The United Explorer Card is designed to reward frequent United Airlines travelers in the United States. It offers perks that enhance the flying experience and encourage consistent loyalty to United Airlines.
This card is especially valuable for those who frequently travel with United and want to maximize benefits such as free checked bags, priority boarding, and earning miles on purchases.
The United Explorer Card is popular among U.S.-based travelers aiming to get the most out of their flights. Key features, benefits, and potential costs will clarify its value for frequent flyers.
United Explorer Card: Key Features
The United Explorer Card is tailored for U.S.-based travelers seeking to enhance their flying experience and earn valuable rewards. Here’s what it offers:
Sign-Up Bonus:
- 60,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 within the first three months.
- 5,000 additional miles for adding an authorized user within the same period.
- Bonus eligibility requires no previous United Explorer Card ownership or bonuses in the last 24 months.
Earning Miles:
- 7x miles on United flights (5x as a MileagePlus member and 2x using the card).
- 4x miles on hotel stays booked through United Hotels.
- 2x miles on eligible hotels and dining, including delivery services.
- 1x mile on other purchases, covering everyday spending.
Airline Benefits:
- Free first-checked bag for you and one companion, saving up to $160 on a roundtrip.
- Two United Club passes annually for lounge access, snacks, and Wi-Fi.
- Priority boarding for cardholders and companions.
- 25% statement credit on in-flight food, drinks, and Wi-Fi purchases.
Travel Protections:
- Trip delay insurance is available for costs during long delays.
- Baggage delay reimbursement for essential purchases.
- Travel accident insurance is available for coverage during eligible trips.
Purchase Protections:
- Theft and damage protection on new purchases.
- Extended warranty on eligible items, extending manufacturer coverage.
Should You Get This Card?
The United Airlines Explorer Card is best suited for specific travelers and spenders in the United States. Ideal cardholders include:
- Frequent United Airlines travelers benefit from free checked bags, priority boarding, and other flight-related perks.
- Travelers who value lounge access and statement credits to enhance their travel experience.
- Individuals are confident in meeting spending thresholds within the first three months to earn bonus miles.
United Explorer Card Online Application
Applying for the United Explorer Card is a simple online process. Follow these steps and ensure you meet the eligibility requirements.
- Access the official application page through Chase or United Airlines’ website.
- Provide accurate personal, financial, and contact information.
- Double-check all details and submit your application.
You will need the following requirements below:
- A good to excellent credit score is necessary.
- Applicants should not have held this card or received a bonus in the last 24 months.
- Residency or a valid mailing address in the United States is required.
How to Book an Award Flight with the United Explorer Card
Using the United Explorer Card helps you accumulate MileagePlus miles faster, making it easier to book award flights. Here’s how to redeem your miles for a flight:
- Log in to your MileagePlus account.
- Enter your trip details, such as destination and travel dates, then select “Search.”
- Choose the flight you want to book using your miles.
- Complete the checkout process, and the award price will be deducted from your MileagePlus mile balance.
Pros of the UA Explorer Card for Frequent Flyers
It is a great choice for those who travel often.
Designed for Travelers
The United Explorer Card offers benefits tailored for frequent flyers, including faster mileage earnings, bonus rewards, and exclusive travel perks.
Mileage Accumulation
Earn miles faster on travel and daily spending. Cardholders get 7x miles on United flights, 4x miles on hotel stays booked through United, and 2x miles on dining, making it easier to save for future trips.
Bonus Miles
New cardholders can earn 60,000 bonus miles after meeting the required spending within the first three months. Adding an authorized user within the same period brings an extra 5,000 bonus miles, giving a significant head start on rewards.
Lounge Access
Enjoy two United Club passes annually, featuring complimentary snacks, beverages, and high-speed Wi-Fi. This enhances comfort during long airport waits.
Companion Benefits
The cardholder and one companion receive a free first-checked bag, saving up to $160 per roundtrip. Priority boarding ensures a more seamless and convenient travel experience.
Cons of the United Card Explorer for Frequent Flyers
This card has a few drawbacks to consider, especially for frequent travelers.
Spending Requirement for Bonus Miles
The United Explorer Card requires a minimum spend of $3,000 within the first three months to unlock 60,000 bonus miles. Meeting this threshold can be challenging for users who don’t spend at this level consistently.
Limited Airline Partners
The card’s benefits are tied primarily to United Airlines and its partner airlines. Frequent flyers who prefer other carriers may find the rewards and perks less flexible or useful.
Restrictions on Mile Redemption
Redeeming miles may involve limitations. Award availability is often reduced during peak travel periods, making finding options that match your plans harder. Additionally, some flights may require more miles than expected, diminishing the overall value of the rewards.
Interest Rates (APR)
The APR ranges from 21.99% to 28.99%, depending on your creditworthiness. These are variable rates that may change over time. Make sure to check your specific rate when approved. This helps manage potential interest on balances carried.
Balance Transfer Fees
Balance transfers come with a fee based on a percentage of the transferred amount. A minimum fee typically ensures a flat charge on smaller amounts. Be mindful of this fee if you plan on transferring balances. It’s essential to account for these costs when consolidating debts.
Annual Fee
The annual fee is waived for the first year. After that, a $95 fee applies each year. This gives you time to assess the benefits’ value and ensure the annual fee is worth the perks you receive.
Late Payment Fees
If you miss a payment, you could be charged a late fee. In some cases, a penalty APR may also apply. It’s essential to make payments on time to avoid these additional costs. Stay on top of payment due dates to maintain a healthy account status.
United Explorer Card Contact Information
For inquiries about the United Credit Card Explorer, Chase Bank offers customer support at 1-800-432-3117. In the United States, you can also visit their office at Chase Tower, 10 S Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60603.
For updated terms, conditions, and detailed card information, refer to the official Chase website or contact customer service directly. Terms may change, so confirming current details is recommended.
The Final Verdict on the United Explorer Card
The United Explorer Card delivers valuable travel rewards. It includes benefits such as a free checked bag and clear details about mileage earnings in the official card agreement. These features enhance convenience and add value for frequent travelers.
Managing expenses is straightforward, with transparent interest rates and fees. This card is an excellent option for travelers in the United States who want a smoother and more rewarding travel experience.
Disclaimer: Rates, fees, and terms may change. For accurate details, refer to the official card agreement.
