What To Know
- If you fly United Airlines frequently, a United Airlines credit card can be worth it for the mileage accumulation, complimentary upgrades, and free checked bags.
- If you only fly United Airlines occasionally, a United Airlines credit card may not be worth the annual fee for infrequent perks.
- If you spend a significant amount of money on travel and other expenses, a United Airlines credit card with high mileage earning potential can be a valuable investment.
Frequent travelers and United Airlines enthusiasts often wonder, “Is United Airlines credit card worth it?” With its various offerings and perks, this question warrants a comprehensive analysis. In this blog, we’ll delve into the benefits, drawbacks, and value proposition of United Airlines credit cards to help you make an informed decision.
Benefits of United Airlines Credit Cards
1. Mileage Accumulation
United Airlines credit cards offer generous opportunities to earn miles on purchases. From everyday spending to airfare and hotel bookings, you can accumulate miles that can be redeemed for free flights, upgrades, and other rewards.
2. Complimentary Upgrades
Select United Airlines credit cards, such as the United Club℠ Infinite Card, grant cardholders complimentary upgrades to premium cabins based on elite status and availability. This perk can significantly enhance your travel experience.
3. Free Checked Bags
Most United Airlines credit cards provide free checked bags for the cardholder and up to four companions on the same reservation. This can save you hundreds of dollars in checked baggage fees.
4. Priority Boarding
As a United Airlines credit cardholder, you’ll enjoy priority boarding, allowing you to board the plane early and secure your preferred seat.
5. Airport Lounge Access
Higher-tier United Airlines credit cards, like the United Club℠ Infinite Card, offer access to United Club℠ Lounges. These lounges provide a comfortable and convenient space to relax, work, or grab a bite before your flight.
Drawbacks of United Airlines Credit Cards
1. Annual Fees
Some United Airlines credit cards have annual fees that can range from $95 to $525. These fees can offset the value of the perks if you don’t use the card frequently.
2. Limited Redemption Options
While United Airlines miles can be redeemed for a variety of rewards, some popular destinations and travel partners may have limited availability.
3. High Interest Rates
United Airlines credit cards typically have high interest rates on unpaid balances. If you carry a balance, the interest charges can quickly outweigh the benefits of the card.
Is United Airlines Credit Card Worth It?
The value of a United Airlines credit card depends on your individual travel habits and financial situation. Here are some factors to consider:
- Frequent United Airlines Traveler: If you fly United Airlines frequently, a United Airlines credit card can be worth it for the mileage accumulation, complimentary upgrades, and free checked bags.
- Infrequent Traveler: If you only fly United Airlines occasionally, a United Airlines credit card may not be worth the annual fee for infrequent perks.
- High Spender: If you spend a significant amount of money on travel and other expenses, a United Airlines credit card with high mileage earning potential can be a valuable investment.
- Annual Fee Sensitivity: If you’re sensitive to annual fees, consider United Airlines credit cards with lower or no annual fees.
Which United Airlines Credit Card is Right for You?
United Airlines offers a range of credit cards tailored to different needs and budgets:
- United Gateway℠ Card: No annual fee, basic mileage earning
- United℠ Explorer Card: $95 annual fee, 2x miles on United purchases
- United Club℠ Card: $525 annual fee, complimentary upgrades, United Club lounge access
- United Club℠ Infinite Card: $525 annual fee, priority boarding, Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit
Other Considerations
- Cardholder Perks: Some United Airlines credit cards offer additional perks, such as car rental discounts, hotel elite status, and dining rewards.
- Elite Status: If you’re a United Airlines elite member, credit cards can help you maintain or enhance your status.
- Alternative Mileage-Earning Options: Consider using United MileagePlus X app or partnering credit cards to earn miles without paying an annual fee.
The Bottom Line: Making an Informed Decision
Ultimately, whether a United Airlines credit card is worth it depends on your specific travel patterns, financial situation, and preferences. By carefully weighing the benefits, drawbacks, and other considerations discussed in this blog, you can make an informed decision that maximizes the value of your travel expenses.
What You Need to Learn
1. How do I earn miles with a United Airlines credit card?
You can earn miles on purchases, United Airlines flights, hotel bookings, and other eligible expenses.
2. What can I redeem United Airlines miles for?
Miles can be redeemed for free flights, upgrades, hotel stays, rental cars, and other travel-related rewards.
3. Do United Airlines credit cards offer any other perks besides mileage earning?
Yes, some cards offer perks such as free checked bags, priority boarding, airport lounge access, and dining rewards.
4. What is the annual fee for a United Airlines credit card?
Annual fees vary depending on the card, ranging from $0 to $525.
5. How do I choose the right United Airlines credit card for me?
Consider your travel habits, spending patterns, and budget to select the card that best meets your needs.
