Expert's Rating:
Airline credit cards helped pioneer perks and rewards, back when you still felt like dressing up to climb into your cross-country coach seat. The recent merger between United and Continental has produced a rewards credit card that brings back many of the perks we used to associate with air travel. A middle-of-the-road APR means this card probably won't be the one you use to park a balance. However, road warriors will appreciate the creature comforts and bonus opportunities Chase has packed into this account.
Reward details
United MileagePlus Explorer lavishes cardholders with benefits that now cost less brand-conscious travelers hundreds of dollars per flight. While other airline credit cards promise to reimburse a fixed amount of luggage fees per year, United MileagePlus Explorer promises a free checked bag for up to two people on each itinerary. Having dropped off your heavy luggage, you can stretch out in United's airport lounge with two free day passes. Cardholders also enjoy priority boarding, ensuring easy access to overhead bins. Chase and United waive the first year's annual fee, which also covers some significantly upgraded travel insurance programs.
Should you switch?
Do you already have an airline credit card or another account with travel perks? Would you consider shifting most of your family's personal air travel to United, just so you can maximize perks? 40,000 reward points may sound like a tantalizing bonus, but that reward requires at least one year with the card and a $25,000 annual spend. If United flight attendants recognize you the moment you board their flights, this card's a good fit. Otherwise, you may want to consider a travel rewards credit card with more flexibility.
Reward details
United MileagePlus Explorer lavishes cardholders with benefits that now cost less brand-conscious travelers hundreds of dollars per flight. While other airline credit cards promise to reimburse a fixed amount of luggage fees per year, United MileagePlus Explorer promises a free checked bag for up to two people on each itinerary. Having dropped off your heavy luggage, you can stretch out in United's airport lounge with two free day passes. Cardholders also enjoy priority boarding, ensuring easy access to overhead bins. Chase and United waive the first year's annual fee, which also covers some significantly upgraded travel insurance programs.
Should you switch?
Do you already have an airline credit card or another account with travel perks? Would you consider shifting most of your family's personal air travel to United, just so you can maximize perks? 40,000 reward points may sound like a tantalizing bonus, but that reward requires at least one year with the card and a $25,000 annual spend. If United flight attendants recognize you the moment you board their flights, this card's a good fit. Otherwise, you may want to consider a travel rewards credit card with more flexibility.
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