Chase Sapphire Preferred Card: Best Travel Rewards Credit Card in the USA
If you’re looking for a credit card that maximizes your travel rewards while offering great perks, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is often considered one of the best options available in the United States. This card combines a generous sign-up bonus, flexible redemption options, and strong travel protections that make it a favorite among frequent travelers.
Key Features of the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
- Sign-up Bonus: Earn a substantial bonus after spending a minimum amount in the first few months. For example, currently, you can earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months.
- Rewards Rate: 2X points on travel and dining worldwide, 1X point on all other purchases.
- Points Redemption: Points are worth 25% more when redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
- No foreign transaction fees: Ideal for international travel.
- Travel Protections: Includes trip cancellation/interruption insurance, primary rental car insurance, and purchase protection.
- Annual Fee: $95, which is considered reasonable for the value offered.
Why Choose Chase Sapphire Preferred for Travel?
The card’s flexible point system allows you to transfer points to a variety of airline and hotel partners such as United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Hyatt, and Marriott at a 1:1 ratio. This flexibility can unlock outsized value compared to traditional cashback cards.
Additionally, the 25% bonus when booking travel through the Chase portal means your points go further, effectively increasing your rewards rate.
For frequent diners and travelers, earning 2X points on these categories helps build rewards faster.
Comparing to Other Travel Credit Cards
Compared to premium cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, the Preferred has a lower annual fee and still offers strong travel benefits, making it ideal for those who want value without paying a hefty yearly cost.
For newcomers to travel credit cards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred offers a solid balance of perks, rewards, and affordability.
Tips to Maximize Your Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
- Use your card for dining and travel expenses to maximize the 2X points rewards.
- Book travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal to get 25% more value per point.
- Transfer points strategically to airline or hotel partners for premium flights or stays.
- Pay your balance in full every month to avoid interest charges.
Who Should Apply?
The Chase Sapphire Preferred is perfect for:
- Travel enthusiasts looking for flexibility and strong rewards
- People who dine out frequently and want to earn points
- Those who want comprehensive travel insurance benefits
- Individuals comfortable with a $95 annual fee
Conclusion
If your goal is to earn valuable travel rewards while enjoying flexible redemption options and robust travel protections, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is an excellent choice. With a generous sign-up bonus and ongoing rewards, it helps you get more from every dollar spent on travel and dining.
