As a frequent traveler, having a credit card that offers great travel rewards is essential. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose which one is best for you. The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is a top contender in the travel rewards credit card market, offering a range of benefits that make it stand out from the competition. In this post, we’ll explore the top reasons why the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card should be at the top of your list for travel cards in 2023.
Sign-Up Bonus
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card offers one of the best sign-up bonuses in the market. After spending $4,000 in the first three months of opening your account, you’ll earn 60,000, 80,000 or 100,000 bonus points depending on the promotion available to you. These points can be redeemed for up to $1,250 in travel rewards when you book through the Chase Ultimate Rewards program. This sign-up bonus alone can cover a round-trip flight or a few nights in a luxury hotel, making it an excellent value for travelers.
Furthermore, the card offers an additional 10,000 bonus points when you add an authorized user and they make a purchase within the first three months.
If you’re planning a big trip in 2023, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card sign-up bonus can help you get there faster and with less out-of-pocket expense.
Travel Rewards
One of the biggest benefits of the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is the travel rewards it offers. Cardholders earn two points per dollar spent on dining and travel purchases, and one point per dollar spent on all other purchases.
The card also offers a 25% bonus when you redeem your points for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards program, meaning your points are worth more when used for travel.
Additionally, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card has no foreign transaction fees, making it an excellent choice for international travel.
Flexibility
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card offers a great deal of flexibility when it comes to using your rewards. Points can be redeemed for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards program, but they can also be transferred to a variety of airline and hotel loyalty programs at a 1:1 ratio.
This means you can use your points to book flights or hotel stays directly through your preferred loyalty program, giving you more options and the ability to maximize the value of your rewards.
Furthermore, there are no blackout dates or restrictions when redeeming your points, making it easy to use them when and where you want.
Travel Benefits
In addition to the travel rewards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card offers a range of travel benefits. Cardholders have access to a 24/7 concierge service that can assist with everything from travel planning to restaurant reservations.
The card also offers primary rental car insurance, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, and baggage delay insurance, providing peace of mind when traveling.
Lastly, the card provides access to exclusive events and experiences through the Chase Sapphire Lounge program.
Annual Fee
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card has an annual fee of $95, which is relatively low for a travel rewards credit card. When you consider the value of the sign-up bonus, travel rewards, and travel benefits, the annual fee is well worth it for frequent travelers.
Furthermore, the card offers additional value through its referral program, which allows you to earn bonus points for referring friends and family to the card.
Credit Score Requirements
To be approved for the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, you’ll need a good to excellent credit score (usually around 670 or higher). If you don’t have a strong credit score, it may be worth working on improving it before applying for the card.
Additionally, Chase has a 5/24 rule, which means you won’t be approved for the card if you’ve opened five or more credit cards in the past 24 months.
Mobile App
The Chase mobile app is user-friendly and allows you to manage your account, track your rewards, and redeem your points for travel on the go. You can also use the app to set up account alerts and make payments.
Furthermore, the app offers fraud alerts and the ability to lock and unlock your card if it’s lost or stolen.
Customer Service
Chase has a reputation for excellent customer service, and the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is no exception. The 24/7 customer service is responsive and helpful, and the concierge service can assist with all aspects of travel planning.
If you have any issues or questions about your account, you can easily reach the customer service team through the mobile app, online chat, or by phone.
Alternatives
While the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is an excellent choice for travelers, there are other options worth considering. The Chase Sapphire Reserve Card offers even more travel benefits, but has a higher annual fee of $550.
If you’re loyal to a specific airline or hotel chain, it may be worth considering a co-branded credit card that offers perks and rewards specific to that company.
Ultimately, the best travel card for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Section 10: Final thoughts
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is a top travel rewards credit card that offers a range of benefits for frequent travelers. With a generous sign-up bonus, excellent travel rewards, and a low annual fee, it’s a great choice for anyone looking to earn and redeem travel rewards.
Whether you’re planning a big trip in 2023 or just looking for a card that offers great rewards for everyday spending, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is definitely worth considering.