The best credit cards for Airbnb rentals in January 2026: Earn points and cash back for your stay

Core Insights - Airbnb does not have its own credit card, but various rewards credit cards can be utilized to cover Airbnb expenses or earn rewards on stays [1] Group 1: Credit Card Options for Airbnb - The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is highlighted as the best overall for covering Airbnb stays, offering 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months, equating to $750 in travel [3][20] - Chase Sapphire Preferred is noted for flexible redemptions, providing 2x points on eligible Airbnb purchases and a welcome offer of 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first 3 months [7][8] - Chase Freedom Unlimited offers a cash-back option with no annual fee, allowing users to earn a $300 bonus after spending $500 in the first 3 months, similar redemption options as Sapphire Preferred [11][12] - Citi Custom Cash® allows for 5% cash back on the top eligible spending category each billing cycle, including select travel purchases like short Airbnb stays [15][16] - The Capital One Venture X card provides premium travel perks and allows redemption of miles for Airbnb stays, with a welcome offer of 100,000 bonus miles after spending $10,000 in the first 6 months [20][21] - Bank of America Premium Rewards® Credit Card offers 2x points on eligible Airbnb purchases and a welcome offer of 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 90 days [24][25] - Citi Strata Premier® offers 3x rewards on many travel purchases, including Airbnb, with a welcome offer of 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months [27][29] Group 2: Redemption Options - Rewards can be redeemed for Airbnb gift cards, statement credits, or cash deposits into bank accounts to cover Airbnb stays [40][43] - Some credit cards allow users to cover past purchases with rewards, enabling users to earn rewards on the initial booking and then redeem them later [41][43] - It is important to consider the redemption value, aiming for at least 1 cent per point, or 100 points equating to $1 [50] Group 3: Tips for Maximizing Rewards - Using a rewards credit card for Airbnb stays can help accumulate points or miles quickly [46] - Booking through airline loyalty program portals can yield additional rewards on Airbnb stays [48] - Purchasing discounted gift cards for Airbnb can be a strategic way to save money [51] - Flexibility in travel dates and booking longer stays can lead to additional discounts [55][56]