Credit cards are getting smarter

Europe has a wide variety of low-cost airlines that offer service on unique routes and fares that are significantly lower than full-service, legacy airlines. A few, such as Vueling, are even bookable through major airline loyalty programs, so you can redeem transferable points for flights on them. But, as TPG's senior points and miles writer Katie Genter learned this spring, Vueling can be difficult to deal with if anything goes wrong during your trip.

Frequent Walmart shoppers know how much value the retail giant offers. In addition to getting great prices on everything from groceries and household goods to clothing and electronics, you can earn cash back and other benefits when you shop at Walmart using various rewards credit cards.

A pleasant but persistent voice followed me around for the last couple of weeks, saying, "You really should apply."

JetBlue is planning a sprawling new partnership with British Airways, through which the two airlines would link significant parts of their networks across the U.S. and Europe.

The American Automobile Association (AAA) is forecasting that 38.4 million people will be hitting the road for Memorial Day Weekend—up 4% from last year and the highest number since the Triple-A started tracking the holiday’s traffic in 2000.

Condé Nast Traveler has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Condé Nast Traveler and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. We don't review or include all companies, or all available products. Moreover, the editorial content on this page was not provided by any of the companies mentioned, and has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. Opinions expressed here are entirely those of Condé Nast Traveler's editorial team.

If you live in the U.S., you may not be familiar with Avianca and its LifeMiles frequent flyer program. But if you like to fly on Star Alliance carriers — such as United Airlines, Air Canada and Lufthansa — you really should familiarize yourself with Avianca LifeMiles, even if your travels don't frequently take you to the airline's home country of Colombia.

Many consumers only want to have a few credit cards. But even if you don't want a wallet full of top travel cards, it's likely worth getting and keeping a cobranded hotel credit card with your favorite hotel loyalty program.

Chase cardholders can book Southwest Airlines flights through the Chase Travel portal, and that’s a rarity for leisure travelers.

A fifth American tourist has been arrested on suspicion of possession of ammunition in a small Caribbean territory, CBS News reported.

Artificial intelligence might take your job. But at least you'll be less likely to miss a connecting flight.

Let's say you bought a ticket to Europe last year, but you need a refund because your flight was canceled. The airline returns the fare cost to your credit card, leading to a negative balance on your card. Returned or refunded purchases don't just decrease your account balance, though. They also decrease your rewards balance.