November is one of the best months to apply for a travel credit card in the US. Several cards are offering their biggest welcome bonuses of the year — worth hundreds, and in one case nearly $2,000, in free travel. Here are the strongest offers live in November 2026.

The biggest bonuses right now

  • American Express Platinum Card: welcome offer of up to 175,000 points, worth an estimated $1,995 for travel
  • IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card: 180,000 bonus points, worth an estimated $1,242
  • Chase Sapphire Reserve: 100,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 in the first 3 months, worth an estimated $1,150
  • Chase Sapphire Preferred: 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months, worth an estimated $863 — the best card for beginners
  • Capital One Venture Rewards: 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months, plus a limited-time $300 travel stays credit — together worth more than $1,000
  • Southwest personal cards: elevated offers of up to 90,000 bonus points

One deadline to know: 2 December 2026

Southwest is changing its Companion Pass rules from 2027 — credit card welcome bonuses will no longer count towards earning the pass. If you apply and are approved by 2 December 2026, your bonus points will still count towards 2026 qualification, and a pass earned this year stays valid through all of 2027.

Before you apply

  • Welcome bonuses require a minimum spend in the first 3 months — only apply if you can meet it with normal spending
  • Offers change often and can disappear without notice — always confirm the current terms on the card issuer’s own website
  • A big bonus is only worth it if the card fits how you actually travel

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