Contents [show]
If you’re anything like me, you know the magic of traveling in style—without blowing your budget. Over the past seven years, I’ve chased sunsets in Santorini, hiked volcanic trails in Guatemala, and checked into some of the most luxurious hotels in the world, all while staying smart about rewards and travel perks. One of the cards that has truly stood out in my travel toolkit? The Ritz Carlton credit card.
Now, let’s be honest. This isn’t your average plastic. It’s designed for travelers who appreciate the finer things—think luxury hotel stays, VIP airport lounge access, and generous annual travel credits that take the sting out of those extra charges like baggage fees or in-flight snacks. Whether you’re already a Marriott Bonvoy member or just curious about how high-end travel rewards work, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
In this deep-dive, I’ll unpack the ins and outs of the Ritz Carlton credit card travel credit—what it covers, how to redeem it, and how to squeeze every last drop of value out of this luxury hotel credit card. I’ll also share personal tips, comparisons with other top-tier travel cards, and mistakes to avoid (yep, I’ve made a few myself).
By the end of this article, you’ll know whether this card fits your lifestyle—and how to make it work hard for your next adventure.
Ready? Let’s get into it.
What Is the Ritz Carlton Credit Card?
Origin and Partnership with Chase
Back when I first heard about the Ritz Carlton credit card, it was almost like a secret in the travel community. This card launched through a partnership between Ritz Carlton and Chase Bank, and it quickly earned a reputation for offering premium travel perks that could rival even the most popular cards like the Amex Platinum.
Originally, it stood apart from the Marriott Bonvoy family. But after Marriott acquired Ritz Carlton, the card became part of the larger Marriott Bonvoy rewards ecosystem. While it’s no longer open to new applicants directly, you can still get it through product changes from other eligible Chase cards (I’ll share more about that later).
What makes this card truly shine is the way it caters to frequent luxury travelers. From airport lounge access to an annual travel credit that covers those annoying airline fees, it’s built for people who love comfort—and know how to travel smart.
Who Is the Ritz Carlton Card Designed For?
If you’re the type who prefers a quiet suite over a noisy hostel and loves elite upgrades without begging at the front desk, this card is for you.
I recommend the Ritz Carlton credit card to:
- Luxury travelers who stay at Marriott or Ritz Carlton properties often
- Folks who fly a lot and want help covering baggage or seat fees
- People who value Priority Pass lounge access for relaxing airport waits
- Anyone looking for a credit card with elite hotel status built in
In short, if you enjoy the finer things while on the road—and don’t mind paying a higher annual fee for it—you’ll find a lot to love here.
Understanding the Ritz Carlton Credit Card Travel Credit
What Counts as a Travel Credit?
Let me break this down simply. The Ritz Carlton travel credit is an annual benefit worth up to $300. This isn’t for buying airline tickets. Instead, it covers a range of airline incidental charges like:
- Baggage fees
- In-flight food and drinks
- Seat upgrades
- Day passes for airport lounges
- Change or cancellation fees
- Pet fees for in-cabin travel
The credit only applies to a specific airline you choose, so pick one you fly with often. I always go with the one I use for most domestic trips, which helps me get the most out of the benefit.
You can find the full list of what qualifies on Chase’s benefits guide.
How to Redeem Your Annual Travel Credit
Redeeming the travel credit is easy, but you need to be mindful. Here’s how I do it:
- Choose your airline through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal.
- Use your Ritz Carlton credit card to pay for eligible incidental charges.
- Wait a few business days for the credit to appear automatically on your statement.
There’s no need to call or file a claim. But remember, the airline choice can only be changed once per year—usually in January. I’ve made the mistake of selecting the wrong airline and couldn’t change it until the next year.
Also, purchases must be processed directly by the airline. So don’t expect the credit to work on bookings through third-party sites like Expedia or Orbitz.
Travel Credit Amount and Frequency
Here’s what you get:
- $300 per calendar year
- Can be used in multiple transactions
- Automatically renews each January
If you’re a frequent flier, this essentially knocks $300 off the card’s annual fee, making the other perks feel like a bonus.
Top Benefits Beyond the Travel Credit
Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status
With this card, I automatically get Gold Elite Status in the Marriott Bonvoy program. That means:
- Room upgrades (when available)
- Late checkout
- Bonus points on stays
- Enhanced room internet access
- Welcome gift of points at check-in
For someone like me who hops between Marriott properties while working abroad, this has saved me money and given me better experiences—like getting upgraded to an ocean-view suite in Bali just for having Gold status.
You can check out more about Bonvoy tiers on the Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status page.
Lounge Access & Priority Pass Select
One of the best parts of this card? Unlimited airport lounge access with Priority Pass Select. As someone who’s done more than his fair share of layovers and red-eye flights, having a quiet lounge to relax, snack, and charge devices is priceless.
When you get the card, you’ll need to enroll in Priority Pass. After that, you’ll have access to over 1,300 lounges worldwide.
Pro tip: Bring a guest! The Ritz Carlton card allows unlimited guest access, which most cards don’t.
Global Entry / TSA PreCheck Fee Credit
Every four years, you get a $100 statement credit when you use the card to pay for a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee.
I signed up for Global Entry back in 2019, and it’s been a game changer. On international trips, I breeze through customs while everyone else is stuck in line. You can learn more about the programs and eligibility on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection site.
How the Ritz Carlton Credit Card Compares to Other Travel Cards
Comparison — Ritz Carlton vs. Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant vs. Amex Platinum
When it comes to luxury travel credit cards, a few names pop up over and over. I’ve personally used all three: the Ritz Carlton Credit Card, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant, and the Amex Platinum. Each one offers something different, depending on what kind of traveler you are.
Here’s a simple comparison to help you decide:
| Feature | Ritz Carlton Credit Card | Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant | Amex Platinum Card |
| Annual Fee | $450 | $650 | $695 |
| Travel Credit | $300 (airline incidental) | $300 (general travel) | $200 (airfare), $200 (hotel), $189 (CLEAR) |
| Lounge Access | Priority Pass (unlimited) | Priority Pass (limited) | Centurion, Delta, Priority Pass |
| Hotel Status | Marriott Gold Elite | Marriott Platinum Elite | Hilton Gold + Marriott Gold |
| Application Eligibility | Product change only | Open to new applicants | Open to new applicants |
| Global Entry/TSA Credit | Yes ($100 every 4 yrs) | Yes ($100 every 4 yrs) | Yes ($100 every 4 yrs) |
| Guest Access in Lounges | Unlimited | Limited | Limited (based on lounge rules) |
In my experience, the Ritz Carlton card offers more value if you’re mainly flying and staying at Marriott properties. But if you prefer broader travel perks, the Amex Platinum might win—especially for lounge lovers.
Ritz Carlton vs Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant
If you’re already deep into the Marriott Bonvoy ecosystem, the Bonvoy Brilliant card is tempting. It offers Platinum Elite status, which is a tier above what you get with the Ritz Carlton card.
However, I still prefer the Ritz Carlton version for the higher travel credit that specifically offsets airline fees, and because it gives me more flexibility with Priority Pass guest access. Plus, the annual fee is lower, which is a big plus for frequent but budget-conscious travelers like me.
You can learn more about the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card here.
Ritz Carlton vs Chase Sapphire Reserve
Now, I know a lot of folks swear by the Chase Sapphire Reserve. And I get it—it’s one of the most flexible travel cards out there. But it’s a totally different beast.
- Sapphire Reserve is better for travelers who book through Chase Ultimate Rewards and want 3x points on a wider range of travel and dining.
- The Ritz Carlton card, on the other hand, wins on hotel-specific perks, lounge guest access, and airline incidental credits.
So if your travel style includes booking luxury hotels and using airport lounges often, the Ritz Carlton credit card gives you better lifestyle perks. If you’re more about points hacking and maximizing flexible rewards, Sapphire Reserve is a stronger fit.
Tips for Maximizing Your Ritz Carlton Travel Credit
Booking Tips to Trigger the Credit
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make the most of that $300 travel credit. The key is knowing what counts as incidental and how to trigger it properly. Here’s what I do:
- Book directly with your chosen airline—not through travel portals.
- Pay for things like checked bags, onboard food, and seat upgrades.
- Use the card each time, even if the cost is small—credits can stack up.
You can find updated eligible charges through Chase’s official FAQ.
Once, I used the credit to cover a last-minute seat change from a middle to an aisle on a five-hour flight. Worth every penny—and I didn’t have to pay out of pocket.
Combine with Other Travel Perks
Here’s a pro move: stack the travel credit with other card benefits.
- Use Priority Pass for free meals at airport lounges (or even some restaurants).
- Use your Global Entry/TSA PreCheck to skip security lines.
- Book Marriott stays to rack up Bonvoy points, especially with the card’s bonus multiplier on hotel purchases.
When I combine these perks during a single trip, I feel like I’m flying first-class—even when I’m in coach.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Misunderstanding What Qualifies as Travel Credit
This is the most common slip-up I see. A lot of travelers think they can use the $300 credit on plane tickets. That’s a no-go.
Make sure you’re only using the card for incidental fees, like:
- Baggage charges
- Seat selection fees
- In-flight snacks and Wi-Fi
Avoid third-party booking platforms, or your purchase might not be eligible. Stick to the airline’s direct website to stay safe.
Chase provides a list of eligible charges here: Chase Airline Fee Credit Guide.
Forgetting to Enroll in Key Benefits
You’d be surprised how many cardholders forget to enroll in Priority Pass or apply for Global Entry. The card gives you access, but you still need to activate it.
Here’s what I recommend:
- As soon as you get the card, head to prioritypass.com and register for your membership.
- Then, use your card to pay for your Global Entry fee at cbp.gov.
Don’t leave perks unused—it’s like throwing money away. I’ve helped a few friends get set up after months of having the card and missing out on lounge access.
Is the Ritz Carlton Credit Card Worth It in 2025?
For Frequent Luxury Travelers
If you travel often, especially within the Marriott Bonvoy network, this card is absolutely worth it. For me, it’s one of those rare credit cards that pays for itself—and then some. Here’s why.
You get:
- $300 in airline incidental credit
- Unlimited Priority Pass lounge access
- Gold Elite status with Marriott Bonvoy
- Up to $100 in Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
- Strong travel protections like trip delay and lost luggage coverage
All this for an annual fee of $450. Compare that to other premium cards, and the value becomes clear. When I fly five to six times a year, that lounge access alone saves me a few hundred dollars in food, Wi-Fi, and peace of mind.
And if you often stay at luxury Marriott properties like The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis, or JW Marriott, those upgrades and late checkouts start to feel like the norm.
You can explore more about Marriott luxury brands here: https://www.marriott.com/marriott-brands/luxury.mi
For Occasional Marriott Guests
Now, if you’re not a frequent traveler or you usually book through budget sites, this card might not be a great fit. The perks are geared toward direct bookings, loyalty status, and frequent flying.
You might be better off with something more flexible like the Chase Sapphire Preferred, which has a lower annual fee and still earns great travel points.
But if you take even 2–3 premium trips a year and enjoy the Marriott experience, I’d say the Ritz Carlton card still delivers great value in 2025.
Annual Cost vs. Estimated Travel Credit and Perks Value
To help you visualize the value breakdown, here’s what I usually estimate based on my own travel style:
| Feature | Estimated Annual Value (USD) | Notes |
| Airline Travel Credit | $300 | Covers baggage, seat upgrades, food, etc. |
| Priority Pass Lounge Access (Unlimited) | $250 | Based on 5 visits with guest access |
| Marriott Gold Elite Benefits | $100 | Room upgrades, late checkout, bonus points |
| Global Entry / TSA PreCheck Credit | $25 | Averaged over 4 years ($100/4) |
| Trip Delay / Cancellation Protection | $100 | Used this during a missed connection last year |
| Total Value Estimate | $775 | Value can increase with frequent travel |
| Annual Fee | $450 | Locked, no foreign transaction fees |
| Net Annual Benefit | $325+ | Easily offsets the cost if you travel even semi-regularly |
This is a conservative estimate based on my personal travel habits. Some travelers I know get well over $1,000 in value when they optimize everything—from travel credits to free night awards and Marriott point multipliers.
How to Apply for the Ritz Carlton Credit Card
Application Requirements & Process
Here’s the catch: you can’t apply for the Ritz Carlton credit card directly anymore. It’s only available through a product change from another Chase Marriott Bonvoy card, like the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless.
To request a product change:
- Call Chase at the number on the back of your existing Bonvoy card.
- Ask if you’re eligible to switch to the Ritz Carlton card.
- If approved, your card will be upgraded, and your benefits will transfer.
Keep in mind that you won’t receive a sign-up bonus when switching. But for many, the trade-off is worth it for the luxury hotel credit card perks.
For more on Marriott cards offered by Chase, visit Chase Marriott Cards.
Credit Score & Income Considerations
This card is a premium travel card, so expect stricter approval standards.
Here’s what worked for me:
- Excellent credit score (740+)
- Solid income and responsible use of other Chase cards
- A few years of loyalty with Marriott Bonvoy
While there’s no official income requirement, I’d suggest a household income of $75,000+ to comfortably afford the card and maximize its perks.
Chase also uses its 5/24 rule—you typically won’t qualify if you’ve opened 5 or more personal credit cards from any issuer in the past 24 months. This rule applies to the original card you’re upgrading from, so plan accordingly.
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Travel Credit in 2025
After years of bouncing between cities, countries, and continents, I’ve learned that the little things—like waived baggage fees, airport lounge snacks, or a surprise room upgrade—can make a big difference in how enjoyable a trip feels. That’s where the Ritz Carlton credit card shines. It takes care of those extras, so you can focus on what matters: the experience.
For anyone who travels with even a bit of regularity, especially through Marriott Bonvoy properties, this card delivers powerful value in 2025. From the $300 airline travel credit to Priority Pass lounge access and Gold Elite status, the benefits are hard to beat—especially when you consider its cost compared to other luxury travel cards.
Whether you’re flying across the world or planning a luxe weekend getaway closer to home, this card turns good trips into great ones. Use the tips I’ve shared here, avoid the common mistakes, and you’ll be well on your way to getting every dollar’s worth from this premium card.
And if you’re still wondering whether this card fits your travel style, take a step back and ask: “Do I want more comfort, fewer fees, and better upgrades when I travel?” If the answer is yes, then this card is probably for you.
FAQ: Ritz Carlton Credit Card Travel Credit
What exactly does the $300 travel credit cover?
It covers airline incidental charges, such as checked baggage fees, seat upgrades, in-flight meals, and Wi-Fi. It must be used with the airline you choose in your Chase account. Learn more at Chase Travel Benefits.
Can I use the credit on plane tickets or hotel bookings?
No, the travel credit doesn’t apply to tickets or hotel stays. It only works for charges billed directly by the airline and categorized as incidental fees.
How do I choose my preferred airline for the credit?
Log into your Chase Ultimate Rewards account, navigate to the benefits section, and select your preferred airline once per calendar year. Full steps are explained here: Chase Airline Fee Credit Guide.
Do I have to activate the travel credit manually?
Nope! Once you’ve selected your airline and used your Ritz Carlton credit card for an eligible charge, the credit appears automatically on your statement—usually within a few days.
Can I switch airlines during the year?
No. You can only choose or change your designated airline once per year, typically in January. So choose wisely based on your most frequent airline.
Is the Ritz Carlton credit card still available to new applicants?
Not directly. You need to hold a Chase Marriott Bonvoy card (like the Boundless) and request a product change to the Ritz Carlton version. Here’s how that works: Chase Marriott Cards.
How does this card compare to Amex Platinum?
While the Amex Platinum offers more broad-based travel perks, the Ritz Carlton card is stronger for hotel-specific benefits and unlimited lounge guest access. It also has a lower annual fee.
What is the minimum credit score required?
Most approved applicants have excellent credit, typically 740 or above. Income, loyalty history with Marriott, and existing Chase relationships also matter.
Does the card come with free night certificates like other Marriott cards?
Currently, the Ritz Carlton card does not include a free night certificate, unlike the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant or Boundless. However, it makes up for it with richer travel credits and elite perks.
Is there a foreign transaction fee?
No, the card has zero foreign transaction fees, making it a great companion for international travel.
