United Airlines has a wide-reaching flight network, with more than 21,000 flights per day in more than 190 countries. Loyalists of a particular airline looking for airline-specific benefits, however, are well suited with cards like the United Explorer. If racking up the most miles is your goal, you might be better off opting for one of these general travel cards.
#Xplorer rewards free#
In general, generic rewards cards offer better earning rates on common purchases – but sacrifice airline perks like priority boarding or a free checked bag. The United Explorer ranks above many popular airline cards, but below travel cards that are not tied to a specific airline. In terms of the value of the rewards you earn per dollar of spending (factoring in the average mile value and earning rate), the Explorer can outpace alternatives from airlines with a higher point value – such as the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card. On the flip side, the United Explorer card boasts a better earning rate than many airline co-branded cards, ensuring it is still a competitive player in the category. For example, we value Southwest Rapid Rewards points at around 1.6 cents per point. Unfortunately, it is not the highest value among frequent flyer programs. We estimate United miles are worth 1.1 cents on average, which is higher than the average rewards program mile. Since many airline cards only award bonus points on purchases with the airline (or occasionally other travel purchases), United Explorer cardholders might have an easier time racking up rewards – even when they don’t have a trip planned. What really sets the United Explorer card apart is its good rate on dining, which helps even less frequent travelers earn a significant number of miles. See Related: 12 ways to earn more United Airlines miles All other purchases earn 1 mile per dollar. In addition to earning 2 miles per dollar on United purchases, you’ll earn 2 miles per dollar on hotel and restaurant purchases. With the United Explorer card, earning miles is straightforward. Not only will this make your trip more comfortable, but you’ll save on snacks and beverages in the airport. With this lounge access, you can enjoy perks such as free food and drinks, complimentary Wi-Fi and comfortable workspaces. Chase values this perk at more than $100, which more than offsets the card’s annual fee. However, cardholders do earn two one-time passes to the United Club every year. Unfortunately, the United Explorer card does not offer a miles bonus on your cardmember anniversary – like with many other airline cards. However, if you’re not in a rush, it may be worth waiting to see if the card’s bonus increases in the near future. The United Explorer card bonus typically fluctuates between 40,000 and 60,000 miles, so if you’ve been debating getting a United card and are looking for a large influx of miles, now is a fine time to apply. Based on Bankrate’s latest airline mile valuations, we estimate 50,000 United miles are worth around $550 in United airfare (based on our an average United mile value of 1.1 cents per mile). Despite this drop, the offer is still fairly valuable. The card is now offering a 50,000-mile sign-up bonus after spending $3,000 in the first three months, whereas it previously offered 60,000 miles with the same spending requirement.
The United Explorer card recently updated its sign-up bonus, and it’s a small step down from the card’s previous offer. Plus, you’ll enjoy a few extra benefits that will add some luxury to your vacation – like priority boarding and two passes to the United Club each year. With a relatively generous sign-up bonus and a good earning rate that rewards everyday purchases, you can stockpile miles easily – for a modest annual fee.
United Explorer Card Review: More Detailsįor frequent flyers of United Airlines, the United Explorer Card provides a fast track to your next free flight.
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