For frequent flyers of United Airlines, the Chase United Explorer Card stands as a powerful tool to enhance their travel experience. This co-branded credit card, issued by Chase in partnership with United Airlines, offers a compelling blend of rewards, travel benefits, and exclusive perks designed to make your journeys more comfortable and cost-effective. While it comes with an annual fee, the value derived from its features often outweighs this cost for dedicated United travelers. Let’s explore the essential aspects of this card, from its benefits to the application process.
What is the Chase United Explorer Card?
The Chase United Explorer Card is a travel rewards credit card designed for individuals who frequently fly with United Airlines. It allows cardmembers to earn MileagePlus miles on everyday spending, which can then be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and other travel-related expenses within the United ecosystem. Beyond earning miles, the card provides a suite of benefits that directly improve the airport and in-flight experience, from baggage perks to lounge access.
Key Features and Benefits of the Chase United Explorer Card
The United Explorer Card comes packed with features that cater specifically to United loyalists:
1. Generous Welcome Offer:
New cardmembers are typically greeted with a substantial welcome bonus of MileagePlus miles after meeting a specified spending requirement within the initial months of account opening. This bonus alone can be enough for a domestic round-trip flight or contribute significantly to a more aspirational redemption.
2. Accelerated Mileage Earning:
The card offers enhanced earning rates on categories relevant to travelers:
- 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases (flights, in-flight purchases, etc.).
- 2 miles per $1 spent at restaurants (including eligible delivery services).
- 2 miles per $1 spent on hotel stays when booked directly with the hotel.
- 1 mile per $1 on all other purchases.
This structure allows you to quickly accumulate miles on both travel and everyday expenses.
3. Free First Checked Bag:
This is a standout benefit for many travelers. As the primary cardmember, you and one companion traveling on the same reservation can each receive your first checked bag for free on United-operated flights when purchasing tickets with your United Explorer Card. This can lead to significant savings, potentially up to $160 per round trip.
4. United Club One-Time Passes:
Enjoy a taste of airport lounge luxury with two complimentary United Club one-time passes each year (after account opening and on each anniversary). These passes, valued at over $100 annually, grant you access to United Club lounges worldwide, offering a comfortable space with complimentary food, beverages, Wi-Fi, and a quiet environment away from the bustling terminal.
5. Priority Boarding:
Say goodbye to the last-minute scramble for overhead bin space. The United Explorer Card grants you and your companions on the same reservation priority boarding (Group 2), allowing you to settle in and store your carry-on before the masses.
6. Up to $120 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS Fee Credit:
Every four years, you can receive a statement credit of up to $120 as reimbursement for the application fee for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS when charged to your card. These trusted traveler programs can dramatically speed up your airport security and customs experience.
7. 25% Back on United Inflight and Club Premium Drink Purchases:
Get 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages, and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights, and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your United Explorer Card. This adds up for frequent flyers who enjoy in-flight amenities.
8. No Foreign Transaction Fees:
This is a crucial benefit for international travelers. The United Explorer Card has no foreign transaction fees, saving you typically 2-3% on every purchase made outside the U.S. This makes it an excellent card to use abroad.
9. Primary Car Rental Insurance:
Unlike many credit cards that offer secondary car rental insurance, the United Explorer Card provides primary coverage. This means the card’s insurance benefit kicks in before your personal auto insurance, potentially saving you from filing a claim with your own insurer and avoiding deductible payments. You must pay for the rental with your card and decline the rental company’s collision damage waiver.
10. Travel Protections:
The card includes several valuable travel protections, such as:
- Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance: Reimburses you for eligible non-refundable travel expenses if your trip is canceled or interrupted for covered reasons.
- Baggage Delay Insurance: Covers essential purchases like toiletries and clothing if your bags are delayed.
- Lost Luggage Reimbursement: Reimburses you for checked or carry-on baggage and its contents if lost or damaged.
- Trip Delay Reimbursement: Covers reasonable expenses like meals and lodging if your trip is delayed for a covered reason.
11. Access to More Award Space:
Holding the United Explorer Card can give you access to expanded award availability when searching for United award flights, potentially making it easier to find and book flights using your miles.
Important Information to Consider
Before applying for the Chase United Explorer Card, keep these points in mind:
- Annual Fee: The card typically has an annual fee (e.g., $95), which is often waived for the first year. Evaluate if the benefits you’ll use outweigh this cost.
- Credit Score: A good to excellent credit score (generally FICO score of 670 or higher) is usually required for approval. Chase has specific rules (like the 5/24 rule) that can affect your approval if you’ve opened too many new credit accounts recently.
- Interest Rates: If you carry a balance, interest will be charged. The Annual Percentage Rate (APR) for purchases is variable and will be disclosed in the card’s terms and conditions. Paying your statement balance in full each month is highly recommended to avoid interest charges.
- Cash Advances: Cash advances come with higher fees and interest rates and should generally be avoided.
- MileagePlus Program: You’ll need a MileagePlus account to earn and redeem miles. If you don’t have one, you can sign up for free on United’s website.
How to Apply for the Chase United Explorer Card (Application in English)
Applying for the Chase United Explorer Card is a straightforward online process. Here’s how to do it:
1. Visit the Official Chase Website: Go to the official Chase Bank website (chase.com) and navigate to the “Credit Cards” section. Look for the travel credit cards or specifically for United co-branded cards.
2. Find the United Explorer Card: Locate the “The New United℠ Explorer Card” product page. On this page, you’ll find the most current welcome offer, rewards rates, and a summary of benefits.
3. Review the Offer and Terms: Before applying, carefully read the Limited-Time Offer details, including the spending requirement for the welcome bonus and its timeframe. Also, review the Pricing & Terms link, which will provide comprehensive information on the annual fee, APR, other fees, and all benefits.
4. Click “Apply Now”: Once you’re ready, click the “Apply Now” button. This will take you to a secure online application form.
5. Fill in Your Personal Information: The application form will ask for various personal details, including:
- Full Name (as it appears on government ID)
- Residential Address
- Date of Birth
- Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
- Phone Number and Email Address
- Mother’s Maiden Name (for security purposes)
- Citizenship Status
6. Provide Financial and Employment Information: You’ll need to disclose details about your employment and income to help Chase assess your creditworthiness. This typically includes:
- Employment Status (e.g., employed, self-employed, retired)
- Employer Name (if applicable)
- Annual Gross Income
- Source of Income
- Monthly Housing Payment (rent or mortgage)
- Bank Account Information (for setting up payments)
7. Add Your MileagePlus Number (Optional but Recommended): If you already have a United MileagePlus number, you can typically enter it directly on the application. This ensures your new credit card account is linked to your existing frequent flyer program, making it seamless to earn and redeem miles. If you don’t have one, Chase may help you create one or you can do so separately on United’s website.
8. Review and Submit: Carefully review all the information you’ve entered to ensure accuracy. Any discrepancies could delay your application. Once you’re confident, click the “Submit” button.
9. Application Decision: Chase often provides an instant decision on online applications. In some cases, your application may go into a pending status, requiring further review. If approved, you’ll receive a confirmation email.
10. Card Delivery and Activation: If approved, your new Chase United Explorer Card will be mailed to your address, usually within 7-10 business days. The card’s PIN will typically arrive in a separate mailing for security. Once you receive the card, follow the instructions to activate it online or by phone before making your first purchase.
Important Tip: Before applying for any credit card, check your credit score and history to ensure you meet the issuer’s typical requirements. Be mindful of Chase’s 5/24 rule, which can restrict approvals if you’ve opened five or more new personal credit card accounts across all issuers in the past 24 months.
Conclusion
The Chase United Explorer Card is a powerful travel companion for anyone committed to flying with United Airlines. Its combination of a strong welcome bonus, accelerated mileage earning, and valuable travel benefits like free checked bags, lounge passes, and Global Entry credit can significantly enhance your travel experience and provide substantial savings. While it carries an annual fee, the perks often deliver value far exceeding that cost, making it a worthwhile investment for frequent United flyers. By understanding its features and the application process, you can determine if this card is the right fit to elevate your next journey.
