United Explorer Credit Card Review

The United Explorer Credit Card is a standout choice for avid travelers, particularly those who frequently fly with United Airlines. Offering a high sign-up bonus, complimentary lounge access, and substantial cash back on travel purchases, this card is designed to enhance your travel experience.

If you’re planning a trip or simply love the idea of earning rewards on your travel spending, the United Explorer Credit Card might be the perfect fit.

Sign-Up Offer and Rewards

» Initial Bonus Details

New cardholders can earn a significant bonus: 40,000 bonus miles after spending $2,000 in the first three months. Additionally, there is an opportunity to earn an extra 25,000 miles after spending $10,000 in the first six months. This initial bonus can significantly boost your MileagePlus account, providing ample miles for future travel.

» Reward Rate Breakdown

The United Explorer Credit Card offers a competitive reward rate, earning 2 miles per dollar on United purchases, hotel stays, and dining at restaurants. All other purchases earn 1 mile per dollar. This reward structure ensures that cardholders can accumulate miles quickly, especially if they travel frequently or dine out often.

Key Benefits of the United Explorer Credit Card

» Diverse Earning Potential

In addition to earning 2 miles per dollar on United purchases, the card also offers 2 miles per dollar on hotel stays and restaurant purchases. This diverse earning potential allows cardholders to maximize their miles across multiple spending categories.

» No Foreign Transaction Fees

The United Explorer Credit Card does not charge foreign transaction fees, making it an ideal choice for international travelers. This benefit can result in significant savings, as many other credit cards charge up to 3% per transaction.

Detailed Look at Airport Lounge Access

» United Club Passes Value and Benefits

Cardholders receive two one-time United Club passes each year, valued at $59 each. These passes provide access to United Club lounges, offering a serene environment away from the hustle of the airport. Lounges typically offer complimentary snacks, beverages, and comfortable seating, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Additional Travel Perks

» Insurance and Protection

The United Explorer Credit Card offers a range of travel-related insurance and protection benefits. These include trip cancellation/interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance, and an auto rental collision damage waiver. These protections can provide peace of mind and financial security while traveling.

» Global Entry/TSA Precheck Credit

Cardholders can receive a statement credit for Global Entry or TSA Precheck every four years. These programs expedite the security screening process, making travel more convenient and efficient.

Understanding the Annual Fee

» First Year Waived

The card comes with a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year. This allows new cardholders to experience the benefits of the card without an initial financial commitment.

» Subsequent Annual Fee

After the first year, the annual fee is $95. While this fee is relatively modest compared to other premium travel credit cards, it’s important for prospective cardholders to consider whether their travel habits justify this ongoing expense.

Maximizing Your Rewards

» Strategies for United Purchases

To fully benefit from the United Explorer Credit Card, cardholders should use the card for all United-related expenses, including airfare, baggage fees, and in-flight purchases. This ensures that they earn the maximum possible miles on these transactions.

» Leveraging Dining and Grocery Rewards

The card’s earning potential on restaurant and grocery store purchases can also be leveraged to accumulate miles quickly. By using the card for these everyday expenses, cardholders can steadily build their MileagePlus account balance.

Considerations Before Applying

» Post-First Year Annual Fee

The $95 annual fee after the first year may not be suitable for all, especially if you do not travel frequently enough to offset the fee. Prospective cardholders should assess their travel habits and spending patterns to determine if the card’s benefits outweigh this cost.

» Reward Flexibility

While the MileagePlus program offers valuable rewards, the card’s benefits are primarily geared towards United Airlines. This may limit flexibility compared to other travel credit cards that offer more generalized travel rewards.

Who Should Get This Card?

» United Loyalists

The United Explorer Credit Card is ideal for those who frequently fly with United Airlines and can make the most of the MileagePlus program. The generous sign-up bonus, high earning rates on United purchases, and travel perks make it a compelling choice for United loyalists.

» Travel Enthusiasts

Travel enthusiasts who appreciate lounge access and comprehensive travel protections will find significant value in this card. The added benefits of Global Entry/TSA Precheck credit and travel insurance enhance the overall travel experience, making it a worthwhile investment for frequent travelers.

Conclusion

The United Explorer Credit Card is an excellent option for United Airlines regulars and individuals who travel frequently. With its generous sign-up bonus, valuable rewards program, and travel perks, this card can significantly enhance your travel experience.

However, for those who are looking for a no-annual-fee card or a more generalized travel rewards program, other credit card options might be more suitable.