Craig Joseph

Lead Writer | Credit cards, Travel rewards, Personal finance

Craig Joseph is a NerdWallet credit cards and travel rewards expert. He has degrees in geology from West Virginia University and oceanography from Oregon State University and has published in academic journals, newspapers and blogs. Craig is passionate about personal finance and wants to enhance the financial literacy of everyone he meets. He'll probably also try to convince you why rocks are cool.

Education: B.S. in geology from West Virginia University, M.S. in oceanography from Oregon State University
Previous experience: Writer/Editor at US Credit Card Guide, Freelance personal finance writer

Craig's picks

The Secret to Optimizing Credit Card Rewards? Be Disloyal

by Claire Tsosie

As long as you can stay on top of multiple accounts without getting overwhelmed, brand disloyalty can help you.

How to Get Rich

by Arielle O'Shea

The key to becoming rich is twofold: You have to earn more money and spend less than you earn.

How to Make the Most of Rewards Credit Cards

by Anisha Sekar, Kimberly Palmer

It starts with getting the right one and using it, responsibly, for all purchases. It's also key to know your card's benefits.

The latest from Craig

26 Travel Deals for Black Friday and Travel Tuesday in 2024

Travelers can find discounted hotel, flight and cruise deals between now and the end of Cyber Week.

Capital One Lounge Dulles Review: Modern Vibe with Grab-and-Go Food

With hot and to-go food options, the Capital One Lounge is as good as it gets at Dulles.

Holiday Airfare Is Down. Why Isn’t Travel Spending?

Higher hotel prices and a desire for comfort have travelers spending more than ever this holiday season.

2025 Alaska Mileage Plan Changes: Easier Path to Elite Status, New Milestone Perks

In 2025, Mileage Plan members will earn milestone rewards and elite qualifying miles on award flights.

Global Entry Spotter Review: Easily Find Global Entry Appointments

Global Entry Spotter can help expedite your TSA Preferred Passenger application timeline for a small fee.

Smart Money Podcast — The Best Ways to Use Credit and Debit Cards When Traveling Abroad

Learn how to optimize debit and credit cards abroad, avoid fees, and maximize rewards for stress-free international travel.

3 Pickleball Travel Destinations to Dink Away From Home

Here’s where to take advantage of your interest in both travel and pickleball.

How To Score In-Demand Hotels During College Football Weekends

These tips can help you snag a hotel room and save money during busy game day weekends.

PointsYeah Award Search Review: A Great Tool for Points Collectors

With both a free and paid version and the ability to search for airline and hotel award availability, PointsYeah is one of the most valuable award-search tools out there.

Bilt Rewards Mobile App Review

The Bilt Rewards mobile app provides intuitive access to your card and rewards accounts, including travel redemptions.

Chase Improving Credit Card Travel and Purchase Protection Benefits

AmEx Gold Card Hikes Annual Fee and Bonus, Adds Perks

5 Things to Know About the PNC Cash Unlimited Card

A high 2% rewards rate, a 0% intro APR period and a big sign-up bonus put the card near the top for flat-rate cash back — if you're eligible to apply.

IHG Credit Cards Boost Bonuses Significantly [Limited Time]

Verizon Credit Card Making Changes to Its Reward Rates

You'll soon earn a higher rate on dining, but less when you pay your monthly Verizon bill.