Card Review: Capital One Venture X (& Why It's One of My Most-Used Travel Cards)

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has been one of my most-recommended travel cards for years. It is also one of my most-used cards. But, the card hasn't had a special sign-up bonus since March 2022. That's why I'm extremely excited to share this news: a limited-time, elevated offer just launched:

Earn 100,000 miles after spending $10,000 in the first 6 months

Capital One Venture X Card Details

• Annual Fee: $395

• Notable perks:

  • Annual $300 Travel Credit: Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel

  • 10,000 Miles Anniversary Bonus: Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary

  • Airport Lounge Access: Includes access to over 1,300 lounges globally (Capital One Lounges + Priority Pass lounges). Airport lounge access been one of the biggest quality-of-travel upgrades I've made! Please keep in mind that beginning February 1, 2026, guests of Venture X cardholders will no longer automatically receive complimentary access to lounges. If you're looking for a card that lets you bring 2 guests into lounges, you can explore other options here (keep in mind, they have higher annual fees).

  • Travel Insurance: Includes trip delay reimbursement, trip cancellation/interruption coverage, lost luggage coverage, and primary rental car insurance. If you travel even a few times a year, this can be a big money-saver.

  • Hertz President’s Circle Status: Makes renting cars faster and easier, often with better car selection.

  • Cell Phone Protection: Up to $800 of coverage when you pay your phone bill with the card.

  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Credit: Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck

• Miles earning:

  • 2x miles per dollar on every purchase (simple, no tracking categories)

  • 10x miles on hotels & rental cars booked through Capital One Travel

  • 5x miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel

• Venture X is best for those who:

  • Travel at least 1-2x times per year

  • Want lounge access and strong travel protection

  • Prefer a “set it and forget it” card that earns solid value everywhere (no spending bonus categories to keep track of)

My Take

Venture X's perks more than justify the fee every year (just the annual travel credit and anniversary bonus miles exceed the value of the fee). Plus, the earning structure is low-effort.

I personally use this card for most of my everyday shopping (non-bonus categories) because earning 2 miles per dollar adds up fast.

If you’ve been feeling stuck earning cash-back or airline miles you never actually use, this card can open the door to real, high-value travel.

If you decide to apply and want to use my referral link, thank you. It helps me continue making free educational content.