Expedia, one of the world’s leading online travel platforms, offers two exclusive credit card options designed for travelers: the Expedia One Key Card and the Expedia One Key+ Card. These cards promise significant rewards and benefits for frequent travelers, making them an attractive choice for individuals looking to maximize their travel spending.
In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive into the features, benefits, fees, and overall value of both cards, helping you decide whether either option is right for your travel needs.
What Are the Expedia One Key and Expedia One Key+ Cards?
The Expedia One Key Card and Expedia One Key+ Card are co-branded credit cards created in partnership with Citibank. They are part of Expedia Group’s loyalty program, One Key, which also includes other Expedia-owned platforms like Hotels.com and Vrbo. These cards are designed to reward users with travel perks while streamlining the process of earning and redeeming points across Expedia Group’s ecosystem.
Both cards cater to different types of travelers. While the One Key Card is a no-annual-fee option for occasional travelers, the One Key+ Card provides enhanced rewards and perks for an annual fee, appealing to frequent and luxury travelers.
Key Features of the Expedia One Key Cards
1. One Key Loyalty Program Integration
Both cards are fully integrated with Expedia’s One Key Loyalty Program, enabling users to earn and redeem OneKeyCash (the program’s reward currency). OneKeyCash is versatile and can be used to book travel across the Expedia Group platforms, including flights, hotels, vacation rentals, car rentals, and more.
2. No Foreign Transaction Fees
Both cards waive foreign transaction fees, making them an excellent choice for international travelers who want to avoid additional charges while spending abroad.
3. Contactless Payments
With contactless payment capabilities, both cards are user-friendly and efficient for travelers navigating airports, restaurants, or retail stores.
The Expedia One Key Card: Features and Benefits
The Expedia One Key Card is the more basic of the two options, aimed at occasional travelers or individuals who prefer not to pay an annual fee.
Rewards Structure
- 4% Back in OneKeyCash on Expedia Purchases
Earn 4% back when booking eligible travel purchases through Expedia Group platforms. This includes hotels, flights, rental cars, and vacation packages. - 1% Back on Everyday Purchases
All non-Expedia purchases earn 1% back in OneKeyCash.
Annual Fee
- $0 Annual Fee
With no annual fee, this card is a low-commitment way to start earning travel rewards.
Other Benefits
- Introductory Offer: Receive a $75 Expedia credit after spending $500 in purchases within the first three months of account opening.
- Expedia Travel Flexibility: Book travel using your OneKeyCash balance and enjoy flexibility across multiple Expedia platforms.
Who Should Get This Card?
The Expedia One Key Card is ideal for individuals who travel occasionally, are looking for a no-cost way to earn rewards, and prefer simplicity over premium benefits.
The Expedia One Key+ Card: Features and Benefits
The Expedia One Key+ Card is the premium version, offering a more robust rewards structure and additional travel perks.
Rewards Structure
- 6% Back in OneKeyCash on Expedia Purchases
Earn 6% back on eligible bookings made through Expedia Group platforms, making it a top choice for frequent travelers. - 2% Back on Dining, Transit, and Everyday Purchases
Everyday purchases like dining out or using public transportation earn 2% back, providing added value for non-travel expenses.
Annual Fee
- $95 Annual Fee
While the card comes with a $95 annual fee, the enhanced rewards and benefits often offset the cost for frequent travelers.
Additional Benefits
- Enhanced Welcome Bonus: Receive a $150 Expedia credit after spending $1,000 in purchases within the first three months.
- Expedited One Key Tier Status: Cardholders receive automatic Silver Status, unlocking exclusive perks such as free amenities, price matching, and more.
- Travel Insurance: Complimentary trip cancellation/interruption insurance and baggage delay coverage for added peace of mind.
- Priority Customer Support: Get access to a dedicated customer service line for faster assistance.
Who Should Get This Card?
The Expedia One Key+ Card is best suited for frequent travelers who spend a significant amount on travel bookings and want to maximize rewards while enjoying premium travel perks.
Comparing the Expedia One Key and One Key+ Cards
| Feature | Expedia One Key Card | Expedia One Key+ Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 | $95 |
| Rewards on Expedia | 4% back in OneKeyCash | 6% back in OneKeyCash |
| Everyday Rewards | 1% back | 2% back on dining and transit, 1% back on other purchases |
| Welcome Bonus | $75 Expedia credit | $150 Expedia credit |
| Loyalty Status | None | Automatic Silver Status |
| Travel Perks | Basic | Insurance, priority support, added flexibility |
Strengths of Expedia One Key Cards
- High Rewards on Travel
Both cards offer competitive rewards rates on Expedia purchases, making them a standout choice for loyal Expedia users. - Flexible Redemption Options
OneKeyCash is highly versatile and can be redeemed for a variety of travel-related purchases, offering users more freedom than some travel-specific reward programs. - No Foreign Transaction Fees
Both cards are ideal for international travelers, as you won’t incur extra fees when using them abroad. - Simple Reward System
Unlike other cards that require point conversion charts or complicated redemption methods, OneKeyCash is easy to understand and use. - Budget-Friendly Options
The no-annual-fee One Key Card allows casual travelers to earn rewards without any upfront costs.
Potential Drawbacks of Expedia One Key Cards
- Limited to Expedia Group Platforms
While OneKeyCash is flexible, it can only be redeemed for bookings within Expedia Group’s network, limiting its usefulness for travelers who book outside these platforms. - Low Everyday Earning Rates
The base earning rate for non-Expedia purchases (1%) is relatively low compared to other travel credit cards in the market. - Annual Fee on the One Key+ Card
While the rewards can offset the $95 annual fee, occasional travelers may find it difficult to justify the cost.
How to Maximize Your Expedia One Key Credit Card
To get the most value out of your Expedia credit card, follow these strategies:
- Book All Travel Through Expedia Group
Ensure you book flights, hotels, and car rentals through Expedia, Hotels.com, or Vrbo to earn the maximum rewards. - Take Advantage of Welcome Bonuses
Spend the required amount within the first three months to unlock the introductory bonus, providing an immediate boost to your rewards balance. - Pair With Other Reward Programs
Many Expedia bookings still qualify for airline frequent flyer miles or hotel loyalty points, so you can effectively double-dip on rewards. - Use the Card for Dining and Transit (One Key+)
For the One Key+ Card, make use of the 2% back on dining and transit to boost your rewards outside of travel purchases. - Leverage Perks with Silver Status
If you hold the One Key+ Card, take full advantage of Silver Status perks like complimentary hotel benefits or dedicated customer service.
Conclusion: Are Expedia Credit Cards Worth It?
The Expedia One Key and One Key+ Cards are solid choices for travelers who frequently book through Expedia Group platforms. The One Key Card is perfect for casual travelers who want to earn rewards without paying an annual fee, while the One Key+ Card delivers excellent value for frequent travelers who can utilize the enhanced rewards and premium perks.
However, their limitations, such as restricted redemption options and average everyday earning rates, mean they may not be ideal for everyone. If you’re an Expedia loyalist who books most of your travel through their network, these cards can help you earn points faster and travel smarter. For travelers who prefer more flexibility or higher rewards on everyday spending, other travel credit cards may offer more competitive options.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your travel habits and spending preferences. Whether you’re a globe-trotter or a casual vacationer, Expedia’s credit card offerings provide unique opportunities to earn rewards and enhance your travel experience.
