Who doesn’t love a good adventure? But let’s be real, traveling can be expensive. Between flights, hotels, and activities, it can all add up quickly. That’s why having a good travel credit card in your arsenal can be a game-changer. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Fear not, my fellow wanderlusts, for I am here to break down the pros and cons of three popular travel credit cards: the Chase Freedom Unlimited, Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve Card.
Chase Freedom Unlimited
Pros: No annual fee + cash back
Cons: Low rewards rate
Let’s start with the Chase Freedom Unlimited. This card is great for those who are new to the credit card game or those who want a simple, straightforward rewards program. The card has no annual fee and offers a flat 1.5% cashback on all purchases. While the rewards rate is not as high as some other cards, it’s a great option for those who want to dip their toes into the world of travel credit cards without committing to an annual fee.
Chase Sapphire Preferred
Pros: Earn 2 points/dollar on travel + dining
Cons: No extra travel credits/reimbursements
Next up is the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card. This card is perfect for those who want to earn points for travel rewards. With this card, you’ll earn 2 points per dollar spent on travel and dining and 1 point per dollar spent on everything else. The card does come with a $95 annual fee, but it’s waived for the first year. Plus, if you spend $4,000 within the first three months of opening the account, you’ll earn a 100,000-point sign-up bonus. That’s equivalent to $1,250 in travel rewards when you redeem through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal.
Chase Sapphire Reserve (best overall)
Pros: $300 annual travel credit, Priority Pass Select Membership, TSA PreCheck/Global Entry credit, 60k point sign-up bonus (with minimum spend), additional insurance/reimbursement benefits
Cons: $550 annual fee
Now, let’s talk about the crème de la crème of travel credit cards: the Chase Sapphire Reserve Card. This card is the real MVP for frequent travelers. Yes, it comes with a hefty $550 annual fee, but hear me out. You’ll earn 3 points per dollar spent on travel and dining and 1 point per dollar spent on everything else. Plus, you’ll receive a $300 annual travel credit that automatically applies to any travel-related purchases you make with the card. And if you spend $4,000 within the first three months of opening the account, you’ll earn a whopping 60,000-point sign-up bonus. That’s equivalent to $750 in travel rewards when redeemed through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal.
But wait, there’s more! The Chase Sapphire Reserve Card also comes with some extra perks that are sure to make any traveler giddy with excitement. Cardholders receive a complimentary Priority Pass Select membership, which grants access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide. Plus, you’ll get a statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fees (up to $100 every four years), which means you can skip the security lines at the airport. And if that’s not enough, the card also offers trip cancellation/interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance, and trip delay reimbursement.
Do you DoorDash? Well, eat your heart out because Chase Sapphire Reserve also comes with a complimentary DashPass!
How about Lyft? Chase Sapphire Reserve has you covered there too! Chase Sapphire Reserve cardmembers can get two free years of Lyft Pink All Access, valued at $199/year, with more exclusive benefits than ever
While all three of these cards have their benefits, the Chase Sapphire Reserve Card takes the cake for the ultimate travel credit card. The rewards rate is unbeatable, the sign-up bonus is generous, and the extra perks are sure to make any traveler feel like a VIP. Yes, the annual fee is steep, but if you’re someone who travels frequently, the rewards and perks are worth it. Plus, if you’re like me, you’ll take any excuse to feel fancy and important at the airport. So, pack your bags, grab your Chase Sapphire Reserve Card, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
