The NatWest Travel Reward Credit Card is designed for individuals who travel frequently and want a credit card that not only earns them rewards on their spending but also provides practical benefits when they are abroad. Unlike many premium travel cards, this card stands out for its simplicity and the absence of a recurring annual fee, making it an accessible option for a wide range of consumers. It is a no-frills, practical card that focuses on delivering value where it matters most for travelers.
Key Features and Benefits
The NatWest Travel Reward Credit Card is built around a few core benefits that directly appeal to travelers and everyday spenders in the UK.
1. No Foreign Transaction Fees: This is arguably the most significant benefit of the card. Many UK credit cards charge a foreign transaction fee, typically around 3%, on all purchases made in a foreign currency. The NatWest Travel Reward Credit Card eliminates this fee, which can lead to substantial savings on international trips, whether you’re paying for hotels, meals, or souvenirs. This feature makes it an ideal card to keep in your wallet for any international travel.
2. Competitive Rewards Program: The card’s rewards system is tied to the NatWest MyRewards program, which allows you to earn rewards on a variety of purchases. The earning structure is tiered to maximize value on travel-related expenses:
- 1% back in Rewards on eligible travel spending. This includes a wide range of purchases such as flights, train tickets, car rentals, hotels, cruises, and even bus and ferry travel. This rate is very competitive for a no-annual-fee card and allows you to quickly accumulate rewards on your biggest travel expenses.
- 1% to 15% back in Rewards at a selection of NatWest’s partner retailers. These partners often include popular brands, and the offers are regularly updated, providing opportunities for significant rewards on everyday shopping.
- 0.1% back in Rewards on all other eligible spending. While a lower rate, this ensures that every pound you spend contributes to your rewards balance, meaning you are always earning towards your next reward.
3. No Annual Fee: The card has no annual fee, which is a major advantage. This means you don’t have to worry about justifying the cost of the card with the rewards you earn. You can hold the card indefinitely and use it exclusively for foreign transactions or travel-related purchases without any financial commitment.
4. Flexible Reward Redemption: The rewards you earn through the MyRewards program are flexible. You can redeem them in several ways:
- As cash: You can convert your Rewards into cash and have it paid directly into your NatWest account.
- As e-codes: You can exchange them for e-codes to use at various partner retailers, which can often provide better value than a simple cash redemption.
- As a donation: You also have the option to donate your Rewards to a selected charity.
This flexibility allows you to choose the redemption method that best suits your needs, whether you want to save up for your next trip or simply get a little cash back.
5. Mastercard Acceptance: The card is a Mastercard, which is one of the most widely accepted payment networks in the world. This ensures that you can use your card almost anywhere you travel, both in-store and online, without having to worry about acceptance issues.
The Application Process: How to Apply (in English)
Applying for the NatWest Travel Reward Credit Card is a straightforward process, primarily done online. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the application.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before starting, it’s crucial to check if you meet the eligibility criteria to avoid a potential rejection that could impact your credit score. NatWest offers an eligibility checker tool that allows you to see if you’re likely to be approved and what your indicative credit limit might be, all without leaving a mark on your credit file.
To be eligible, you must typically:
- Be a resident of the UK.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have a minimum annual income, usually around £10,000.
- Have a good credit history.
Step 2: Gather Required Information
The online application will ask for a range of personal and financial details. Have the following information ready to ensure a smooth application process:
- Personal details: Full name, date of birth, and your current address(es) for the last three years.
- Financial information: Your total annual income (after tax) and details of your employment status (e.g., employed, self-employed, retired).
- Bank account details: Your bank account number and sort code.
- Existing credit details: Information about any existing credit cards, loans, or mortgages you have, including any balances you wish to transfer.
Step 3: Access the Application Page
The best way to apply is directly through the official NatWest website. Navigate to the credit cards section and find the “Travel Reward Credit Card” page. You will see an “Apply Now” or “Check Eligibility and Apply” button.
Step 4: Complete the Online Application Form
The application is an online form that you will need to fill out. The form is designed to be quick and user-friendly. If you are an existing NatWest customer and apply through your online banking portal, some of your details may be pre-filled, saving you time.
- Follow the on-screen instructions, providing all the requested information accurately.
- Be prepared to answer questions about your income, expenses, and other financial commitments.
- Carefully read and agree to the terms and conditions before submitting.
Step 5: Await a Decision
After you submit your application, you may receive an instant decision. In some cases, the application may be referred for further review, which can take a few business days. If you are approved, NatWest will send your new card to you by post, usually within 5 to 7 working days.
Final Verdict
The NatWest Travel Reward Credit Card is a compelling choice for UK residents looking for a straightforward, cost-effective way to save money and earn rewards on their travels. Its no annual fee and lack of foreign transaction fees make it a strong contender for anyone who travels internationally. While the rewards program may not be as extensive as those on some premium cards, the combination of 1% back on travel spending and the flexibility of the MyRewards program provides excellent value. For a card that requires no financial commitment to hold, it delivers a lot of practical benefits, making it an excellent addition to any traveler’s wallet.
