United Airlines, a global airline that operates on every continent except Antarctica, has cultivated a strong and loyal customer base over the years. For those frequent flyers seeking a credit card to enhance their travel experience, the United Explorer Credit Card is a clear contender.
But with the abundance of travel cards available, does this credit card truly stand out from the competition? In this review, we will analyze the features, fees, and perks of the United Explorer Credit Card, and determine whether it’s a valuable addition to your wallet.
TIME’s Take: A Must-Have for United Flyers
The United Explorer Credit Card is an excellent choice, especially for those who frequently fly with United Airlines. However, even if you only travel with United a few times a year, this card can still be a valuable asset. With two one-time United Club passes annually, you can easily offset the card’s annual fee. Additionally, the card offers 2x miles on United flights, as well as hotel and restaurant purchases, providing substantial value to cardholders.
Who is the card for?
The United Explorer Credit Card is designed for anyone looking to take full advantage of its benefits. With 2x miles on United purchases, and 2x miles on dining and hotel expenses, cardholders can rapidly accumulate MileagePlus miles. The card also offers various perks for travelers, making it an attractive option for anyone who flies with United Airlines, even occasionally.
Rewards Structure
The rewards structure of the United Explorer Credit Card is relatively straightforward. Cardholders earn 2x miles on all eligible purchases falling within its bonus categories, as outlined below. All other purchases earn 1x miles.
- Earn on purchases from United, including tickets, Economy Plus®, inflight food, beverages, and Wi-Fi.
- Earn on dining purchases, including eligible delivery services.
- Earn on hotel purchases when you book directly with the hotel.
As a branded airline credit card, the best way to redeem points is by booking United flights or utilizing seat upgrades. While points cannot be transferred to other programs, United Airlines boasts an extensive network of travel partners to help you reach your desired destinations.
Fine Print: Interest Rates and Fees
Interest Rates
- Regular APR: reg_apr,reg_apr_type
- Purchase Intro APR: intro_apr_rate,intro_apr_duration
- Balance Transfer Intro APR: balance_transfer_intro_apr,balance_transfer_intro_duration
Fees
- Annual Fee: $0 for the first year, then annual_fees
- Balance Transfer Fee: balance_transfer_fees
- Cash Advance Fee: cash_advance_fee
Additional Hidden Perks
The United Explorer Credit Card offers several hidden perks that significantly enhance its value. Here are some highlights:
- First checked bag free: Cardholders and one companion traveling on the same reservation can enjoy the benefit of a free first checked bag, worth up to $35 per bag. This equates to up to $70 in checked bags for free or $140 per round trip.
- 25% back on in-flight purchases: When you pay with the Explorer card, you earn a 25% statement credit on all in-flight purchases, including food, beverages, and Wi-Fi.
- Up to $100 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck®, or NEXUS fee credit: Every four years, the Explorer card covers the fee for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS, providing a value of up to $100.
- Priority boarding: The primary cardmember, along with their travel companions on the same reservation, can enjoy priority boarding on United-operated flights.
- No foreign transaction fees: The United Explorer Credit Card does not charge any additional transaction fees for international purchases.
Alternatives
Several credit cards emerge as viable alternatives to the United Explorer Credit Card. Let’s explore a couple of top choices:
United Explorer Credit Card vs. Chase Sapphire Preferred(R) Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred(R) Card is an excellent option for those seeking a card independent of a specific loyalty program. It earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points, which can be transferred to Chase’s travel partners, including United, Southwest Airlines, Marriott Bonvoy, World of Hyatt, and IHG. With a comparable annual fee to the Explorer card (not waived in the first year), the Sapphire Preferred also offers TSA PreCheck/Global Entry benefits. However, it lacks the Explorer card’s United-specific perks, such as priority boarding and 25% cash back on in-flight purchases. If you rarely or never fly United, the Sapphire Preferred is the superior choice. Yet, for those who occasionally fly with United, the United Explorer Credit Card is the better option.
United Explorer Credit Card vs. United Club(SM) Infinite Card
For frequent United Airlines travelers, the United Club(SM) Infinite Card offers several added advantages. With a higher annual fee, a more generous welcome offer, and a United Club membership valued at up to $650 annually, this card provides enhanced benefits. Cardholders earn 4X miles on United purchases (twice the rate of the Explorer card), as well as 2X miles on other bonus categories. Additionally, the United Club(SM) Infinite Card includes IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status and provides your first and second checked bags free. However, it is essential to evaluate whether you would utilize the United Club membership enough to justify the higher annual fee.
United Explorer Credit Card vs. Capital One(R) Venture(R) Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One(R) Venture(R) Rewards Credit Card presents another viable alternative to the Explorer Card. With 2x miles earned on all purchases and the ability to transfer miles to Capital One’s travel partners, this general travel card offers flexibility. The Venture card carries an identical annual fee to the Explorer Card (not waived in the first year) and includes access to Capital One lounges. However, with only two free lounge visits per year, it lacks the extended lounge benefits of the Explorer card. It’s worth noting that while the Venture Card offers various travel perks, it does not provide the same level of exclusive treatment during United flights as a branded airline card.
Useful Perks that Justify the Annual Fee
For individuals who fly United Airlines at least a couple of times a year, the United Explorer Credit Card is well worth inclusion in their wallets. With a generous welcome bonus, 2x miles earned on United purchases, dining, and hotel expenses, as well as attractive perks like priority boarding, free checked bags, United Club passes, and 25% cash back on in-flight purchases, the card’s benefits easily offset the annual fee (waived for the first year).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the United MileagePlus Explorer hard to get?
To increase your approval odds for the United Explorer Credit Card, it is advisable to have a credit score ranging from good to excellent (670-850). Additionally, note that Chase adheres to the 5/24 rule, meaning they do not approve customers who have opened five or more credit cards with any issuers within the past 24 months.
What is the credit limit?
The credit limit for the United Explorer Credit Card typically ranges between $5,000 and $20,000. However, the actual credit limit granted will depend on your creditworthiness as determined by Chase.
Does it cover TSA PreCheck?
Yes, the United Explorer Credit Card covers the fee for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS every four years.
APR current as of Mar 31, 2023. APR fluctuates based on interest rates and your credit score. Check with your credit card provider for the latest APR.
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