What To Know
- The answer is a resounding yes, the United Explorer Card carries an annual fee of $95.
- The United Explorer Card offers a compelling combination of travel rewards and benefits for frequent United flyers.
- While it carries an annual fee of $95, the card’s perks can easily outweigh the cost if you maximize its earning and redemption opportunities.
If you’re considering adding the United Explorer Card to your wallet, you’re likely curious about its annual fee. The answer is a resounding yes, the United Explorer Card carries an annual fee of $95. But is this fee worth the benefits it offers? Let’s dive into the details and explore the card’s perks to help you make an informed decision.
United Explorer Card: A Gateway to Travel Rewards
The United Explorer Card is designed to elevate your travel experiences with its generous rewards program. Here’s how you can earn and redeem points:
Earning Points:
- Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United purchases, including flights, in-flight amenities, and baggage fees.
- Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases.
Redeeming Points:
- Redeem points for United flights, upgrades, and award travel.
- Use points for hotel stays, rental cars, and other travel-related expenses.
Unlocking the Benefits
Beyond its rewards program, the United Explorer Card offers a suite of valuable benefits:
Free Checked Bags:
- Enjoy up to two free checked bags on United-operated flights for you and your travel companion.
Priority Boarding:
- Board early in Group 2, ensuring you have ample time to settle in and stow your belongings.
In-Flight Discounts:
- Receive a 25% discount on in-flight food and beverage purchases.
Travel Protection:
- Get peace of mind with travel accident insurance, baggage delay insurance, and secondary auto rental collision damage waiver.
Is the Annual Fee Worth It?
Whether the annual fee is worth it ultimately depends on your travel habits and spending patterns. If you frequently fly United and make travel-related purchases, the United Explorer Card‘s rewards and benefits can easily offset the $95 fee. However, if your travel is infrequent, you may not maximize the card’s perks, making the annual fee less appealing.
Other Card Options to Consider
If the United Explorer Card doesn‘t align with your needs, here are some alternative cards to consider:
United Gateway Card:
- No annual fee
- Earn 1.5 miles per $1 spent on United purchases
- Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card:
- $95 annual fee
- Earn 2x points on travel and dining
- Earn 1x point on all other purchases
- Transfer points to multiple airline and hotel partners
Key Points: A Calculated Choice
The United Explorer Card offers a compelling combination of travel rewards and benefits for frequent United flyers. While it carries an annual fee of $95, the card’s perks can easily outweigh the cost if you maximize its earning and redemption opportunities. However, if your travel patterns are more sporadic, consider alternative cards with lower annual fees or broader rewards programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the annual fee for the United Explorer Card?
A: The United Explorer Card has an annual fee of $95.
Q: How do I earn miles with the United Explorer Card?
A: You earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United purchases and 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases.
Q: Can I redeem miles for flights on other airlines?
A: No, you can only redeem miles for flights on United and its partner airlines.
Q: Does the United Explorer Card offer free checked bags?
A: Yes, you get up to two free checked bags on United-operated flights.
Q: Is the United Explorer Card worth the annual fee?
A: Whether the annual fee is worth it depends on your travel habits and spending patterns. If you frequently fly United, the card’s rewards and benefits can offset the fee.
