Singapore to Shanghai: Best Travel Credit Cards

Traveling from Singapore to Shanghai is an exciting journey filled with cultural experiences, delicious food, and stunning sights. Whether you're exploring the futuristic skyline of Pudong or strolling through the historic Bund, having the right travel credit card can make your trip smoother and more rewarding. From earning miles to avoiding foreign transaction fees, here’s a guide to the best travel credit cards for your Singapore-Shanghai adventure.

Why You Need a Travel Credit Card for Your Trip

Travel credit cards offer perks that standard cards don’t, such as:
- No foreign transaction fees – Save on unnecessary charges when spending abroad.
- Airline miles and rewards – Earn points for flights, hotels, and more.
- Travel insurance – Coverage for delays, lost luggage, or medical emergencies.
- Airport lounge access – Relax before your flight with complimentary lounge visits.
- Exclusive discounts – Enjoy deals on hotels, tours, and dining.

For frequent travelers, these benefits can add up to significant savings and a more comfortable journey.

Top Travel Credit Cards for Singapore to Shanghai

1. Citi PremierMiles Card

Best for: Earning air miles quickly

The Citi PremierMiles Card is a favorite among travelers for its generous rewards program.

Key Features:

• Earn 1.2 miles for every S$1 spent locally and 2 miles for every S$1 spent overseas.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• Complimentary travel insurance when you book flights with the card.
• Airport lounge access via Priority Pass (with a fee).

Why It’s Great for Shanghai:
Shanghai is a city where you’ll be spending on dining, shopping, and attractions. The double miles on overseas spending help you rack up rewards faster for future trips.

2. DBS Altitude Visa Signature

Best for: Flexible redemption options

If you prefer flexibility in how you use your rewards, the DBS Altitude Visa Signature is a strong contender.

Key Features:

• Earn 1.2 miles per S$1 spent locally and 2 miles per S$1 overseas.
• Miles never expire as long as the card is active.
• Complimentary travel insurance and concierge services.
• Discounts on Agoda and Expedia bookings.

Why It’s Great for Shanghai:
The ability to transfer miles to multiple airline partners (like KrisFlyer and Asia Miles) gives you more options for booking flights to and from Shanghai.

3. American Express KrisFlyer Credit Card

Best for: Singapore Airlines loyalists

If you frequently fly with Singapore Airlines or its partners, this card is a must-have.

Key Features:

• Earn 1.1 KrisFlyer miles per S$1 spent.
• Bonus miles on Singapore Airlines, Scoot, and KrisShop purchases.
• Complimentary travel insurance.
• Exclusive KrisFlyer promotions.

Why It’s Great for Shanghai:
Singapore Airlines offers multiple daily flights to Shanghai, making it easy to redeem your KrisFlyer miles for this route.

4. UOB PRVI Miles Card

Best for: High spenders who want premium perks

The UOB PRVI Miles Card is ideal for those who want luxury travel benefits.

Key Features:

• Earn 1.4 miles per S$1 spent (local and overseas).
• Complimentary Priority Pass lounge visits (limited per year).
• Travel insurance coverage.
• Discounts on luxury hotels and dining.

Why It’s Great for Shanghai:
If you plan to indulge in high-end experiences in Shanghai (like Michelin-starred dining or luxury hotels), the extra miles and perks add value.

5. HSBC Revolution Credit Card

Best for: Contactless and online spending

For travelers who prefer cashless payments, the HSBC Revolution Credit Card is a smart choice.

Key Features:

• Earn 4 miles per S$1 on contactless and online spending.
• 1 mile per S$1 on other purchases.
• No annual fee for the first year.
• Travel and dining discounts.

Why It’s Great for Shanghai:
Shanghai is a highly digital city where mobile payments (like Alipay and WeChat Pay) dominate. The bonus miles on contactless spending make this card highly rewarding.

How to Maximize Your Travel Credit Card in Shanghai

Use Your Card for Dining and Shopping

Shanghai is a food lover’s paradise, from xiaolongbao to Peking duck. Many travel cards offer bonus miles or cashback on dining—so put those meals on your card!

Book Hotels and Flights with Your Card

Most travel cards provide extra rewards for flight and hotel bookings. Some even offer free nights or upgrades when you use points.

Take Advantage of Airport Lounge Access

After a long flight, relaxing in an airport lounge can be a game-changer. Cards like the UOB PRVI Miles and Citi PremierMiles offer lounge access to make your journey more comfortable.

Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees

Always check if your card waives foreign transaction fees—this can save you up to 3% on every purchase abroad.

Final Tips Before You Fly

• Notify Your Bank – Prevent your card from being blocked for "suspicious activity" while abroad.
• Carry a Backup Card – In case of loss or theft, having a second card is wise.
• Check Expiry Dates – Ensure your travel insurance and lounge access benefits are still valid.

With the right travel credit card, your Singapore to Shanghai trip can be more rewarding, comfortable, and cost-effective. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a leisure traveler, these cards help you make the most of every dollar spent. Safe travels!