If you’re a frequent traveler looking for high-value rewards, flexible redemptions, and powerful travel perksāwithout the premium price tag, the Chase Sapphire PreferredĀ® is one of the best mid-tier travel cards on the market. Designed to give you more from every purchase, this card strikes a smart balance between benefits and affordability. Letās break down why it’s a top choice for those seeking exceptional travel value.
What is the Chase Sapphire PreferredĀ®?
The Chase Sapphire PreferredĀ® is a travel rewards credit card built for adventurers who want to earn rewards on travel and dining while maintaining control over costs. With valuable points, broad travel protections, and flexible redemption options through the Chase Ultimate RewardsĀ® program, it offers a strong foundation for building travel value without a high annual fee.
Key Features and Benefits of the Chase Sapphire PreferredĀ®
1. Generous Welcome Bonus
New cardmembers can earn a significant points bonus after meeting a spending threshold in the first three months. When redeemed through Chase Travel, this bonus is worth 25% more, making it one of the most attractive offers in its class.
2. Accelerated Earning Structure
Earn rewards faster with enhanced multipliers on common spending categories:
- 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Travelā
- 3x points on dining (including eligible delivery services)
- 3x points on select streaming services
- 3x points on online grocery purchases (excluding Walmart/Target)
- 2x points on all other travel
- 1x point on all other purchases
Whether you’re planning a trip or ordering dinner, every purchase gets you closer to your next getaway.
3. 25% More Value When Redeeming Through Chase Travel
When booking flights, hotels, and more through Chaseās travel portal, your points are worth 25% more. That means 60,000 points = $750 in travelāgiving your rewards a major boost.
4. 1:1 Point Transfers to Airline and Hotel Partners
Maximize your value by transferring points at a 1:1 ratio to over a dozen loyalty programs, including:
- United MileagePlusĀ®
- Southwest Rapid RewardsĀ®
- Hyatt, Marriott, IHG, and others
This is ideal for travelers seeking luxury redemptions or last-minute flight deals with partner programs.
5. $50 Annual Hotel Credit
Each account anniversary year, receive up to $50 in statement credits for hotel bookings made through Chase Travel. This adds an immediate return and offsets a portion of the cardās annual fee.
6. 10% Anniversary Point Bonus
Every year, youāll receive a 10% bonus on the total points earned from purchases made in the past year. For example, if you earned 50,000 points through spending, youāll get an additional 5,000 points as a loyalty reward.
7. Robust Travel Protections
This card includes travel insurance features typically found on higher-tier cards:
- Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance (up to $10,000 per person)
- Primary Rental Car Insurance
- Trip Delay Reimbursement (if delayed 12+ hours or overnight)
- Baggage Delay Coverage
- Lost Luggage Reimbursement
Youāre covered before, during, and after your journey.
8. No Foreign Transaction Fees
Travel internationally with confidenceāthere are no foreign transaction fees, making the Sapphire Preferred a great companion abroad.
ā ļø Important Considerations Before Applying
- Annual Fee: The card charges a modest $95 annual fee, which is not waived in the first yearābut the benefits can easily offset this for most users.
- Credit Score Needed: A good to excellent credit score is typically required (FICO 670+ recommended).
- APR: The purchase APR is variable. As with all rewards cards, it’s best to pay in full monthly to avoid interest charges and maximize value.
- Chase 5/24 Rule Applies: If youāve opened five or more personal credit cards in the last 24 months, you may be ineligible.
How to Apply for the Chase Sapphire PreferredĀ®
1. Go to the Chase Website
Visit chase.com, navigate to āCredit Cards,ā and find the Chase Sapphire PreferredĀ®.
2. Review the Welcome Offer
Note the current sign-up bonus, spending requirement, and the timeframe to earn the reward.
3. Click āApply Nowā
Start your secure application online.
4. Enter Personal Information
Provide your name, address, SSN, contact info, and citizenship status.
5. Add Financial Information
Include your employment status, gross annual income, and monthly rent/mortgage payments.
6. Review and Submit
Double-check your data and submit your application. Chase may approve instantly or request additional time for review.
Conclusion: Is the Chase Sapphire PreferredĀ® Worth It?
Absolutelyāespecially if you travel regularly but donāt want a high annual fee.
The Chase Sapphire PreferredĀ® delivers tremendous value through its welcome bonus, elevated earning structure, flexible redemptions, and strong protectionsāall for under $100 per year. It’s consistently rated as one of the best starter travel cards on the market and is a perfect stepping stone for anyone looking to maximize travel without going premium.
Whether you’re booking your next trip or dining out locally, this card ensures your spending works harder for you.
