Tag: credit cards for travel

Posted on by

Cards That Earn Bonus Rewards On Every Dollar Spent

There are plenty of options for cards that earn bonus rewards for spending. These are cards that offer you either cash back or points on each purchase you make. Some of the most popular rewards credit cards will give you bonus points or bonus cash back. The Discover It, for example, offers bonus cash back on rotating categories. The idea of rotating categories is that the categories will switch quarterly. You will earn 5% cash back (or 5% points, depending on the card) for that quarter.

Popular categories for the bonus rotating categories include purchases made at gas stations, grocery stores, dining, online shopping, home improvement stores, and department stores. They can be anything that the credit card company chooses and thinks that their customers will enjoy. Typically there is a cap on the spending in the bonus categories. Going back to the Discover It example, it has a $1,500 spending cap for their rotating bonus categories.

Fixed bonus categories would refer to cards that offer bigger bonuses on certain categories all the time. For example, the Barclaycard Rewards MasterCard offers two points per dollar spent on all gas station, grocery store and utility purchases. This is offered year round with no spending cap. With no annual fee, cardholders get great rewards at a fixed rate all year long.

What if I don’t like rotating categories?

If rotating categories are not for you and you would prefer to get great rewards all year long on all purchases, you are in luck. We have put together a great list of options for you. Each of these cards offers greater than 1% cash back on all purchases. Take a look and see if any of them are right for you!

Citi Double Cash

Want to earn cash back—twice? The Citi Double Cash card lets you do just that. Earn 1% cash back on every purchase, plus earn another 1% cash back for every payment that you make. In addition to the great cash back offer, the Citi Double Cash card offers a 0% introductory rate for the first 15 months that you have the card.

After that, the card offers a competitive APR of 12.99-22.99%, based on your creditworthiness. There is no annual fee for the Citi Double Cash card, so you have nothing to lose with this gem. No worries about spending in certain categories, or registering for rotating rewards. You get the same rewards year round, with no spending cap other than your credit limit. There is no limit to the cash back that you can earn with this card.

Capital One Quicksilver Card

Unlimited cash back is the name of the game with the Capital One Quicksilver Card. You will earn 1.5% cash back on every purchase you make using this card with no limit to the cash back you can earn. There are no specific spending categories or bonus categories to think about. Just use this card for any purchase and get the full reward. Capital One Quicksilver also offers you a $100 cash back reward after you spend $500 in the first three months that you have the card. This is a substantial bonus right off the bat for new cardholders, at 20% cash back!

The cash back rewards are easy and flexible to redeem. You can redeem them at any time for a check, gift card(s), statement credit, or even merchandise. There is no annual fee for this card. You can also enjoy a 0% introductory APR for a limited time on all purchases and balance transfers made using the Capital One Quicksilver card. After the introductory period, the APR will be 12.9-22.9% on purchases and all balance transfers. Another great perk is being able to track your credit score for free so that you can stay on top of any changes right as they occur.

Capital One BuyPower Card

Are you in the market for a new vehicle? The Capital One BuyPower Card might be just the answer. This card offers you 5% cash back rewards on the first $5,000 you spend each year, and 2% on all purchases you make after that. This is a huge reward. You can use the cash back rewards toward the purchase of a new Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, or Cadillac.

The earnings never expire, as long as you have the card. You can really rack up a lot of cash back toward your next vehicle with this card. Because there are no rotating categories, you can use this card for any and all purchases, and watch your cash back rewards add up. Also, Capital One BuyPower card offers an introductory 0% APR for the first 12 months that you have the card, for all purchases and balance transfers. When the introductory period ends, you will pay 11.90, 15.90, or 19.90% variable APR, depending on your creditworthiness.

Looking For Travel Rewards?

Rewards cards come in many shapes and forms. Some offer cash back or credit toward a new vehicle, like the cards listed above. Others will offer some pretty tremendous travel rewards for those who really want to maximize their rewards. Travel rewards are some of the best in the credit card world, since you can often get more than $1 for each point or mile earned. Here are a few of the best ones we can find for you.

Barclaycard Arrival Plus

Super value can be found for travelers when they have the Barclaycard Arrival Plus card. You can earn 40,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 in the first 90 days that you have the card. Earn 2 points for every dollar spent on travel purchases or earn one point for every dollar spent on every other purchase. One of the biggest perks of this card is that cardholders get an extra 10% rewards when booking their travel through Barclaycard or anytime they redeem their miles for statement credits.

The Barclaycard Arrival Plus also offers a 0% introductory APR for the first 12 months on purchases and balance transfers. After that, the APR will be either 14.99% or 18.99%, depending on your creditworthiness. There is an $89 annual fee for this card, but that is waived for the first year.

Capital One Venture Rewards Card

Earn travel rewards fast at a rate of 2 points per dollar spent on every purchase you make with the Capital One Venture Rewards Card. Earn an additional 40,000 points when you spend $3,000 in the first three months of having the card. Cardholders will get a 0% introductory APR rate for the first 12 months after approval on purchases and balance transfers, with a 13.9-20.9% APR after that period ends.

The miles that you earn using the Capital One Venture Rewards card can be flexibly redeemed for flights, hotel, rental cars, and other travel benefits. There are no blackout dates or restrictions on airlines if you book through Capital One. If you prefer to book through your travel agent, the Purchase Eraser feature will allow you to redeem your miles and get credit within 90 days of making a travel purchase using your Capital One Venture Rewards card. Track your credit simply, with your credit score being available every month on your statement or through the online access. There is a $59 annual fee, which is waived for the first year.

BankAmericard Travel Rewards Card

With the BankAmericard Travel Rewards Card, you will earn 1.5 points per dollar spent on all purchases made with the card. There is no limit to the number of points that you can earn. Apply online and earn an additional 10,000 points by spending $500 within the first three months. This adds up to a $100 statement credit when you book any travel rewards.

Conveniently, there are no blackout dates and no restrictions on your travel rewards. There is no annual fee for the BankAmericard Travel Rewards card. Cardholders will enjoy a 0% introductory APR for the first 12 months on purchases and balance transfers when they are approved for the card. After that, an APR of 14.99-22.99% will apply. There are no foreign transaction fees for this card.

Wyndham Rewards Visa

The Wyndham Rewards Visa is a great card for those who love to travel and want to earn free nights at Wyndham hotels and participating partners. Earn 5 points for every dollar spent on participating hotel stays, and earn 2 points for every dollar spent on all other purchases.

You can earn an additional 30,000 points after making your first purchase using the Wyndham Reward Visa card, and another 5,500 bonus points each year. That is enough for a one night stay at any participating hotel. This card has a $69 annual fee, which is not waived for the first year. The APR is 15.24% or 19.99%, depending on your credit history.

Citi Hilton HHonors Reserve

With the Citi Hilton HHonors Reserve card, you will quickly build up plenty of points toward your next vacation at any Hilton hotel or participating partner. You can earn 10 HHonors points for every dollar spent on hotel stays at participating hotels. Or earn 5 HHonors points for other travel purchases, including flights and rental cars. Earn 3 HHonors points on all other purchases made using the card.

Cardholders will enjoy Gold Elite status with HHonors, which will be upgraded to Platinum status if you spend $40,000 in one calendar year. Spend $10,000 per year and earn a free weekend night each year on your anniversary. Earn two free weekend night certificates after spending $2,500 within the first 4 months after being approved for the card. This card has a $95 annual fee. There is a variable 15.24% APR for this card.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are a variety of rewards cards available right now, with more being added frequently. One of them is right for you. Some people prefer rewards cards with straight cash back rewards options, but if you are not a fan of rotating categories and just want to earn tons of points, or you are a frequent traveler (or want to become one), then choosing one of the awesome travel rewards cards that are available will help you quickly earn points toward your next travel adventure!

Posted on by

Review of the no annual fee Capital One Venture Card

Finding the right travel rewards credit card fit for your specific needs and spending habits can be a challenge, especially given the onslaught of advertisements flooding the television and online. Capital One is arguably the leader in terms marketing efforts pushed out to the masses, with notable celebrity endorsements and amusing commercial spots. But all the pomp and circumstance surrounding a credit card does not always mean it is the best option for spenders. To help you determine if the Capital One VentureOne credit card is the one for you, we’ve cut through the fluff to bring you the clear upsides and downsides to the card. Here is our review of the no annual fee Capital One VentureOne credit card.

lg_capone-ventureone102114

 

VentureOne Card Basics

The VentureOne credit card offered by Capital One is a flat-rate travel rewards card. Card members earn 1.25 miles on every dollar spent, regardless of the category of purchase. Each rewards mile through Capital One is worth $0.01, and there is no cap on how many miles can be earned. Also, miles don’t expire, making this an attractive travel card for those who do some heavy spending.

Currently, Capital One is offering a bonus to new card members of the VentureOne card. A one-time 20,000 bonus – or $200 worth of miles – is credited to the card member’s account if at least $1,000 in purchases is made within the first three months after account opening. The combination of miles earned on everyday spending and the initial bonus potential makes the VentureOne card stand out among some of its travel credit card peers.

As a true travel rewards credit card, VentureOne card members are restricted in terms of how miles are redeemed. For now, accumulated miles can only be used as a statement credit toward travel-related purchases. As an example, a card member who purchases airfare on her Capital One VentureOne credit card could use her accumulated 20,000 miles – or $200 – to offset the total cost of her flight. What makes the VentureOne card unique is that there is no need to redeem miles through a dedicated travel site; instead, card members can book their travel how they see fit, directly through the provider or through a partner site. That means no blackout dates and no other pesky restrictions as seen with other travel rewards cards.

Miles cannot be exchanged for cash back or gift cards, nor can a statement credit be applied for anything other than a travel purchase. If you’re seeking out a travel credit card with more flexibility in terms of how miles can be redeemed, the VentureOne card may not be the best choice for you.

Capital One Perks

In addition to the rewards program, Capital One VentureOne card members have a slew of perks at their fingertips. The most notable is the Credit Tracker app, which provides access to the individual’s credit score and activity at no cost. Through Credit Tracker, card members can also gain valuable information regarding what implications changes to their credit profile will have on their score, for better or worse.

Card members also have access to online banking through Capital One, as well as mobile and tablet apps that are helpful for checking balances and payments on the go. In terms of enhanced security, VentureOne card members receive real-time alerts regarding suspicious or fraudulent activity on their account, either through phone, e-mail or text. On top of that, lost or stolen cards are covered by a $0 fraud liability protection program.

One of the unique features of the Capital One VentureOne credit card is the Second Look program, through which Capital One keeps an eye out for duplicate or unusual charges. Should a questionable charge post to the card member’s account, the bank automatically sends an e-mail alerting them to the issue. Capital One also offers Apply Pay for card members who are comfortable using mobile payment applications, as well as personalized payment due dates and various ways to establish payments. Card members have access to 24-hour travel assistance services, auto rental insurance, and travel accident insurance with the VentureOne credit card.

What the Card Costs

Capital One states that the VentureOne credit card is for individuals with excellent credit, typically meaning a credit score of 720 or higher is required for approval. Once approved, the interest rate for purchases starts at 0% and remains there for the first 12 months after accounting opening. Currently there are no promotional APR offers for balance transfers. After the promotional period ends, both purchases and balance transfer rates are based on individual creditworthiness, and will be 12.24%, 17.24% or 22.24%. Cash advance transactions carry a standard APR of 23.24%.

The VentureOne credit card does not assess an annual fee, nor does it carry any foreign transactions fees. From this perspective, the travel rewards card is relatively inexpensive. However, other fees are charged for specific transactions. Card members who initiate a cash advance pay a fee of either $10 or 3% of the amount advanced, whichever is greater. Late payment costs $35, although there are no fees for exceeding the credit limit.

The Final Word

The Capital One VentureOne credit card is a great choice for individuals seeking a travel rewards card that is simple to understand and easy to use. The VentureOne card comes with a flat-rate rewards program, meaning there are no special categories to keep track of over time. Additionally, card members have the ability to redeem rewards through statement credits for travel purchases, without the need to book travel directly through CapitalOne. The introductory APR for purchases, the additional card member perks, no annual fee and potential for bonus miles within the first three months come together to make this a solid travel rewards credit card.

Individuals who want to maximize on a sign-up bonus or who want to earn more miles with purchases may be better off with a different travel credit card. Capital One offers a travel credit card (Venture) that earns higher rewards and provides a sign-up bonus that is double that of the VentureOne card; however, card members who hold the Venture credit card are assessed an annual fee for access to greater rewards.

 

Posted on by

Hyatt Visa Hotel Card from Chase Bank

For those who travel with a degree of frequency, having the right travel rewards credit card is a must. Watching frequent flyer miles, free or discounted hotel stays and travel necessity discounts rack up is part of the fun of hitting the road or the skies, but not all travel cards offer the same benefits. Some travel cards focus on a specific airline or hotel group alone, while others have partners that allow more robust rewards redemption options. The Hyatt Visa Hotel card offered through Chase Bank is a smart choice for travelers with a penchant for staying at the Hyatt when they get away.

 

hyatt_card

 

Card Basics

The Hyatt Visa Hotel card from Chase Bank is a premiere travel card that gives the most bang for each buck in terms of rewards. For every dollar spent on purchases at Hyatt properties with the card, account holders earn three rewards points; for every dollar spent on purchases at restaurants, airline tickets bought directly from the airline or car rental agencies, two rewards points are earned. All other purchases made with the Hyatt Visa Hotel card earn account holders one rewards point per dollar spent. Like most rewards credit cards, one point is equal to $0.01, meaning 1,000 points translates to $10 in rewards.

For individuals new the Hyatt Visa Hotel card from Chase Bank, meaning they have no held the card in the previous 24 months, bonus offers are available for a limited time. First, account holders who spend no less than $1,000 on purchases within the first three months after account opening receive two free nights at participating Hyatt properties. On top of the bonus nights, cardholders who add an authorized user to the account within the first three months earn an additional 5,000 points. The added user must make a purchase during that time frame, however.

Rewards points earned by utilizing the Hyatt Visa Hotel credit card can only be redeemed for free nights at Hyatt properties. Cardholders must have accumulated a minimum of 5,000 rewards points before a free night can be obtained.

Additional Card Benefits

In addition to the rewards program built in to the Hyatt Visa Hotel card, cardholders have unique perks that come with card ownership. First and foremost, one free night at any Hyatt property that falls within the category range of 1 through 4 is obtained every year after the cardholder’s anniversary. Also, cardholders earn different statuses through the Hyatt Passport program which equates to even more perks. Accountholders in good standing can upgrade to the Hyatt Gold Passport Platinum membership category, and are able to maintain that status for as long as the card remains open. The Platinum status under the Hyatt rewards program includes a 15% rewards point bonus on eligible purchases, not to mention complimentary in-room Internet access, and late checkout upon request. All the benefits available through the Hyatt Passport program are detailed within the program’s membership agreement.

Card members can also move up the status ranks by utilizing the Hyatt Visa Hotel credit card on a consistent basis. Account holders receive two stay credits and five night credits toward the Elite Diamond status when $20,000 or more is spent in each calendar year. An additional three stay credits and five night credits can be earned when $40,000 or more is spent throughout the year. These added credits lead to free nights quickly, making the card an attractive solution for those who regularly stay with Hyatt properties when traveling.

Card Member Costs

As with most travel rewards credit cards, the Hyatt Visa Hotel card comes with card member fees that should be reviewed prior to applying for and subsequently utilizing the card. First, an annual fee of $75 is charged each card member anniversary, although for new card members, the annual fee is waived for the first year. The Hyatt Visa is reserved for applicants with exemplary credit, as only one purchase APR is assigned at the time the card is opened to qualified borrowers. The initial interest rate is 16.24% for purchases, but it is tied to the Prime Rate and may fluctuate over time. Balance transfers receive the same APR as purchases, and no promotional interest rate is available at this time.

Cash advances cost card members more than purchases or balance transfers, with a standing APR of 25.24%. Currently, fees associated with cash advances or balance transfers are not available, nor are charges assessed for late payments or returned payments. International travelers or shoppers do not have to worry about additional charges with the Hyatt Visa Hotel credit card, as no foreign transaction fees are imposed.

Final Thoughts

As a travel rewards credit card, the Hyatt Visa Hotel card is a smart choice for individuals who plan to stay in Hyatt properties either domestically or during international travel. The bonus nights earned through the current promotion are available at a relatively low spending barrier within the first three months, and the bump to Diamond status through the Hyatt Passport rewards program is attractive to frequent travelers. The authorized user bonus rewards offer and the anniversary free night stay also adds to the overall benefit of carrying the card.

Hyatt Visa Hotel credit card members have the added benefit of earning rewards on more than just hotel stays. Enhanced rewards points earning potential with certain categories helps account holders earn more nights quickly, as does the standard one rewards point for all other purchases that fall outside the confines of bonus categories. Having the ability to utilize the card for everyday purchases without foreign transaction fees, and the ability to redeem rewards with as few as 1,000 points accumulated help make this card a strong contender in the travel category. The waived annual fee for the first year and comparably low annual fee of $75 thereafter doesn’t hurt either.

Individuals who do not travel often, or those who prefer to stay at hotels ore resorts not associated with Hyatt property management will want to select a different travel rewards card for their wallets. The Hyatt Visa Hotel credit card is best suited for travelers who spend quite a bit on hotel stays with Hyatt throughout the year.

Posted on by

Virgin Atlantic Rewards Credit Card Review

Travel rewards credit cards are available to qualified account holders from a wide variety of airlines, making the task of hitting the skies more rewarding than ever. Whether you fly for business or pleasure, internationally or domestically, travel credit cards are a smart way to earn reduced or no cost flights, seat upgrades, waived baggage fees and more. For travelers who appreciate the experience of flying Virgin Atlantic, the rewards credit card offered through the airline is a great way to rack up points that can be redeemed for flights across the globe in addition to other valuable perks.

 

Card Basics

Virgin Atlantic has created a frequent flyer rewards program known as the Flying Club, offering a number of ways to earn rewards for free flights on the airline and its partner airlines. For new cardholders, the Virgin Atlantic rewards credit card is offering a 20,000 bonus mile credit after the first purchase is made with the card. Account holders can also earn up to 15,000 additional reward miles at each account anniversary, after qualifying purchases are made. For each new account additional cardholder added to the credit card, up to 5,000 additional Flying Club miles can be earned.

In addition to the bonus Flying Club miles earned through the current promotions offered through Virgin Atlantic, cardholders earn rewards easily by simply utilizing the card for purchases. Any purchases of Virgin Atlantic airfare earn cardholders 3 Flying Club miles per $1 spent, without limitation. Similarly, 1.5 Flying Club miles are earned per $1 spent on all other purchases made with the card. Any Flying Club miles accrued throughout the year can be redeemed for airfare through the airline, seat or cabin upgrades, or companion seats for friends or family.

While the Flying Club rewards program is helpful in achieving the necessary number of rewards to redeem for international or domestic flights, the Virgin Atlantic rewards credit card offers an additional way to boost your earning power. Cardholders are also eligible to earn tier points by using their credit card. One tier point is earned per $2,500 spent on purchases, with a maximum of 2 tier points earned each month. Additional tier points can be earned by flying Virgin Atlantic or any of the airline’s partners. Racking up tier points through purchases and flights gives cardholders a higher status over time, which leads to additional benefits not available to lower status cardholders or frequent flyers.

Unique Cardholder Perks

The Flying Club rewards program is not the only perk of using the Virgin Atlantic rewards credit card. Account holders also have access to a number of unique perks offered directly through the airline, including exclusive access to airport lounges, special entertainment events, and discounts on a variety of events only available to cardholders. A dedicated concierge service is also one of the perks associated with the Virgin Atlantic rewards credit card which offers account holders VIP access to dining, hotel stays, hard-to-get event tickets and car services.

While extra rewards are nice to have, the safety that comes with the Virgin Atlantic rewards credit card makes it stand out among other travel credit cards. Account holders are able to connect with fraud resolution specialists to get clear guidance and assistance with reporting credit card fraud with each credit bureau. Additionally, purchase assurance is an added perk of the travel rewards card, offering protection of up to $1,000 on items that are damaged or stolen within 90 days of purchase. Cardholders also have the benefit of an extended warranty on some items purchase with the credit card which extends the original manufacturer’s warranty up to one additional year. For cardholders who worry about purchase protection and identity theft, the Virgin Atlantic rewards credit card is a smart choice.

Virgin Atlantic cardholders also have access to travel assistance and emergency roadside help when needed. The travel assistance program offered through the credit card provides medical, legal and travel-oriented help no matter how far away from home you may be, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The emergency roadside assistance program offers access to a 24-hour, toll-free network of providers that can lend a hand with unexpected roadside needs. Also, cardholders are automatically protected for up to $500,000 through common carrier travel accident insurance when airfare is purchased through the Virgin Atlantic rewards credit card.

The Fine Print

With the seemingly endless number of travel rewards credit cards available to frequent flyers these days, it is always recommended that cardholders understand the fine print of the cardholder agreement. For travelers interested in the Virgin Atlantic rewards credit card, an excellent credit history and score are required to qualify. No introductory interest rate is available at this time, and the standard purchase APR ranges from 12.49% up to 19.49%, based on creditworthiness. Balance transfers are available up to the individual cardholder’s credit limit, but no promotional interest rate is available at this time. A fee is assessed for all balance transfers equal to 3% of the total amount transferred to the new card.

The Virgin Atlantic rewards credit card has a relatively low interest rate for well-qualified account holders, but an annual fee of $90 is due each account anniversary. There are also fees associated with late or returned payments, and the penalty APR of 29.99% is applied when a payment is missed. Cardholders are also assessed a fee for any cash advances taken against their available credit limit, equal to $10 or 3% of the amount advanced, whichever is greater. The cash advance APR ranges from 15.49% up to 22.49%, depending on the cardholder’s initial purchase APR.

The Final Verdict

Although the Virgin Atlantic rewards credit card offers an attractive array of perks and reward-earning potential to cardholders, the travel card is not the best fit for every frequent flyer. Individuals who conduct most of their travel through Virgin Atlantic or their select partner airlines can earn free flights and upgrades relatively quickly. However, travelers who prefer to switch up their preferred airline from time to time may not benefit from the lower Flying Club rewards potential. Additionally, flyers who want a low-cost travel rewards card are better offer finding a credit card with a lower annual fee and more flexible fees for balance transfers or cash advances.

Posted on by

United MileagePlus Rewards Card Review

Over the last few decades, air travel has become less of a luxury reserved for the wealthy and their companions. Jetting away to a different city for work or personal time is not nearly as restricted as it used to be, thanks in part to more reasonable airfare and a growing number of competing airlines. Oh, and the bevy of rewards programs readily available to those who travel on a frequent basis doesn’t hurt, either.

Experienced travelers know that using a travel rewards credit card that is designed for racking up frequent flyer miles is a smart way to enhance the travel experience. Whether it is working toward a free flight, or using cardholder status as a means to get additional perks before, during or after a trip, travel rewards credit cards are the perfect addition to a traveler’s wallet. The United Mileage Plus Explorer credit card made available through Chase Bank is worth a second look for frequent flyers with a penchant for flying United.

 

Card Basics

The Mileage Plus Explorer credit card comes with a strong rewards program for cardholders which has the potential to pay off in a big way over time. Let’s start with the current promotions. New card members have the opportunity to earn up to 30,000 bonus miles when the United Mileage Plus Explorer credit card is used to make $1,000 or more in purchases within the first three months after the account is opened. Additionally, a 5,000 bonus miles credit can be earned when an authorized user is added to the account and that user makes a purchase within the first three months after account opening. When the cardholder spends $25,000 in net purchases throughout the year, an additional 10,000 bonus miles can be credited to the account each and every year.

The bonus offers made available through the United Mileage Plus Explorer credit card are incredibly attractive to card members who plan to spend big within the first three months, or have a tendency to spend big throughout the year. Fortunately, for less frequent spenders, the rewards miles still have the potential to add up. Cardholders earn two miles for each $1 spent on purchases directly through United airlines, with all other purchases earning one mile per $1 spent. The great news for all card members is that miles never expire and there is no limit on earning potential. Any miles earned through the United Mileage Plus Explorer credit card can be redeemed for any seat, any time, on flights operated by United airlines.

Unique Cardholder Perks

Not having to worry about blackout dates or caps on mile earnings are the strongest benefits of the United Mileage Plus Explorer credit card. However, additional perks exist for cardholders that make the card that much more rewarding. Cardholders are not required to pay a baggage fee on the first checked bag for themselves and one companion flyer, which could add up to $100 in savings per each round trip flight. Additionally, priority boarding is available for primary card members and their companions which allows travelers to board before the general boarding group.

The United Mileage Plus Explorer credit card also comes with no foreign transaction fees when purchases are made outside the United States. All United credit cards are chip-enabled, not only providing additional security but also allowing for a more acceptance within the U.S. and abroad. Cardholders also have the benefit of added comfort with United Club passes. Card members receive two United Club passes each year the account is open, providing access to the airline club with complimentary drinks, snacks, workspace and Wi-Fi.

Travelers also have additional protection when utilizing the United Mileage Plus Explorer credit card for purchases through the Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver program and the Purchase Protection program available directly through Chase Bank. Extra perks come by way of room upgrades and certain amenities are more than 700 luxury hotels and resorts around the world. Also, card members gain access to special events, private experiences and discounts through Chase’s Inside Access programs.

The Fine Print

Most travel cards come with some restrictions, either by way of rewards limitations or ongoing fees. The United Mileage Plus Explorer credit card does not impose earning restrictions on miles, but an annual fee of $95 is assessed. Currently, though, new card members have the annual fee waived for the first year.

Chase Bank offers some insight into who is best qualified for the United Mileage Plus Explorer credit card, explaining that individuals with exemplary credit are encouraged to apply. A high credit score and strong credit history will help in getting potential card members approved for the travel card. For those who qualify, the interest rate on purchases ranges from 16.24% up to 23.24%, and the actual rate charged varies depending on broad market movement. Cash advances comes with a standard APR of 25.24%, and balance transfer fees are the same as the initial APR for purchases.

Although interest rates are a substantial part of the total cost of carrying debt on a credit card, additional feels may come in to play affecting the card holder. Late payments or returned payments due to insufficient funds result in a fee ranging from $15 up to $37, depending on the total balance due. Any balance transfers are assessed a fee of $5 or 5%, whichever is greater, of the total amount transferred to the credit card. Similarly, cash advances cost card holders $10 or 5% of the advanced amount, whichever is greater. The combination of these fees and the interest rate charged on carried over balance can add up quickly for cardholders.

The Verdict

The United Mileage Plus Explorer credit card is a smart choice for frequent flyers who prefer to travel via United flights. However, because the card offers no other way to redeem rewards aside from United airfare and their partners, this travel credit card is not recommended for individuals who are seeking a robust rewards program or cash-back options. The annual fee, the purchase APR and the cost for cash advances or balance transfers may make this card unattractive to frequent flyers who are cost-conscious or those who do not utilize the card enough to reap its benefits.

Posted on by

Reviewing the Citi ThankYou Prestige Benefits

Traveling used to be reserved only for those with ample money and a taste for luxury. Thanks to a healthy dose of competition among airlines and an increased desire to travel among the less than wealthy crowd, booking a flight for business or pleasure is far less expensive and less elite than it used to be. Still, we’ve all experienced first-class envy when running through the airport – a desire to take it easy in the members-only lounge, longing to be at the front of the boarding herd, or sitting in preferred seats with a decent amount of legroom once on board. Without paying the hefty price for airport and in-flight amenities, most travelers are forced to be content with the coach experience. However, for some frequent flyers, the ability to achieve first-class status in some aspects of traveling is made easier simply by being a Citi ThankYou Prestige credit cardholder.

 

Citi Prestige

 

The Citi ThankYou Prestige credit card is not just a travel rewards card; it is a true experience. With unmatched benefits, this first-class card is worth taking a closer look.

The Basics

First and foremost, the Citi Prestige credit card offers a robust rewards program, as do the other ThankYou rewards cards offered through CitiBank. Cardholders earn three rewards points for each dollar spent on airfare and hotels, and two rewards points for each dollar spent on entertainment and dining out. All other purchases receive the standard one point per dollar spent. Cardholders are not limited to the number of rewards points they can receive while maintaining the card, nor are rewards set to expire after a certain time frame. As a promotional bonus, any cardholders who qualify for and receive a new Citi Prestige credit card are eligible for a 50,000 rewards bonus when $3,000 in purchases are made within the first three months after account opening. The rewards accumulation system and potential bonus make the travel card attractive to those who fly often, but there’s more!

Cardholders are not limited to how rewards can be redeemed, as may be the case with comparable travel credit cards. The Citi Prestige credit card offers the most bang for the proverbial buck when rewards are used to purchase airfare with American Airlines, followed by other airfare purchased through Citi’s partner airlines. For example, 50,000 rewards points can be redeemed for a $800 American Airlines flight, or a $665 flight with any partner airline. Not too shabby, right? Rewards may also be used for non-travel redemption, such as hotels stays or rental cars. That same 50,000 rewards balance is the equivalent of a $500 hotel stay, for instance.

Rewards may also be transferred to other direct airline or hotel points programs, but a minimum of 1,000 points must be used when taking advantage of this option. There is no fee to transfer points from Citi to another loyalty program, and there is no restriction on the number of times that can be done. Cardholders also have the option of redeeming rewards for merchandise, gift cards, tickets through LiveNation.com or travel getaways. Citi has partnered with ThankYou.com to offer an impressive spread of items that can be purchased in exchange for earned points from the Citi Prestige credit card.

Unique Perks

While the travel rewards available through the Citi Prestige card are attractive, the first-class travel experience is just around the corner for cardholders. One of unique perks that sets Citi Prestige apart from other travel cards is the once-per-year $250 air travel credit applied to any flight-related expenses charge to the card, such as airfare, baggage fees or seat upgrades. Additionally, cardholders have the opportunity to extend a qualifying hotel stay for a fourth night at no cost when the Citi Prestige credit card is used. More benefits come by way of the following:

  • 24/7 access to the Citi Prestige Global Concierge
  • Access to Citi ThankYou Events and Citi Private Pass Beyond events
  • Access to elite travel perks, such as private jets and car services
  • Unlimited access to airport lounges

Finally, Citi Prestige cardholders who also fall under the category of Citigold or Global banking members through CitiBank have the opportunity to ramp up rewards even faster. An annual 15% bonus is applied to the rewards points earned throughout the year for Citigold or Global banking members, while private bank clients receive a 25% rewards bump.

The Fine Print

Although the Citi Prestige card has a great deal of allure for frequent flyers who don’t mind a little luxury now and again, the credit card comes with a big price tag. The annual fee is $450 and is not waived for the first anniversary, making the benefits not necessarily worth the expense for travelers who aren’t out and about often. If you happen to have an authorized user associated with the Citi Prestige card, you can tack on an additional $50 per year, per user to the standard annual fee.

In addition to a hefty cost compared to other travel rewards credit card, the Citi Prestige card comes with a few challenges from the start. According to Citi, an applicant must have an exemplary credit history and score to qualify for the Prestige credit card, meaning a high level of current income, no past due accounts, and low balances on all other revolving credit accounts. If you’re lucky enough to get approved for the Prestige card, be prepared for an annual percentage rate ranging between 15.49% and 25.49% that fluctuates in line with the broad interest rate market. No low introductory rate is offered at this time, nor are there any promotions for balance transfers.

The Verdict

If you prefer to feel like an A-lister when you travel, the Citi Prestige credit card may be the best fit for your needs. The perks included with the card seem endless, ranging from access to private jets and special events to airport lounges and ’round the clock concierge access, and the potential for rewards on travel and non-travel purchases is relatively high compared to other credit cards for travel. However, the Citi ThankYou Prestige card is not a great choice for individuals who aren’t a fan of a high annual fee, or those who simply don’t travel enough to justify that fee. Also, the travel rewards card isn’t meant for individuals with less than perfect credit, no matter how much they long for a stepped up travel experience.

Posted on by

Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card Review

With more than 90 flight destinations spanning the United States, the Caribbean and Mexico, Southwest has taken on a large market share of budget-conscious travelers. The company has a strong reputation among its most frequent flyers due in part to its relatively low fares, no baggage fees and a solid rewards program. The Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier credit card offers a way to boost frequent flyer rewards over time, making it a sound choice for loyal Southwest travelers.

Southwest RR Premier

Underwritten by Chase, the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier credit card is one of three rewards cards offered by the airline that provides frequent flyers the opportunity to earn points toward redeemable miles, gift cards, and other cardholder perks. Let’s take a look at the basics.

The Basics

For each dollar spent on Southwest airlines flights or hotel and car rental partners, cardholders earn two rapid rewards points; all other purchases made on the Rapid Rewards Premier credit card earn accountholders a single point. Rapid rewards points can be redeemed for Southwest Airlines flights to any of the airline’s destinations or for international flights offered through more than 50 global carriers partnered with Southwest. Cardholders may also redeem rapid rewards for more than 70 partner merchants for as little as 3,000 points. Points earned on the Rapid Rewards Premier credit card may also be used to redeem hotel rooms or rental cars throughout the United States, or merchandise listed through the Southwest website.

In addition to a robust rewards redemption program, cardholders don’t have to be concerned with rewards expiring after a certain amount of time. As long as the card remains open and in good standing, your rapid rewards remain useable. Credit card holders are also unlimited in the amount of rewards that can be earned over time.

Cardholders don’t have to fret over seat restrictions or blackout dates when rewards are redeemed, and no change fees are assessed if flights have to be changed. Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier credit card definitely stands out among similar travel rewards cards in offering these added perks.

Unique Perks

The Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier credit card has an added rewards bonus equal to 50,000 points for new cardholders who spend a minimum of $2,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening. On top of that boost in rewards, cardholders receive an added 6,000 points at each account anniversary, making it even easier to accumulate rewards.

For frequent Southwest flyers, the Rapid Rewards Premier card is incredibly attractive in that it also offers an additional 1,500 tier-qualifying points for every $10,000 in purchases, capped at 15,000 tier-qualifying points each calendar year. Travelers who earn at least 35,000 tier-qualifying rewards each year qualify for A-List Status, which provides the following added perks:

  • Priority boarding
  • Priority security lane access
  • Priority check-in
  • 25% more Rapid Rewards points earned each flight
  • Priority standby status
  • A-List member dedicated phone line

As if these benefits weren’t enough for the loyal Southwest fan, a companion pass is available for rewards members who earn at least 110,000 points. The Southwest companion pass allows flyers to choose one person to fly with them to any destination, at any time, for a whole year.

The Fine Print

As with any credit card, applicants should be aware of the nitty gritty details. For the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card, there is no promotional introductory interest rate, even for the most qualified applicants. The annual percentage rate starts at 16.24% and can go up as high as 23.24% for purchases; the cash advance rate is 25.24%. All interest rates assessed on the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier credit card are variable, meaning they will fluctuate with broad market interest rate movements.

For cardholders interested in balance transfers, no promotional interest rate is available at this time. The annual percentage rate applied to balance transfers is the same as the interest rate offered at the time the card is established. However, well-qualified applicants have the opportunity to earn up to 15,000 rewards points on balance transfers successfully completed within the first 90 days of account opening. Cardholders should be aware that a balance transfer fee of 5% or $5 is assessed on the entire amount transferred, whichever is more.

Travel credit cards rarely offer such a variety of perks without a cost, and the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier credit card is no exception to this rule. An annual fee of $99 is charged on an annual basis at the cardholder’s anniversary. Fortunately, no fees are assessed when redeeming rewards.

According to Chase, applicants must have outstanding credit in order to qualify for the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit Card. This means that a low debt-to-income ratio must be in place for borrowers and co-borrowers, along with no outstanding delinquent credit accounts. Past bankruptcies, accounts in collections, or high revolving debt balance relative to credit limits may disqualify an applicant, or may increase the initial interest rate applied to purchases or balance transfers put on the card.

The Verdict

Southwest Airlines is not every traveler’s cup of tea, but for loyal fans of the cost-conscious airline, the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier credit card is an exceptional choice for a travel card. Rapid rewards are earned not only on Southwest fares purchased through the card, but also on everyday purchases like gas or groceries and partner purchases such as hotel stays and rental cards. Cardholders have the opportunity to boost total rewards earnings by taking advantage of special balance transfer offers and a 50,000 utilization rewards bonus applicable within the first three months after account opening. Southwest credits another 6,000 rewards each anniversary of account opening simply for being a customer in good standing.

The rewards are a great feature of the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier credit card, but frequent flyers also have the benefit of no blackout dates when redeeming rewards for airfare, and no seat restrictions. Rewards never expire, and there is no cap on earnings. Cardholders do need to be aware of the annual fee of $99, as well as the annual percentage rate charged on purchases, balance transfers and cash advances. For travelers with excellent credit and a penchant for the Southwest experience, the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier credit card is a strong contender in travel credit cards.

Posted on by

British Airways Visa NEW Offer

A new offer from Chase is allowing cardholders to earn huge bonus points with no annual fee for the first year. The British Airways Visa Signature Card is changing up its perks and redemption processes and is a pretty attractive offer. Let’s take a closer look.

 

Higher Rewards for Airline Travelers

Most of the airline travel cards that are on the market right now offer about 2% back on all flight purchases, and 1% back on all other purchases. With the British Airways Signature Card, you can earn 2.5 Avios points for every dollar spent on British Airways, and 1.25 Avios on all other purchases. The new offer also allows you to earn 50,000 Avios after spending only $2,000 in the first 3 months that you have the card.

Annual Fee Waived for the First Year

The annual fee, which is usually $95, is waived for the first year that you have the British Airways Signature Card. Even when you have to pay the annual fee, the perks are worth far more than $95. The 50,000 bonus Avios points alone are worth $1000.

Companion Tickets

Those who spend $30,000 per year on the British Airways Signature Card will earn a travel voucher that is good for one companion ticket when you book your own flight using your Avios points. Each voucher that you earn (one per year) is good for a full two years. Vouchers are worth at least $200 (equivalent to 20,000 Avios). Using the companion ticket for an international flight can save thousands of dollars. This is one of the most attractive features of the card, by far.

Flexible Redemption

Interestingly, the best way to maximize your Avios is not by using them for British Airways flights. One criticism of the program is that when you redeem your Avios for British Airways flights, there are some pretty hefty surcharges and fees attached. Instead, the most economical option is to use the Avios points for flights on one of the many One World partner airlines. Just to give you an idea of what this means, here is a list of the airlines that participate in the One World Alliance:

  • American Airlines
  • British Airways
  • Cathay Pacific
  • Finnair
  • Iberia
  • Japan Airlines
  • LAN
  • Malev
  • Mexicana
  • Qantas
  • Royal Jordanian
  • S7 Airlines

British Airways Signature Card members are automatically considered members of the “Executive Club” for the One World Alliance. This means you can use the Avios points on any of these airlines, and get some great travel deals. The higher rate of earning for the British Airways Signature Card means that you can get more points to use on these airlines, and using them for flights on American Airlines, for example, is a much better deal for you than using your AAdvantage miles from other programs.

One of the few limitations is that, when using Avios to book flights between the United States and the United Kingdom, you will be required to book for flights on British Airways. But, when flying anywhere else, you can choose any of the other airlines and use the Avios, which are worth more than your average airline program miles.

Competitive APR

Although there is no 0% introductory APR being offered, the APR is a competitive 15.99%, which is pretty reasonable when comparing to other travel rewards cards.

Security When Traveling

The British Airways Signature Card offers Smart Chip technology, which gives an added layer of protection when you use the card in Europe, and also helps protect your personal data safe and secure when using it every day at home.

No Foreign Transaction Fees

Any travel credit card that you use should not charge foreign transaction fees. After all, you are probably using the card because you travel frequently, and foreign transaction fees can certainly add up quickly. Cardholders will pay no foreign transaction fees for using this card.

Conclusion

The British Airways Signature Card has a new offer that gives a huge 50,000 sign up bonus for spending only $2,000 in the first three months. Although using Avios points to book British Airways flights is not the best way to use them, if you like to fly on American Airlines or any of the other One World Alliance partner airlines, this is a great deal, especially if you are interested in booking international flights at a huge discount.

Posted on by

A Comparison of the Top 3 Fixed Value Travel Rewards Cards

Travel credit cards offer some of the best rewards in the business. Usually you can earn tons of points, and, in some cases, these points can be redeemed for travel rewards worth more than $1 per point. Let’s take a closer look at the top three fixed value travel reward cards that you can choose from right now.

 

BankAmericard Travel Rewards

The BankAmericard Travel rewards card has great earning potential and very nice bonus opportunities. There is no annual fee for this card. You will earn 1.5 point for every dollar spent, with no limit to the amount of miles that you can earn.  They offer a 10,000 point bonus to new cardholders after spending $500 in the first three months that you have the card, if you apply online; this corresponds to a $100 statement credit! There is a 0% introductory APR on balance transfers and purchases for the first 12 months. After the introductory period, the APR will range from 14.99-22.99%, depending on your credit. There are no foreign transaction fees.

Redeeming your points earned using the BankAmericard Travel Rewards card is simple. There are no blackout dates, and no restrictions. BankAmerica checking and savings customers will receive a bonus of 10% of their annual points each year, based on their total spending for the year. Chip technology makes this card very safe to use, and helps reduce fraud and unauthorized transactions.

 

Barclaycard Arrival Plus

The Barclaycard Arrival Plus is one of the most popular travel rewards cards, and it is not hard to see why. Cardholders pay an $89 annual fee, which is waived for the first year. You will earn double miles on all purchases, with no limit to the miles you can earn. New cardholders will receive a bonus of 40,000 miles after spending $3,000 in the first three months. This is the equivalent of a $400 travel credit! Barclaycard Arrival Plus offers a 0% introductory APR for the first 12 months for purchases and balance transfers, with an APR of 14.99-18.99% at the end of that period.

Booking your travel is simple with the Barclaycard Arrival Plus. There are no blackout dates or restrictions that apply. For each travel booking, you earn 10% bonus miles, based on the travel spending, making each mile you redeem worth even more. The card is EMV chip enabled, giving you confidence that fraud is unlikely and your personal information is safe. There are also no foreign transaction fees.

Apply Now: Barclaycard Arrival PlusTM World Elite MasterCard®

For those who do not want to pay an annual fee, there is another version of the Barclaycard Arrival that offers no annual fee with smaller, yet still substantial travel rewards available. Link: Barclaycard ArrivalTM World MasterCard®

 

 

Capital One Venture

Capital One has an excellent option for those who love to travel. The Capital One Venture Rewards card offers two points for every dollar spent on all purchases. Earn an additional 40,000 bonus points by spending $3,000 in the first three months you have the card. There is no limit to the number of points that you can earn. There is no annual fee for the first year, after that you will pay an annual fee of $59. There is no introductory APR rate, the APR is 13.9-20.9%, depending on your credit.

Redeem your Capital One Venture rewards with the No Hassle guarantee for flights, hotels, rental cars, gift cards and more, with no blackout dates or restrictions. Capital One will help you book your travel, or you can use the Purchase Eraser to pay for the cost of booking the travel through an agent. There are no foreign transaction fees to use this card abroad and it comes with smart chip technology. Capital One offers free credit tracking for customers, too, making it easy to stay on top of your credit score.

For those who wish to earn travel rewards without having to pay any annual fee, the Capital One VentureOne card has no annual fee, offers 1.25 points for every dollar spent, and a bonus of 20,000 points for spending only $1,000 in the first three months.

 

Conclusion

Each of these travel rewards credit cards has something great to offer. If you’re looking for the most rewards possible, the Barclaycard Arrival Plus stands out from the crowd. It offers the highest fixed travel rewards rate in the industry right now, and the flexible process to redeem the points (as well as additional bonuses available when you redeem for travel rewards) makes this our first choice. Take a look for yourself to compare the options, and see if you agree!

Posted on by

A Look at the New Expedia Rewards Cards from Citibank

There can never be too many credit cards for travel, and now Citibank has teamed up with Expedia to offer a new rewards travel card with some interesting benefits. With two different versions to choose from, the Expedia+ Card and the Expedia+ Voyager card, you have some great options to choose from. Let’s take a look at both cards to see what they have to offer.

Expedia+ Card

The first version of the Expedia travel rewards credit card has some great perks:

  • Earn 3 points per dollar spent on Expedia purchases (this would include flights, hotel stays, entertainment activities and even vacation packages)
  • Earn 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases
  • Earn 15,000 bonus rewards points after spending $1,000 in purchases during the first three months you have the Expedia+ card
  • Earn automatic silver status; this usually requires you to book 7 qualifying nights or spend $5,000 per year. Once you are raised to gold status, you will earn one qualifying hotel night for every $2,500 spent on each year
  • No annual fee
  • 3% foreign transaction fee

Expedia+ Voyager Card

The Voyager is considered to be the upgraded version of the Expedia+ card, here are some of the major differences:

    • Earn 4 points per dollar spent on Expedia purchases (flights, hotels, vacation packages, entertainment
    • Earn 2 points per dollar spent on all dining and other entertainment purchases
    • Earn 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases
    • Earn 25,000 bonus rewards points after spending $2,000 in purchases during the first three months that you have the Expedia+ Voyager card
    • Earn automatic gold status; this is typically awarded after booking 15 eligible nights or spending $10,000 per year
    • Earn $100 statement credit toward any airline in-flight purchases
    • Earn 5,000 bonus rewards points on your anniversary, if you have spent $10,000 during the previous year
    • $95 annual fee
    • No foreign transaction fees

 

Worth it?

Both of these cards are great options from Citibank for those who prefer to use Expedia for travel arrangements. The Voyager offers considerably better benefits, and is well worth the $95 fee—since you are getting the statement credit that more than covers that, anyway. Plus, the huge sign up bonus after the first three months equates to up to 17% cash back on the first $2,000 you spend. Where else can you get that kind of reward?

The one major downside is that you are really tied to Expedia when you want to redeem your points. Sure, Expedia is great, but there are plenty of other great travel options for online reservations, and you may want to explore those, too. With travel becoming more and more expensive, choosing the best options for using your travel rewards is becoming increasingly important to those who want to get the best deals.

You can earn silver and gold status pretty easily with the Expedia+ card and the Expedia+ Voyager card, which will help you really get great deals from Expedia, so if you do travel frequently, it’s definitely not a bad option.

 

Other Cards to Consider

Barclaycard Arrival Plus 

With the Barclaycard Arrival PlusTM World Elite MasterCard®, you will get 2 miles per dollar on every dollar spent! That can add up to a lot of miles. You will also receive 40,000 bonus miles once you are approved for the card and spend $3,000 in the first 3 months of card membership. There is an $89 annual fee, but it is waived for the first year. The best thing about this card is that it is much like a cash back card in that you can redeem your miles for any travel purchase. This gives you great flexibility in how you use your travel rewards. Redeem for Expedia purchases, or any other travel purchase you make!

Sapphire Preferred

With the Chase Sapphire Preferred card, you will get 2 points per dollar spent on travel and dining purchases and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases. When you sign up for this card and spend $3,000 in the first 3 months of having the card, you will receive a bonus of 40,000 Ultimate Rewards points. That’s more than enough for a round-trip domestic flight on United Airlines (one of their 11 top travel partners)! The great thing about this card is the flexibility of Ultimate Rewards points, since they have many travel partners to choose from. You can really get great value with UR points when redeeming for international flights that would cost you a pretty penny if you were to pay for them with cash.