soul-searching, I realized this card is still worth every penny for me. Here’s why I’m sticking with it—and why you might want to consider a similar card if travel and smart spending are your jam.

The Case for Keeping a Premium Travel Card

The idea of paying nearly $800 a year for a credit card sounds like a luxury reserved for jet-setters with bottomless bank accounts. But hear me out: the benefits of a premium travel card can far outweigh the cost if you know how to use it. For me, it’s not just about the card; it’s about the lifestyle it supports—frequent travel, seamless experiences, and financial perks that make every trip feel like a steal.

Let’s dive into the reasons I’m keeping this card, from the travel credits that practically pay for themselves to the unexpected ways it’s saved me thousands. If you’ve ever wondered whether a high-fee card is worth it, this breakdown might just change your mind.

A Travel Credit That Packs a Punch

One of the standout features of my card is its $300 annual travel credit. This isn’t some restrictive perk that only applies to specific airlines or hotel chains—it’s a flexible credit that covers almost any travel-related purchase. Think flights, hotels, car rentals, rideshares, even parking fees at the airport. It’s like getting $300 handed to you every year to spend on whatever travel expense pops up.

This year alone, I’ve used the credit for a mix of things: a rental car in Spain, a few Uber rides in New York, and even parking at my local airport. The best part? It applies automatically, so I don’t have to jump through hoops to claim it. With that $300 off the table, the effective annual fee drops to $495—still steep, but much more manageable when you consider the other perks.

“A good travel credit is like a free vacation fund—it’s money you’d spend anyway, but now it’s covered.”

– Personal finance expert

The flexibility of this credit makes it a game-changer. Unlike other cards that limit you to specific vendors or categories, this one lets you spend how you want. For someone like me, who travels at least a few times a year, it’s a no-brainer.

Rental Car Coverage That Saved My Wallet

Let’s talk about a moment that could’ve ruined my trip but didn’t, thanks to my card’s primary rental car coverage. Picture this: I’m dropping off a rental car in Paris, exhausted from a week of exploring, when the agent points out a tiny chip in the windshield. Next thing I know, I’m staring at a bill for over $1,000. My heart sank—until I remembered my card’s coverage.

I filed a claim, sent in the paperwork, and within weeks, I was reimbursed. No hassle, no arguing with my personal auto insurance, no rate hikes. The card’s primary coverage means it steps in before your own insurance, saving you from potential headaches. It covers damage, theft, and even loss-of-use charges, up to the car’s actual cash value.

Here’s why this matters: rental car companies charge anywhere from $15 to $30 a day for their collision damage waivers. If you rent a car for a week, three times a year, that’s $315 to $630 in fees. By using my card and declining the rental company’s coverage, I’m already saving more than the annual fee in some years. That Paris incident? It practically paid for the card itself.

• Primary coverage: No need to involve your personal auto insurance.
• Comprehensive protection: Covers damage, theft, and loss-of-use charges.
• Cost savings: Avoids $15–$30 daily rental car insurance fees.

For frequent renters like me, this benefit alone is a reason to keep the card. It’s like having a safety net for every road trip.

Dining Credits That Fit My Lifestyle

Another perk that sealed the deal for me is the card’s $300 annual dining credit, split into two $150 semi-annual credits. At first, I was skeptical—dining credits often feel like a trap to get you to overspend at fancy restaurants you’d never visit. But this one’s different. It applies to reservations made through a curated list of restaurants, and I was pleasantly surprised to find places I actually like.

From cozy neighborhood bistros to upscale Italian spots and even my favorite local steakhouse, the options are varied and approachable. I don’t have to blow my budget on a five-star meal to use the credit. Last month, I took my partner to a Mexican restaurant we’d been eyeing, and the $150 credit covered most of the bill. It felt like a free date night.

“Dining credits are only valuable if they align with your habits—otherwise, they’re just a shiny distraction.”

– Financial blogger

The key here is that the credit encourages me to enjoy experiences I’d already want, without forcing me to change my spending habits. That’s a win in my book.

DoorDash Perks That Add a Personal Touch

Here’s where the card gets a little fun: DoorDash credits. Every month, I get a $5 restaurant credit and two $10 credits for everyday essentials, totaling $300 a year. Sure, it’s not a huge amount, but I’ve found a way to make it feel special. Instead of just using these credits for myself, I’ve started sending surprise treats to friends and family.

Last week, my best friend was stressing about a work deadline, so I sent her a pint of her favorite ice cream. When my brother was down with the flu, I ordered him some soup and tissues. These little gestures cost me nothing thanks to the credits, but they make me feel like a superhero. Who doesn’t love being the friend who shows up with a surprise delivery?

These credits are available through a specific activation process, and they’re good until late 2027. For me, they add a layer of joy to the card’s value—something you can’t quite put a price on.

Lounge Access That Elevates Every Trip

Travel can be exhausting, but the card’s Priority Pass Select membership makes it a little more bearable. With access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, I can relax in comfort before a flight. Whether it’s grabbing a coffee, enjoying a meal, or just finding a quiet spot to work, lounges transform the airport experience.

I’ve used this perk in cities from London to Los Angeles, and it’s always a highlight. The card also grants access to exclusive lounges, like those in the Chase Sapphire network, where I can bring up to two guests for free. It’s a small thing, but it makes me feel like I’m getting VIP treatment without the VIP price tag.

Perhaps the most underrated part? The lounges often have amenities like showers and nap rooms, which are a lifesaver on long layovers. For frequent travelers, this perk alone can justify a chunk of the annual fee.

Is a Premium Card Right for You?

Not everyone needs a card with a $795 annual fee. If you don’t travel often or prefer to keep things simple, there are other options that might suit you better. Here’s a quick look at what to consider if this card isn’t your vibe.

Downgrade to a More Affordable Option

If the fee feels like too much, you can downgrade to a card with a lower annual cost, like one with a $95 fee. These cards still offer solid rewards, like 5X points on certain travel purchases and 3X on dining, plus the ability to transfer points to airline and hotel partners. You’ll lose some perks, like lounge access, but it’s a great middle ground for occasional travelers.

Downgrading is easy—just call the card issuer and request a product change. Your account history and points stay intact, so there’s no need to start from scratch.

Explore Other Premium Cards

Another option is to switch to a different premium card with a lower fee, like one costing $395 annually. These cards often come with similar benefits, like a $300 travel credit, lounge access, and bonus miles on travel purchases. The rewards structure might differ slightly, but the savings on the annual fee can make it a compelling choice.

The key is to match the card to your lifestyle. If you’re a frequent traveler, the higher fee might be worth it. If not, a lower-cost card could still deliver plenty of value.

Maximizing Your Card’s Value

To make a premium card worth its fee, you’ve got to use it strategically. Here’s how I squeeze every ounce of value from mine:

1. Use every credit: Don’t let travel or dining credits go to waste—plan purchases to maximize them.
2. Leverage travel protections: Always use the card for rentals and big trips to take advantage of insurance benefits.
3. Hit the lounge: Even if it’s just for a quick coffee, lounges make travel more enjoyable.
4. Transfer points wisely: Move rewards to airline or hotel partners for maximum value on redemptions.

By staying intentional with my spending, I’ve turned this card into a tool that saves me money and enhances my travel experiences. It’s not just a card—it’s a strategy.

The Bottom Line

Is a $795 annual fee steep? Absolutely. But for me, the math checks out. The travel credits, rental car coverage, dining perks, and lounge access add up to thousands in value—far more than the fee itself. Plus, the little moments, like sending a friend a surprise treat or relaxing in a lounge before a long flight, make it feel like a worthwhile investment.

That said, it’s not for everyone. If you don’t travel much or prefer a simpler rewards structure, a lower-fee card might be a better fit. The trick is to know your habits and pick a card that aligns with them. For me, this premium travel card is a keeper, and I’m excited to see where it takes me next.

“A credit card is only as good as the value you extract from it—choose wisely.”

– Financial advisor

What about you? Are you sticking with a high-fee card, or are you thinking of switching? Weigh the benefits against your lifestyle, and you’ll find the right fit.