Is the United Credit Card Worth It?
The United Credit Card, also known as the United MileagePlus Explorer, is a popular credit card offered by Chase. It’s designed for frequent travelers, especially those who are loyal to United Airlines. But is it worth signing up for? In this article, we’ll dive into the card’s benefits and features to help you make an informed decision.
First Direct Answer: Is the United Credit Card Worth It?
Before we dive into the details, here’s the short answer: yes, the United Credit Card is worth it if you value the benefits and rewards it offers. However, it’s essential to understand your credit habits and travel habits before applying for the card.
Key Features and Benefits
Here are some of the key features and benefits of the United Credit Card:
• 60,000 Bonus Miles: Apply for the card and earn 60,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 in the first three months. These miles can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and other travel perks.
• 2 Miles per Dollar: Earn 2 miles per dollar on United ticket purchases, plus 1 mile per dollar on all other purchases.
• Free Checked Bag: When you use your United Credit Card to buy your United ticket, you’ll get a free checked bag for you and one travel companion.
• Priority Boarding: Cardmembers get priority boarding on United-operated flights, which means you’ll have a better chance of getting a comfortable seat on the plane.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees: You won’t incur foreign transaction fees when making purchases overseas, which can save you a significant amount of money.
• Travel Insurance: Cardmembers get travel insurance, which includes trip cancellation, trip delay, and trip interruption insurance.
• Credit Score Tracking: Chase allows you to track your credit score for free through their Credit Journey program.
H2: Rewards and Redemption Options
The United Credit Card offers rewards in the form of miles, which can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and other travel perks. Here are some redemption options to consider:
• Flights: Redemptions start at just 12,500 miles for economy flights within the United States, making it an excellent option for frequent flyers.
• Upgrades: You can redeem miles for upgrades to Economy Plus, Premium Plus, or even business-class seats.
• Hotel Stays: You can redeem miles for free hotel stays through United’s partner network, including Hyatt, Marriott, and more.
• Car Rentals: Earn miles when renting cars through United’s partner network, including National, Avis, and more.
H2: Travel Perks and Benefits
Here are some additional travel perks and benefits offered by the United Credit Card:
• Airport Lounge Access: Cardmembers get access to United Club airport lounges, which offer complimentary snacks, drinks, and comfortable seating.
• Travel Concierge: Dedicated travel concierge services available to help with booking travel arrangements.
• Global Entry and TSA PreCheck Credit: Earn credit towards Global Entry and TSA PreCheck application fees.
Pros and Cons
Here are some key pros and cons to consider when deciding if the United Credit Card is worth it:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| • Free checked bag and priority boarding | • Annual fee: $0 intro for the first year, then $95 |
| • 2 miles per dollar on United ticket purchases | • Limited redemption options outside of United |
| • Travel insurance and trip cancellation insurance | • High bonus spending requirement for 60,000-mile bonus |
| • Credit score tracking and travel concierge services | • Limited foreign currency conversion |
Conclusion
The United Credit Card is worth considering if you’re a frequent traveler, especially if you’re loyal to United Airlines. The card offers a range of benefits, from free checked bags and priority boarding to travel insurance and trip cancellation insurance. While there are some limitations and drawbacks to consider, the rewards and redemption options make it an attractive choice for those who value flexibility and ease of travel.
Ultimately, whether the United Credit Card is worth it depends on your individual circumstances and credit habits. It’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before applying for the card to ensure you’re making the best decision for your wallet.