Travel credit cards offer some of the most valuable rewards in the industry, often providing 3-5x points on travel purchases. But which purchases actually qualify? This comprehensive guide breaks down every travel-related MCC code you need to know.
Airline MCC Codes (3000-3299)
Airlines have their own dedicated MCC range. Major carriers have unique codes, while smaller airlines use a generic airline MCC.
Popular Airline MCCs
What Counts as "Airline" Purchases
When you purchase directly from an airline, these transactions typically use the airline's MCC:
- Flight tickets
- Seat upgrades
- Checked baggage fees
- In-flight purchases
- Airline lounge access (when purchased directly)
- Travel insurance from the airline
Hotel MCC Codes (3500-3999)
Like airlines, major hotel chains have their own dedicated MCCs:
Short-Term Rentals: Airbnb and VRBO
Short-term rental platforms typically code as:
- Airbnb: Usually MCC 7011 (Lodging)
- VRBO: Usually MCC 7011 (Lodging)
- Booking.com: Usually MCC 7011 (Lodging) or the hotel's specific MCC
Car Rental MCC Codes (3300-3499)
Car rental companies also have dedicated MCCs:
Other Travel-Related MCCs
Ride-Sharing Apps: Do They Count as Travel?
Uber, Lyft, and Grab typically use MCC 4121 (Taxicabs and Limousines). Whether this counts as "travel" depends on your credit card:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred/Reserve: Yes, includes taxis and rideshare
- Capital One Venture X: Yes, includes ground transportation
- Amex Platinum: Only when booked through Amex Travel portal
What Doesn't Count as Travel
Be careful—these common travel-adjacent purchases often don't earn travel bonuses:
- Travel insurance from third parties: Usually insurance MCC (6300)
- Airport parking at private lots: May code as parking (7523) not airline
- Tourist attractions: Usually recreation (7999) or attractions (7991)
- Gas during road trips: Gas station MCC (5541)
- Food during travel: Restaurant MCC (5812)
Booking Directly vs. Travel Portals
How you book can affect the MCC:
- Direct from airline/hotel: Uses their specific MCC
- Expedia/Booking.com: Usually MCC 4722 (Travel Agency)
- Card portal (Chase Travel): Usually earns portal bonuses regardless of MCC
- Google Flights (redirect): Uses the airline's MCC