INTRODUCTION

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the most popular travel rewards cards available, and a recent refresh has only strengthened its appeal. With strong earning rates, valuable everyday credits, and access to Chase's 14 airline and hotel transfer partners, it remains an easy recommendation for beginners and seasoned points collectors alike all for a modest $95 annual fee.

Rewards are earned as Chase Ultimate Rewards points, among the most flexible in the industry. Points can be redeemed for travel through Chase Travel, transferred to partners such as World of Hyatt, United, and Air France-KLM Flying Blue, or used for cash and gift cards. The greatest value comes from transfers, where points are often worth around 2 cents each.

The current welcome offer is especially strong, and the card now includes enough annual credits to comfortably offset its fee for most travelers.

‍

MAIN CARD BENEFITS:

A limited-time sign-up bonus of 100,000 points after spending $5,000 in the first three months (normally 75,000).

5 points per dollar on travel booked through Chase Travel.

3 points per dollar on dining, select streaming services, and online groceries.

3 points per dollar on gas and EV charging, plus vacation homes at brands like Airbnb and Vrbo both newly added categories.

2 points per dollar on all other travel, and 1 point per dollar on everything else.

Up to $100 in annual statement credits for hotels booked through Chase Travel.

A Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS application credit of up to $120 every four years.

A complimentary one-year Apple TV subscription (activation required by December 31, 2026).

DoorDash DashPass membership with a $10 monthly non-restaurant credit, 5x on Lyft and Peloton, a comprehensive suite of travel protections, and no foreign transaction fees.

‍

WHO IS THE CARD FOR:

This card is ideal for everyday travelers who want a simple, rewarding card without paying a premium annual fee. It works best for those who redeem points for travel either through Chase Travel or by transferring to partners where the points stretch furthest.

It also makes a strong first travel card, pairing well with other Chase cards to build a complete Ultimate Rewards strategy. Those chasing airport lounge access or elite status, however, will want to look at premium options like the Sapphire Reserve.

‍

PROS:

Part of the highly valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards ecosystem, with 14 transfer partners.

Strong bonus categories across travel, dining, gas, EV charging, and vacation homes.

Useful annual credits that can offset the $95 fee on their own.

Premium travel protections rarely found on a sub-$100 card.

No foreign transaction fees, making it a great companion overseas.

CONS:

There is a $95 annual fee.

No airport lounge access or elite status benefits.

Transfers to World of Hyatt have dropped to a less favorable 4:3 ratio.

The grocery bonus is limited to online orders and excludes Walmart, Target, and wholesale clubs.

Maximizing the growing list of credits and categories takes some effort.

‍