United Airlines, a global airline that serves every continent except Antarctica, has garnered a large following over the years. Many of its loyal customers seek a suitable credit card to enhance their travel experience, and the United Explorer Credit Card has emerged as a compelling option.
In a sea of travel cards, does this credit card truly stand out? This review will examine the United Explorer Credit Card’s features, fees, and perks to determine if it is a valuable addition to your wallet.
TIME’s Take
The United Explorer Credit Card is an excellent choice, especially for frequent United flyers. However, even if you only fly United occasionally, this card still offers enticing benefits. With two annual one-time United Club passes, which can offset the annual fee, and the ability to earn 2x miles on United flights, hotel stays, and dining, there is substantial value to be gained. Don’t let the lower annual fee fool you—this card packs a punch.
Who is the card for?
The United Explorer Credit Card is designed for anyone who wants to maximize its benefits. With 2x miles on purchases from United, as well as on dining and hotel expenses, you can rapidly accumulate MileagePlus miles. Additionally, the card offers several perks tailored to frequent flyers, making it a strong contender for anyone who flies with United, even occasionally.
Rewards structure
This credit card boasts a straightforward rewards structure. You earn 2x miles on all eligible purchases within the specified bonus categories, as listed 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.
While you cannot transfer these points to other programs, United has an extensive network of travel partners to help you reach your desired destinations.
Fine print
Interest rates
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Fees
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Additional hidden perks
This credit card offers several hidden perks that significantly elevate its value:
- First checked bag free: You and a companion on the same reservation can each check your first bag for free (up to $35 value), resulting in a potential savings of up to $70 per round trip.
- 25% back on in-flight purchases: Receive a 25% statement credit for all in-flight purchases of food, beverages, or Wi-Fi when paid for with the Explorer card.
- Up to $100 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck®, or NEXUS fee credit: Enjoy coverage of the fee for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS every four years, with a maximum value of $100.
- Priority boarding: The primary cardmember and travel companions on the same reservation can board United-operated flights before general boarding.
- No foreign transaction fees: Make international purchases with your Explorer card without incurring additional transaction fees.
Alternatives
Several credit cards offer viable alternatives to the United Explorer Credit Card. Here are two notable choices:
United Explorer Credit Card vs. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is an excellent option if you prefer a card that is not tied to a specific loyalty program. It earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points, which can be transferred to Chase’s travel partners, including United. The Sapphire Preferred shares the same annual fee as the Explorer card (although not waived for the first year) and offers TSA PreCheck/Global Entry coverage. It also includes Priority Pass for lounge access at select airports. If you rarely or never fly United, the Sapphire Preferred is a better choice. However, for those who occasionally fly United, the Explorer Card holds more allure.
United Explorer Credit Card vs. United Club® Infinite Card
If you are a frequent flyer who primarily chooses United, the United Club Infinite Card may be worth considering. With a higher annual fee and a more generous welcome offer, this card provides a United Club membership valued at up to $650 annually. You also earn 4x miles on United purchases and receive additional benefits such as IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status. The United Club Infinite Card offers unparalleled perks, but the question is whether you can fully leverage them to justify the higher annual fee.
United Explorer Credit Card vs. Capital One® Venture® Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is another travel card that presents a viable alternative to the Explorer Card. It offers 2x miles on all purchases and comes with a similar annual fee. Additionally, the Venture card provides access to Capital One lounges and allows you to transfer miles to a variety of travel partners. While it lacks some of the United-specific perks, the Venture Card’s universal earning potential makes it an attractive option for those who want flexibility in their travel rewards.
Useful perks that could be worth the fee
For individuals who fly United at least a few times a year, the United Explorer Credit Card is a valuable addition to their wallets. With a generous welcome bonus, 2x miles on United purchases, dining, and hotel expenses, as well as enticing perks like priority boarding, free checked bags, United Club passes, and 25% cash back on in-flight purchases, this card delivers exceptional value. Although it carries a $95 annual fee, the perks easily outweigh the cost, especially since the fee is waived for the first year.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Is the United MileagePlus Explorer hard to get?
Applicants should have a credit score of at least good to excellent (670-850) to increase their approval odds. It is worth noting that Chase adheres to the 5/24 rule, meaning it may not approve customers who have opened five or more credit cards with any issuers in the past 24 months.
What is the credit limit?
Typically, the credit limit for this card ranges from $5,000 to $20,000. However, the actual credit limit granted is contingent on the applicant’s creditworthiness, as determined by Chase.
Does it cover the TSA PreCheck fee?
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.