A New Era for American Travel Rewards
Booking.com has introduced the Genius Rewards Visa Signature® Credit Card, a no-annual-fee option aimed at giving US travellers more freedom and value. By swapping complicated points systems for easy-to-use travel credits, the card bridges the gap between everyday spending and extraordinary travel.
Simple, Transparent Travel Credits
Instead of miles or points with shifting redemption values, the Genius Rewards Visa delivers travel credits equal to their cash value — one dollar in credits equals one dollar to spend on Booking.com. Credits can be applied to hotels, flights, rental cars, and attractions with no blackout dates, expiration pressures, or redemption thresholds. This straightforward system gives cardholders total control over when and how they travel.
Meeting America’s Demand for Flexibility
Recent Booking.com research found that 82% of American cardholders track their rewards closely, but less than a third feel confident they’re maximising them. By offering unrestricted redemption across all Booking.com travel services, this card eliminates common frustrations like brand limitations or devaluations. This level of flexibility makes it appealing for both planned vacations and spontaneous getaways.
Rewarding Everyday and Travel Purchases
The earning rates are tailored to cover both travel and daily life. Cardholders receive 6% credits for stays booked through the Booking.com app, 5% for other Booking.com travel bookings, and 3% for purchases made during a stay. Everyday categories such as dining, groceries, and fuel also earn 3%, while all other spending earns 2%. This ensures rewards accumulate consistently, even during non-travel months.
Instant Elite Status Benefits
From the first day, cardholders enjoy Genius Level 3 status — Booking.com’s highest loyalty tier. Perks include up to 20% off select accommodations, free breakfast at participating properties, complimentary room upgrades when available, and priority customer service. Additional advantages extend to car rentals and personalised flight alerts, making every stage of the travel experience smoother.
Valuable Welcome and Annual Bonuses
New cardholders receive $150 in travel credits after spending $1,500 in the first 90 days. Those who spend $15,000 or more annually gain an extra $100 in credits, providing consistent incentives for both casual and frequent travellers. With no foreign transaction fees, the card is also well-suited for international trips.
Built-In Travel Protection
Beyond rewards, the Genius Rewards Visa offers trip cancellation insurance, auto rental coverage, travel accident protection, and extended warranty benefits. These safeguards bring peace of mind, ensuring that travel — whether domestic or overseas — remains as stress-free as possible.
Why Real Rewards Matter
Booking.com’s survey highlights how much travellers value tangible perks, with many willing to make significant lifestyle changes in exchange for free travel. The new card taps into this desire, offering straightforward, meaningful rewards that translate directly into more trips.
Powered by Strong Partnerships
Issued in partnership with Imprint and operating on the Visa Signature network, the Genius Rewards Visa benefits from global acceptance and access to Visa’s premium services. This collaboration blends a leading travel platform with innovative payment solutions, ensuring both convenience and prestige for cardholders.
Part of a Bigger Travel Vision
According to Booking.com’s US Managing Director, the card reflects the company’s mission to remove friction from travel. Combining instant elite status, no-fee flexibility, and broad redemption options, it aligns perfectly with the brand’s goal of making the world more accessible.
For Everyday Life and Extraordinary Journeys
From weekend city breaks to long-haul adventures, the Genius Rewards Visa is built for all kinds of travellers. By rewarding both everyday purchases and travel expenses, it keeps the dream of the next trip alive all year round. Without blackout dates or complex restrictions, it empowers users to plan travel on their own terms.
Setting a New Standard in Travel Credit Cards
With transparent value, generous earning rates, and elite perks from day one, Booking.com’s Genius Rewards Visa sets a fresh benchmark for the US travel rewards market. It combines the practicality of a cashback card with the aspirational edge of a travel loyalty programme — creating a powerful tool for those who want to see more of the world without overcomplicating their finances.
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