It's a given that for travellers, the most important item they need to bring at all times would be their passport. Not only is this a valid form of identification, without this, they would not be permitted to go in and out of any country. After making sure that the passport is safely tucked inside their bag, what else should a traveller bring? Apart from his plane ticket, a traveller should always have a source of funds.

Traditionally, travellers would use either cold cash (converted to local currency) or traveller's checks. These were sound ways to conduct business although each had their own pros and cons. The problem with carrying cash is that you will always be concerned about your wallet you may miss out on enjoying your vacation. With traveller's checks, on the other hand, not all establishments honour these. The problem for both is that, when you run out of cash or traveller's checks, you're vacation is doomed. Nowadays, travellers no longer need to contend with bulky wallets or dwindling traveller's checks because they have credit cards.

Credit cards are virtual necessities for the tourist of today. Not only do cards give the holder the power to make purchases anywhere and anytime (as most are accepted by establishments the world over), they are also very handy (does not take up too much space in any purse or wallet) and quite safe to use.

Knowing that majority of travellers now prefer to carry plastic money instead of hard cash, credit card companies have taken it upon themselves to sweeten an already sweet deal. Through travel credit cards, card holders (especially those who travel a lot) not only get a sense of financial security even when they are away; they receive something back for every dollar purchase they make.

Just like earning rewards points, travel credit cards allow card holders to accumulate points which they can then redeem against a selected list of products or, depending on the internal arrangement of the card company and the airline frequent traveller program, convert these to mileage points. Some cards may even give card holders free upgrades in their hotel accommodation.

Travel credit cards were not exclusively created for frequent fliers. Even those who only dream of going places are welcome to use them, although they may not feel nor appreciate the benefits as much as those who belong in the target market. Non travellers can use these cards and, when the time is right, cash in on the points they have accumulated through the years.

There are many travel credit cards in the market and it is difficult to choose one based on hear-say or on gut feel. You have to evaluate the individual offers, determine which one best suits your lifestyle and your travel patterns. You should also try to see which card has existing tie ups with affiliates (hotels, restaurants, boutiques) you frequent. This allows you to maximize the benefits these cards offer. If you don't want to be burdened with several brochures from different banks, you can do your research on line. There are several websites that list down the travel cards available in the market and, alongside each card, are some basic information, their promotions, and a summary of their benefits. This brief yet concise format makes comparing cards easier for the consumer.