Bank of America Travel Center Guide: Rewards, BofA Benefits, and Smart Money Habits Explained

If you’re a Bank of America customer and love to travel, there’s a good chance you’ve scrolled past the “Travel Center” link in your online banking dashboard without giving it much thought. But here’s the thing: this built-in travel portal might actually be one of the easiest ways to book your next trip while earning extra perks along the way. 

The Bank of America Travel Center lets you book flights, hotels, and rental cars just like you would on Expedia or Kayak, but with some added bonuses. You can always use your rewards points to pay for bookings, earn double or even triple points, and tap into special discounts or travel deals exclusive to Bank of America cardholders. 

In this guide, I’ll explain the Travel Center, how it works, and whether it’s worth using compared to booking directly with an airline or hotel. We’ll also look at the best BoA cards for travel, what perks come with them, and a few things to watch out for before you book. 

What is the Bank of America Travel Center? 

The Bank of America Travel Center is an online booking platform available to Bank of America credit card holders, especially those with travel rewards cards. It allows you to book flights, hotels, and rental cars directly through your Bank of America account, either on your desktop or through the mobile app. 

If you’ve used travel sites like Expedia or Orbitz, the layout will feel familiar. You can search for destinations, compare prices, apply filters, and even see ratings and special offers. But what sets this platform apart is its direct connection to your Bank of America credit card. That means you can use your rewards points to pay for bookings or earn extra points just for using the Travel Center. 

Accessing it is easy. Once you’re logged into your account, look for the “Travel Center” under your rewards or benefits section. From there, you can search for your next trip and start booking. The system works with over 200 airlines and 200,000 hotels, offering a wide selection for most travel needs. 

There are no booking fees when you use the Travel Center, and in some cases, you may even find exclusive prices or promotions. While it’s powered by a third-party travel provider, the platform is designed to be simple, fast, and reward-friendly for Bank of America customers. 

So when you see the term “BoFA,” just know it’s another way of referring to Bank of America. In this case, the BoFA Travel Center is simply a useful tool that helps you plan, book, and pay for trips using either your card or your accumulated points. 

Bank of America Travel Deals: Are They Better Than Booking Directly? 

One of the first things people want to know about the Bank of America Travel Center is whether it's actually worth using. Can you get better travel deals compared to booking directly with an airline or hotel? The answer isn’t black and white—but understanding the pros and cons can help you make a smarter decision based on your travel style. 

Pros of Booking through BoFA Travel Center 

1. Earn more rewards points 

If you get a Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card (or a similar eligible card), you can earn 3 points for every dollar spent on travel booked through the Travel Center, double what you'd earn on regular purchases. That’s a big incentive, especially if you're planning a vacation or business trip. 

2. Use your rewards instantly 

You don’t need to wait to apply points later. Points can be redeemed your points directly at checkout, which can lower your out-of-pocket cost for flights, hotels, or rental cars. 

3. No booking fees for cardholders 

Unlike some travel sites, which charge service fees, the Travel Center lets you book with no additional fees if you use an eligible Bank of America card. 

4. Access to Exclusive Hotel Discounts

The Bank of America Travel Center isn’t just about making travel easier—it also offers some great perks, especially if you already use a Bank of America credit or debit card. These extras can make your trips smoother and help stretch your points or dollars a little further, giving you more value every time you book.

5. All-in-One Booking with Around-the-Clock Support

Flights, hotels, rental cars—all sorted in a few clicks. No juggling multiple tabs or last-minute stress. And if something goes sideways during your trip? The portal provides 24/7 customer support through call services, which act as a lifesaving resource when you find yourself in a different time zone.

Cons of Booking through BoFA Travel Center 

1. Limited access to hotel loyalty perks  

If you’re someone who enjoys perks like room upgrades, late checkout, or bonus points through hotel loyalty programs, booking through the Travel Center may not trigger those benefits. Hotels usually only offer elite perks for bookings made directly on their own site. 

2. Customer service may be less responsive 

Since bookings go through a third-party travel provider (not Bank of America itself), support can sometimes feel slower or less personalized. Some users have reported long hold times or trouble resolving last-minute issues. 

3. Not always the absolute cheapest 

While prices are usually competitive, they’re not always the lowest. You may occasionally find better deals on budget travel sites, airline flash sales, or through loyalty member-only rates. That’s why it’s always a good idea to compare prices across platforms before finalizing a booking. 

4. Portal is for eligible cardholders only 

You must have a Bank of America travel rewards card to use the Travel Center. If you’re banking with BoA but don’t have the right card, you won’t have access to this booking platform. 

Therefore, If you’re a rewards-focused traveler who values simplicity and wants to rack up points fast, the BoFA Travel Center is a solid option. But if you’re loyal to specific hotel brands or want to maximize elite benefits, booking directly might still be your best move.  

Extra Perks of Using Bank of America Travel Center 

Beyond the convenience of booking travel in one place, the Bank of America Travel Center comes with a handful of valuable extras, especially if you’re already a Bank of America credit or debit cardholder. These added perks can elevate your travel experience and help you get more out of every dollar (or point) you spend. 

Exclusive discounts for BoFA cardholders 

From time to time, the Travel Center offers exclusive deals just for Bank of America cardholders. These can include lower hotel rates, discounted flights for a limited time, or special car rental offers you won’t see elsewhere. These offers vary, so it’s always worth checking the portal before booking elsewhere; you might be surprised by a lower price or exclusive promotion. 

Travel insurance coverage on eligible cards 

If you’re using an eligible Bank of America credit card—like the Travel Rewards or Premium Rewards card—you’ll automatically receive travel protection benefits at no extra cost. These typically include trip cancellation and interruption coverage, lost luggage reimbursement, and rental car insurance. It's an added safety net that can save you time, stress, and money if things don’t go as planned on your trip. 

Budgeting help from Better Money Habits® 

Bank of America also offers a free financial education platform called Better Money Habits. While it’s not directly part of the Travel Center, it’s a great resource if you’re planning a vacation and trying to stick to a budget. You’ll find easy-to-understand guides on saving for trips, managing expenses while traveling, and tips for avoiding debt while still enjoying your journey. 

Luxury travel perks for Private Bank clients 

For high-net-worth individuals who use Bank of America Private Bank, there are even more travel benefits available. These clients may receive VIP travel services, personalized concierge support, and access to exclusive experiences through partnerships that go beyond the standard Travel Center offerings. It’s all part of BoFA’s effort to tailor luxury solutions for their most affluent clients.  In short, the Travel Center isn’t just for booking trips—it’s your secret weapon for better travel. Score extra points, snag deals you won’t find anywhere else, and get peace of mind with built-in protections. If you’ve got a Bank of America card, it’s basically free upgrades for your travel game

How to Open a Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card 

If you’re looking to make your travel spending go further, Bank of America offers a solid lineup of travel credit cards that integrate easily with its Travel Center. Whether you want simple cashback or flexible points, there’s something here for every kind of traveler. 

Best BoFA Travel Cards at a Glance  

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card 

An excellent option for travelers who want straightforward rewards with no annual fee. 

• 25,000 bonus points (worth $250 in travel) after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days 
• You can get 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases 
• Earn 3 points per dollar on travel booked through the BoFA Travel Center 
• No annual fees and no foreign transaction fees 
• Points never expire while the account remains open 
• Preferred Rewards members can boost their earning potential by 25% to 75% 

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card 

A smart pick for frequent travelers seeking more perks and flexibility. 

• 60,000 bonus points (a $600 value) after $4,000 in purchases within 90 days 
• You can get 2 points per dollar on travel and dining and 1.5 on other purchases 
• Up to $200 in travel statement credits (airline incidental fees and TSA PreCheck/Global Entry) 
• $95 annual fee 
• No foreign transaction fees 

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite Credit Card 

Made for luxury travelers who want elevated experiences and higher rewards. 

• 75,000 bonus points (a $750 value) 
• You can get 2 points per dollar on travel and dining, 1.5 on all other purchases 
• Receive up to $570 in combined travel and lifestyle statement credits 
• $550 annual fee 
• Access to airport lounges, hotel perks, and full-service concaierge 

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students 

A beginner-friendly card designed to help students build credit while earning rewards. 

• 25,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days 
• Same reward rates as the regular Travel Rewards card 
• There is no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees 
• Free FICO® Score access and tools to help build financial habits 

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card 

Best for those who are building or rebuilding credit but still want to earn points. 

• No annual fee 
• Requires a refundable security deposit ($200–$5,000) 
• You can earn 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases 
• Earn 3 points per dollar on travel booked through BoFA Travel Center 
• Points never expire 

Alaska Airlines Visa® Credit Card 

Great for Alaska Airlines loyalists who want travel-specific perks. 

• 60,000 bonus miles plus a 30% flight discount 
• Free checked bags, priority boarding, and Companion Fare benefit 
• $95 annual fee 

How to get this  

Here are quick, easy steps to apply, which usually take just a few minutes. 

Step 1: Visit the Bank of America Credit Cards Page 

Head to bankofamerica.com/credit-cards and explore the travel options. When you find the card that fits your needs, click “Apply Now.” 

Step 2: Review Your Eligibility 

A credit score of 700 or higher is generally recommended for approval, though students and secured cards are more flexible. If you're already a Bank of America customer, log in to check for pre-qualified offers. 

 Step 3: Complete the Application 

Fill in your details—name, address, Social Security number, income, and employment info. Most applications receive a decision in just a few minutes. 

Step 4: Activate and Start Using Your Card 

Once approved, your card will arrive by mail within 5–7 business days. After activation, you can immediately begin using it with the BoFA Travel Center to book flights, hotels, and more while earning rewards. 

How to Close a Bank of America Account 

Even with all the great perks of the Travel Center, there might come a time when your account just doesn’t fit your needs anymore. The good news? Closing it is a pretty simple process—as long as you follow the right steps.

Step 1: Clear Things Up First

If it’s a credit card, make sure there’s no balance left to pay. If it’s a bank account, transfer out every last dollar so nothing gets left behind.

Step 2: Reach Out to the Bank

You can either call Bank of America’s support line or log in to your account online to make the request. Choose whichever option feels easier.

(Quick tip: Having your account number ready can save time.)

Step 3: Get It in Writing

Once the request is submitted, you should use their encrypted messaging system to send a brief message. The written documentation provides evidence when someone questions your account closure status. 

Step 4: Keep an Eye Out

Check your credit report for the account status to confirm the closure along with zero remaining balance after the request process. Keep an eye on your inbox for potential remaining statements. Examine your credit report a couple of months down the line to confirm that everything has been properly completed.

Consider Alternatives before You Close  

Before pulling the plug completely, consider options like: 

• Downgrading your credit card to one with no annual fee (to keep your credit history intact) 
• Switching to a different BoFA product that better fits your current lifestyle 
• Freezing the card for a while if you're not using it but don’t want to lose account history 

Closing an account is a personal decision, but doing it the right way ensures it won’t hurt your credit or financial plans in the long run. 

Bank of America Travel Rewards Reviews: Is It Worth It? 

If you like to keep things simple while earning travel perks, the Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card is a popular go-to for many travelers. With no annual fee and flexible redemption options, it appeals to many people who want to earn points without jumping through hoops. But like any card, it comes with both pros and cons—so it's worth taking a closer look before you apply. 

What People Like About It 

One of the biggest draws is how flexible the redemption process is. You can use your points for a variety of travel-related expenses, including flights, hotels, car rentals, baggage fees, and even dining. Redeeming points is simple, and you can apply them as statement credits for eligible purchases. 

Another plus is that there are no annual fees or foreign transaction charges. This makes it a great option for international travelers who want to avoid extra costs while abroad. 

If you’re already a Bank of America customer enrolled in the Preferred Rewards program, the benefits get even better. Depending on your membership tier, you can earn 25 to 75 percent more points on every purchase. 

What to Keep in Mind 

Despite its advantages, the card does have a few limitations. For starters, you won’t be able to transfer points to airline or hotel loyalty programs. If you usually consolidate your rewards into those types of accounts, this might be a deal-breaker. Also, if you use your points for things other than travel—like cash back or gift cards—the value isn’t quite as strong. For example, 2,500 points will only get you $15 in cash back, which is less rewarding than using them for travel. 

Finally, the card doesn’t include some of the premium travel perks found in higher-end cards. There’s no access to airport lounges, no TSA PreCheck or Global Entry fee credits, and limited travel insurance coverage. If those perks matter to you, it might be worth looking at other travel cards. 

Who This Card Is Best For  

This card is a good fit for people who want a simple, low-maintenance rewards card. It’s especially valuable if you’re already a Bank of America customer who can take advantage of the Preferred Rewards program. It also works well for travelers who prefer the freedom to book through any airline or hotel without being tied to a specific loyalty program. 

However, if you’re someone who travels frequently and wants extras like lounge access or more flexible reward transfers, there are better options out there. 

Final Thoughts on Using the BoFA Travel Center   

If you already have a Bank of America rewards card, using the Travel Center can be a great way to get more out of your points. It’s convenient and helps you earn bonus rewards with very little effort. 

That said, it’s always smart to shop around. Sometimes, you might find a better deal by booking directly through a hotel or airline, especially if they offer better cancellation terms. 

Final Verdict: Should You Use BoFA Travel Center? 

If you already have a BoFA rewards card and want to earn a little extra cash back or travel points, it’s definitely worth checking out. Booking through the Travel Center can help you maximize your rewards with minimal effort. 

That said, it’s always a good idea to compare prices. In some cases, booking directly through an airline or hotel might be a bit cheaper—or offer more flexible cancellation options. 

Still, for many people, the ease of booking everything in one place, plus the bonus rewards, makes it a convenient and rewarding way to plan trips.