If you’re on the hunt for a travel credit card that seamlessly blends flexibility, reliability, and rewarding benefits, the Discover it® Miles card could be exactly what you need. Designed to help you turn everyday purchases into unforgettable travel experiences, this card offers a straightforward yet highly rewarding structure.

One of its biggest highlights? No annual fee—so you can maximize your travel savings without worrying about extra costs. Every dollar you spend earns you unlimited 1.5x Miles, meaning your routine expenses bring you closer to your next trip, whether it’s a quick weekend escape or a bucket-list international adventure.

And here’s the real game-changer: at the end of your first year, Discover will match all the Miles you’ve earned, effectively doubling your rewards with zero effort on your part. It’s a rare perk that amplifies your travel benefits without requiring extra spending.

No complicated redemption process, no blackout dates—just a simple and rewarding way to make the most of your purchases. Whether you’re an occasional traveler or a frequent flyer, the Discover it® Miles card ensures that earning and using rewards is as effortless as your next boarding pass scan.

Key details about the Discover it® Miles credit card

How does the annual fee work?

One of the biggest advantages of the Discover it® Miles card is that it comes with no annual fee. Many travel credit cards charge a yearly fee just for the privilege of using them, but with this card, you get all the rewards without any additional cost.

This means more money in your pocket to put toward flights, hotels, or any other travel expenses. No annual fees also make it easier to maximize your savings while still enjoying top-tier rewards. The lack of an annual fee makes this card an attractive option for those who want a low-maintenance travel rewards card without worrying about extra expenses cutting into their benefits.

How is the credit limit determined?

Your credit limit with Discover is based on several factors, including your credit score, income, and overall financial history. When you apply, Discover evaluates these elements to determine your initial limit. Over time, responsible card usage, such as making payments on time and keeping a low balance, could lead to an increase in your credit limit.

If you want a higher limit, you may also be able to request an increase after demonstrating responsible credit behavior. Having a higher limit not only increases your purchasing power but can also positively impact your credit utilization ratio, a key factor in determining your credit score.

Advantages of the Discover it® Miles credit card

The Discover it® Miles card offers numerous benefits that make it a strong contender in the travel credit card market. Here are some of the most compelling reasons to choose it:

• Earn 1.5x Miles on every purchase – No need to track spending categories. Every dollar you spend earns unlimited 1.5x Miles.
• Mile-for-Mile Match at the end of your first year – Discover automatically doubles your earned Miles, making this a lucrative option for frequent travelers.
• No blackout dates – Use your Miles to book travel whenever and however you want, ensuring complete flexibility.
• Flexible redemption options – Redeem for travel purchases, convert Miles into cash, or use them at checkout with Amazon.com and PayPal.
• Miles never expire – Use them now or save them for your dream vacation.
• 99% nationwide acceptance – Discover is accepted at almost all U.S. locations that take credit cards.
• No foreign transaction fees – Use your card abroad without worrying about extra costs.
• Free FICO® credit score access – Keep track of your credit score through Discover’s Credit Scorecard.
• Security features – Discover offers fraud monitoring and the ability to freeze your card instantly if needed.
• Online privacy protection – Helps remove personal data from select people-search websites to enhance privacy.

Standout benefit: Mile-for-Mile Match

The Mile-for-Mile Match feature is what sets the Discover it® Miles card apart from its competitors. At the end of your first year, Discover matches every single Mile you’ve earned. So if you’ve accumulated 35,000 Miles, Discover will double it to 70,000 Miles, which is worth $700 toward travel.

Unlike many other cards that offer a one-time sign-up bonus with spending requirements, this benefit applies no matter how much you spend—making it one of the most valuable first-year offers in the industry.

Disadvantages

While the Discover it® Miles card has many perks, there are some potential downsides:

• No luxury travel perks – Unlike some premium travel cards, this one doesn’t offer airport lounge access or complimentary hotel elite status.
• Limited international acceptance – While Discover is widely accepted in the U.S., it may not be as widely recognized abroad compared to Visa or Mastercard.
• No airline or hotel transfer partners – You can’t transfer your Miles to airline or hotel loyalty programs.
• Higher rewards elsewhere for travel spending – Some other travel cards offer higher reward rates specifically for travel-related purchases.

Standout drawback: Limited international acceptance

Although Discover is accepted by 99% of places in the U.S. that take credit cards, international travelers may find that some merchants abroad don’t accept Discover as readily as Visa or Mastercard. If you’re traveling overseas, it’s a good idea to carry a backup card just in case.

Who can apply for the Discover it® Miles card?

To be eligible for the Discover it® Miles card, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old (or 21 in some states)
• Have a valid Social Security number
• Maintain a good to excellent credit score (typically 670 or higher)
• Have a steady source of income
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident

How to apply for the Discover it® Miles card

Applying for the Discover it® Miles card is simple and can be done through multiple channels:

Applying online

• Visit the Discover website.
• Click on Apply Now and fill out the online application with your personal and financial details.
• Submit your application and wait for a decision—many applicants receive an instant response.

Applying via the Discover app

• Download the Discover mobile app from the App Store or Google Play.
• Navigate to the credit card section and select the Discover it® Miles.
• Complete the application form and submit.

Applying in-person

Discover does not operate physical branches, so applications must be completed online or via the app. However, you can contact Discover’s customer service for assistance if needed.