UMVA has learned that a top credit card for travelers has just gotten a major refresh, making it an even more attractive option for those looking to rack up points and miles.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card has been a staple in the rewards credit card world for over 16 years, and its latest update has only added to its value, with a low $95 annual fee and a generous 100,000-point welcome bonus for new cardholders who spend $5,000 in the first three months.
Earning that bonus is easier than you think, as everyday expenses like groceries, gas, and utility bills can all count towards the spending requirement, and with a value of over $2,000 based on current valuations, it's a great way to kickstart your points and miles journey.
What makes the Chase Sapphire Preferred especially beginner-friendly is the ease of use of its points, which can be redeemed for up to $1,500 in flights and hotels via Chase Travel, or transferred to one of 14 airline or hotel partners, including United MileagePlus, JetBlue TrueBlue, and World of Hyatt.
The card's annual fee is low, and it has lots of valuable perks, including a $100 annual Chase Travel hotel credit, an application fee credit worth up to $120 for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, and complimentary Apple TV and Apple Music subscriptions for one year.
The Sapphire Preferred also offers strong earning rates across a variety of everyday spending categories, including 5 points per dollar spent on travel booked through Chase Travel, 3 points per dollar spent on dining, and 2 points per dollar spent on all other travel.
Since these points are worth 2.05 cents each, you can get anywhere from 2.05 to 10.25 cents in value per dollar charged to the card, depending on the category you're spending in, making it a great choice for those who want to maximize their rewards earnings.
Additionally, Chase makes it easier to get approved for its credit cards when you're newer to rewards cards, and the Sapphire Preferred is a great option for those who want to start building their points and miles portfolio.
Overall, the Chase Sapphire Preferred is an excellent choice for those who want a flexible, rewarding, and affordable credit card that offers valuable points, useful travel perks, and a low annual fee.
Its enduring popularity is a testament to its value, and even 16 years after its debut, it remains one of the best entry points into the world of points and miles.
