Who should get a United Airlines credit card?

If you are only going to have one rewards credit card in your wallet , a United card is probably not it. If you’re looking for a single card, I’d recommend a more flexible option. For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card earns points that can be used for United without locking you into one program. But, if you fly United at least once or twice per year, then having a United card in your wallet likely makes sense. It can save you money on bag fees and inflight purchases, as well as open up access to less expensive awards. In fact, we think that having a United card in your family is a really good strategy . If you don’t have elite status with United but fly the airline occasionally, the United Explorer Card and the United Business Card are great choices with valuable perks like a free checked bag, priority boarding and a couple of one-time United Club passes each year. The access to increased Saver award space is another tangible perk. If you have any elite status level with United, some of the features outlined above are redundant. If you are really choosy about what’s in your wallet, you’d probably be better off with a card like Chase Sapphire Preferred , which has the same $95 annual fee but offers 2 points per dollar on United tickets and all travel purchases (plus 3 points per dollar on dining, select streaming services and online grocery deliveries). If you can use the Chase Sapphire Reserve $300 annual travel credit, the Sapphire Reserve will likely be a better choice because it offers 3 points per dollar on travel and dining and better travel protections . The Ink Business Preferred could also be a no-brainer for any small-business owner who wants to earn a lot of points on common business purchases and then transfer those earnings to United at a 1:1 ratio. Those who want regular United Club access will be well-served by the United Club Infinite Card , which also offers 4 miles per dollar spent with United and premium travel perks. Related: How to transfer Ultimate Rewards points between accounts

How much are United miles worth?

TPG values United miles at 1.45 cents each. When United switched to more dynamic award prices , some awards got more expensive while others during less popular periods got less expensive. Overall, this made the miles a bit less valuable, especially for those who like to use miles during peak travel periods or to fly in the fancy seats upfront. However, there are still tremendous award values to be had with United miles . For example, we recently locked in awards from Houston (IAH) to Orange County (SNA) for 7,000 miles each way and lie-flat seats to Hawaii for 60,000 miles each. Even in the good seats, partner award flights are still priced at relatively fixed amounts, so you can fly to Europe, Asia, Australia, and beyond in first or business class on partners for pretty static numbers of United miles. For inspiration, here are some of the best ways to use United miles . Lufthansa First Class. (photo by Zach Honig/The Points Guy)

Which card is best for United elite flyers?

While you might want one for the welcome bonus or the everyday earning capabilities, the truth is that the entry-level United cards, such as the United Gateway and the United Explorer Card , don’t offer a ton of unique benefits that United elite flyers won’t already have due to their elite status. Early boarding, free checked bags, expanded saver award access, etc., are all pretty useless card perks for those with United elite status. However, there are a few reasons for elites to consider the entry-level United cards. For example, having even the United Explorer card makes you eligible for complimentary upgrades when flying on United miles . Both the Gateway and the Explorer cards can also save you money on onboard purchases such as Wi-Fi and snack boxes. Elites are also pretty likely to be able to put the United Explorer’s two annual one-time United Club passes to easy use. The United Business Card is also pretty unique in that it provides a $100 United travel credit after seven United flight purchases of $100 or more per account anniversary year. The ability to charge your way to 1,000 PQPs on several of the United cards is also a tangible perk for United elites who need help requalifying. Truly frequent United flyers would likely be better off with a more premium United card, such as the United Club Infinite Card . Having that card, or the small business equivalent, gets you into the network of United Clubs as you crisscross the globe when you are flying United and its partners. It also awards the most rewards (4 miles per dollar) on United ticket purchases of all United cards, which presumably helps United elites the most. Alternatively, if you’d rather pay a lower annual fee and don’t need lounge access, the United Quest Card could make sense as well, with a 3 miles per dollar on United purchases, a $125 annual credit on United purchases and up to a 10,000-mile annual rebate on United award tickets.

Can you have more than one United Airlines credit card?

Not only can you have more than one United Airlines credit card, but you’re actually incentivized to have a United consumer card and the small business United Business Card to get 5,000 bonus United miles each year. Each United credit card has its own terms and conditions, but typically having one United card doesn’t automatically exclude you from having another. For example, the United Explorer Card terms exclude current cardholders and previous cardholders who received a new bonus in the last 24 months. However, it doesn’t mention the business cards or the higher-end cards. That said, if you’re considering more than one United credit card, factor in the Chase 5/24 restrictions , which can play a role in how many total cards you can open within two years. (Photo by Zach Griff/The Points Guy)

The best credit cards for United Airlines flyers in December 2023

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Editor

Updated

Aug 07, 2024

Most of the cards we feature here are from partners who compensate us when you approve through our site, and this may impact how or where these products appear. We don’t cover all available credit cards, but our analysis, reviews, and opinions are entirely from our editorial team. Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information.

The best United Airlines credit cards offer great perks for those who frequently fly the friendly skies — as well as casual travelers who sometimes find themselves on a United plane. Some United credit cards unlock useful benefits when flying on United and using United MileagePlus miles, while others earn valuable transferable points you can redeem through other reward programs.

Whether you’re looking for ways to optimize your United credit card usage to earn more miles or want to apply for a new card, our guide to the best credit cards for United Airlines flyers will help you find the right fit.

Why Trust Us?

At The Points Guy, our goal is to help you maximize your travel experiences while minimizing spending. Our travel and credit cards experts share their own experiences and give honest analyses to help you make decisions that benefit you the most. While we do receive compensation through our credit card application links, ads, and clearly indicated sponsored content, our editorial content, points valuations and card analysis are entirely our own.

Business Credit Cards

Best for high-spending businesses

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Compare this card

4.5/5

Go to review

Apply now at Chase's secure site

Rewards Rates

3X Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year
1X Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases – with no limit to the amount you can earn

Earn 90,000 bonus points

Annual Fee

$95

APR

21.24% - 26.24% Variable

670-850

Good, Excellent

Why We Chose It

The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card’s sign-up bonus is among the highest we’ve seen from Chase. Plus earn points across the four bonus categories (travel, shipping, advertising and telecommunication providers) that are most popular with businesses. The card comes with travel protections, shopping protections and will also have primary coverage when renting a car for business purposes for you and your employees. Read our full review of the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card.

Pros

One of the highest sign-up bonuses we’ve seen — 100,000 bonus points after $8,000 worth of spend in the first three months after card opening
Access to the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal for points redemption
Reasonable $95 annual fee
Bonus categories that are most relevant to business owners
Primary car insurance
Perks including cellphone and purchase protection
Extended warranty
Trip cancellation/interruption insurance
Trip delay reimbursement

Cons

High spending needed to get 100,000-point sign-up bonus
No travel perks
Subject to Chase's 5/24 rule on card applications

Earn 90k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 cash back or $1,125 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠
Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
Member FDIC

Best for high-spending businesses

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Compare this card

4.5/5

Go to review

Apply now at Chase's secure site

Intro Offer

Earn 90,000 bonus points

Annual Fee

$95

Rewards Rates

1 - 3X points

Recommended Credit

670-850

Good, Excellent

Why We Chose It

Pros

One of the highest sign-up bonuses we’ve seen — 100,000 bonus points after $8,000 worth of spend in the first three months after card opening
Access to the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal for points redemption
Reasonable $95 annual fee
Bonus categories that are most relevant to business owners
Primary car insurance
Perks including cellphone and purchase protection
Extended warranty
Trip cancellation/interruption insurance
Trip delay reimbursement

Cons

High spending needed to get 100,000-point sign-up bonus
No travel perks
Subject to Chase's 5/24 rule on card applications

Earn 90k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 cash back or $1,125 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠
Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
Member FDIC

Pros

One of the highest sign-up bonuses we’ve seen — 100,000 bonus points after $8,000 worth of spend in the first three months after card opening
Access to the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal for points redemption
Reasonable $95 annual fee
Bonus categories that are most relevant to business owners
Primary car insurance
Perks including cellphone and purchase protection
Extended warranty
Trip cancellation/interruption insurance
Trip delay reimbursement

Cons

High spending needed to get 100,000-point sign-up bonus
No travel perks
Subject to Chase's 5/24 rule on card applications

Earn 90k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 cash back or $1,125 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠
Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
Member FDIC

Elevated offer

Best for booking United flights directly

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

Compare this card

4/5

Go to review

Apply now at American Express's secure site

Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees

Rewards Rates

5X 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com
1.5X Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
1X 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.

Earn 150,000 points

Annual Fee

$695

APR

18.99% - 27.99% Variable

670-850

Good, Excellent

Why We Chose It

The Business Platinum Card from American Express is a great card for frequent travelers looking to add a touch of luxury to their business trips. While the card does come with a high annual fee, you’re also getting a ton of valuable benefits in return. They include generous annual travel credits, unparalleled lounge access that includes Amex Centurion Lounges and more. Read our full review on The Business Platinum Card from American Express.

Pros

Up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee every four to five years
Up to $400 annual credit for U.S. Dell purchases
Gold status at Marriott and Hilton hotels (enrollment required)
Access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program and Hotel Collection
International Airline Program and Cruise Privileges Program
Enrollment required for select benefits.

Cons

Steep $695 annual fee
Difficulty meeting $15,000 welcome offer for smaller businesses
Limited high bonus categories outside of travel

Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card®, here.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
$199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $199 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card®.
The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
$695 Annual Fee.
Terms Apply.

Elevated offer

Best for booking United flights directly

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees

Compare this card

4/5

Go to review

Apply now at American Express's secure site

Intro Offer

Earn 150,000 points

Annual Fee

$695

Rewards Rates

1 - 5X points

Recommended Credit

670-850

Good, Excellent

Why We Chose It

Pros

Up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee every four to five years
Up to $400 annual credit for U.S. Dell purchases
Gold status at Marriott and Hilton hotels (enrollment required)
Access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program and Hotel Collection
International Airline Program and Cruise Privileges Program
Enrollment required for select benefits.

Cons

Steep $695 annual fee
Difficulty meeting $15,000 welcome offer for smaller businesses
Limited high bonus categories outside of travel

Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card®, here.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
$199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $199 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card®.
The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
$695 Annual Fee.
Terms Apply.

Pros

Up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee every four to five years
Up to $400 annual credit for U.S. Dell purchases
Gold status at Marriott and Hilton hotels (enrollment required)
Access to the Fine Hotels & Resorts program and Hotel Collection
International Airline Program and Cruise Privileges Program
Enrollment required for select benefits.

Cons

Steep $695 annual fee
Difficulty meeting $15,000 welcome offer for smaller businesses
Limited high bonus categories outside of travel

Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card®, here.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
$199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $199 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card®.
The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
$695 Annual Fee.
Terms Apply.

Best for United business travelers

United℠ Business Card

Compare this card

4/5

Go to review

Apply now at Chase's secure site

Rewards Rates

2X Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases, dining, at gas stations, office supply stores and on local transit and commuting.
1X Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases.

Earn 75,000 bonus miles

Annual Fee

$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.

APR

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

670-850

Excellent/Good

Why We Chose It

If you’re a business owner, the United Business card offers excellent benefits for United flyers while charging a low $99 annual fee ($0 introductory annual fee for the first year). Read our full review of the United Business Card.

Pros

Earn 2 MileagePlus miles per dollar on United Airlines purchases, dining, gas stations, office supply stores and on local transit and commuting and 1 mile per dollar on everything else.
First checked bag free for you and one companion on your reservation.
Two United Club one-time passes each cardmember anniversary.
Travel protections including primary rental car insurance and trip cancellation/interruption insurance.

Cons

$99 annual fee ($0 introductory annual fee for the first year)
Only provides lounge access twice per card member year.

Earn 75,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.
Receive a 5,000-mile "better together" bonus each anniversary when you have both the United℠ Business Card and a personal Chase United® credit card.
Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases, dining including eligible delivery services, at gas stations, office supply stores, and on local transit and commuting.
Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. Plus, employee cards at no additional cost - miles earned from their purchases accrue in your account so you can earn rewards faster.
Enjoy a free first checked bag - a savings of up to $160 per roundtrip (terms apply), 2 United ClubSM one-time passes per year, and priority boarding privileges.
$100 United® travel credit after 7 United flight purchases of $100 or more each anniversary year.
Member FDIC

Best for United business travelers

United℠ Business Card

Compare this card

4/5

Go to review

Apply now at Chase's secure site

Intro Offer

Earn 75,000 bonus miles

Annual Fee

$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.

Rewards Rates

1 - 2X points

Recommended Credit

670-850

Excellent/Good

Why We Chose It

Pros

Earn 2 MileagePlus miles per dollar on United Airlines purchases, dining, gas stations, office supply stores and on local transit and commuting and 1 mile per dollar on everything else.
First checked bag free for you and one companion on your reservation.
Two United Club one-time passes each cardmember anniversary.
Travel protections including primary rental car insurance and trip cancellation/interruption insurance.

Cons

$99 annual fee ($0 introductory annual fee for the first year)
Only provides lounge access twice per card member year.

Earn 75,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.
Receive a 5,000-mile "better together" bonus each anniversary when you have both the United℠ Business Card and a personal Chase United® credit card.
Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases, dining including eligible delivery services, at gas stations, office supply stores, and on local transit and commuting.
Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. Plus, employee cards at no additional cost - miles earned from their purchases accrue in your account so you can earn rewards faster.
Enjoy a free first checked bag - a savings of up to $160 per roundtrip (terms apply), 2 United ClubSM one-time passes per year, and priority boarding privileges.
$100 United® travel credit after 7 United flight purchases of $100 or more each anniversary year.
Member FDIC

Pros

Earn 2 MileagePlus miles per dollar on United Airlines purchases, dining, gas stations, office supply stores and on local transit and commuting and 1 mile per dollar on everything else.
First checked bag free for you and one companion on your reservation.
Two United Club one-time passes each cardmember anniversary.
Travel protections including primary rental car insurance and trip cancellation/interruption insurance.

Cons

$99 annual fee ($0 introductory annual fee for the first year)
Only provides lounge access twice per card member year.

Earn 75,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.
Receive a 5,000-mile "better together" bonus each anniversary when you have both the United℠ Business Card and a personal Chase United® credit card.
Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases, dining including eligible delivery services, at gas stations, office supply stores, and on local transit and commuting.
Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. Plus, employee cards at no additional cost - miles earned from their purchases accrue in your account so you can earn rewards faster.
Enjoy a free first checked bag - a savings of up to $160 per roundtrip (terms apply), 2 United ClubSM one-time passes per year, and priority boarding privileges.
$100 United® travel credit after 7 United flight purchases of $100 or more each anniversary year.
Member FDIC

Comparing the best United credit cards

Credit card	Best for	Intro offer	Earning Rate	Annual Fee
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card See details Apply now	Best for flexible travel rewards	$300 Chase Travel℠ Credit + 60,000 bonus points	1 - 5X points 1 - 5X points details	$95	Apply now See details
United℠ Explorer Card United℠ Explorer Card See details Apply now	Best for occasional United flyers	Earn 50,000 bonus miles	1 - 2X miles 1 - 2X miles details	$0 Intro for First Year, then $95.	Apply now See details
The Platinum Card® from American Express The Platinum Card® from American Express See details Apply now	Best for lounge access around the world	Earn 80,000 points	5X points 5X points details	$695	Apply now See details
Chase Sapphire Reserve® Chase Sapphire Reserve® See details Apply now	Best for frequent United flyers	60,000 bonus points	1 - 10X points 1 - 10X points details	$550	Apply now See details
Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card See details Apply now	Best for high-spending businesses	Earn 90,000 bonus points	1 - 3X points 1 - 3X points details	$95	Apply now See details
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express The Business Platinum Card® from American Express See details Apply now	Best for booking United flights directly	Earn 150,000 points	1 - 5X points 1 - 5X points details	$695	Apply now See details
United Club℠ Infinite Card United Club℠ Infinite Card See details Apply now	Best for United Club access	Earn 80,000 bonus miles	1 - 4X points 1 - 4X points details	$525	Apply now See details
United Gateway℠ Card United Gateway℠ Card See details Apply now	Best for entry-level United benefits	Earn 20,000 bonus miles	1 - 2X points 1 - 2X points details	$0	Apply now See details
United Quest℠ Card United Quest℠ Card See details Apply now	Best for frequent United flyers	Earn 60,000 bonus miles	1 - 3X points 1 - 3X points details	$250	Apply now See details
United℠ Business Card United℠ Business Card See details Apply now	Best for United Business travelers	Earn 75,000 bonus miles	1 - 2X points 1 - 2X points details	$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $99.	Apply now See details

Frequently asked questions

If you are only going to have one rewards credit card in your wallet, a United card is probably not it. If you’re looking for a single card, I’d recommend a more flexible option. For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card earns points that can be used for United without locking you into one program.

But, if you fly United at least once or twice per year, then having a United card in your wallet likely makes sense. It can save you money on bag fees and inflight purchases, as well as open up access to less expensive awards. In fact, we think that having a United card in your family is a really good strategy.

If you don’t have elite status with United but fly the airline occasionally, the United Explorer Card and the United Business Card are great choices with valuable perks like a free checked bag, priority boarding and a couple of one-time United Club passes each year. The access to increased Saver award space is another tangible perk.

If you have any elite status level with United, some of the features outlined above are redundant. If you are really choosy about what’s in your wallet, you’d probably be better off with a card like Chase Sapphire Preferred, which has the same $95 annual fee but offers 2 points per dollar on United tickets and all travel purchases (plus 3 points per dollar on dining, select streaming services and online grocery deliveries).

If you can use the Chase Sapphire Reserve $300 annual travel credit, the Sapphire Reserve will likely be a better choice because it offers 3 points per dollar on travel and dining and better travel protections. The Ink Business Preferred could also be a no-brainer for any small-business owner who wants to earn a lot of points on common business purchases and then transfer those earnings to United at a 1:1 ratio.

Those who want regular United Club access will be well-served by the United Club Infinite Card, which also offers 4 miles per dollar spent with United and premium travel perks.

Related: How to transfer Ultimate Rewards points between accounts
TPG values United miles at 1.45 cents each. When United switched to more dynamic award prices, some awards got more expensive while others during less popular periods got less expensive. Overall, this made the miles a bit less valuable, especially for those who like to use miles during peak travel periods or to fly in the fancy seats upfront.

However, there are still tremendous award values to be had with United miles. For example, we recently locked in awards from Houston (IAH) to Orange County (SNA) for 7,000 miles each way and lie-flat seats to Hawaii for 60,000 miles each. Even in the good seats, partner award flights are still priced at relatively fixed amounts, so you can fly to Europe, Asia, Australia, and beyond in first or business class on partners for pretty static numbers of United miles.

For inspiration, here are some of the best ways to use United miles.

Lufthansa First Class. (photo by Zach Honig/The Points Guy)
While you might want one for the welcome bonus or the everyday earning capabilities, the truth is that the entry-level United cards, such as the United Gateway and the United Explorer Card, don’t offer a ton of unique benefits that United elite flyers won’t already have due to their elite status. Early boarding, free checked bags, expanded saver award access, etc., are all pretty useless card perks for those with United elite status.

However, there are a few reasons for elites to consider the entry-level United cards. For example, having even the United Explorer card makes you eligible for complimentary upgrades when flying on United miles. Both the Gateway and the Explorer cards can also save you money on onboard purchases such as Wi-Fi and snack boxes. Elites are also pretty likely to be able to put the United Explorer’s two annual one-time United Club passes to easy use. The United Business Card is also pretty unique in that it provides a $100 United travel credit after seven United flight purchases of $100 or more per account anniversary year.

The ability to charge your way to 1,000 PQPs on several of the United cards is also a tangible perk for United elites who need help requalifying.

Truly frequent United flyers would likely be better off with a more premium United card, such as the United Club Infinite Card. Having that card, or the small business equivalent, gets you into the network of United Clubs as you crisscross the globe when you are flying United and its partners. It also awards the most rewards (4 miles per dollar) on United ticket purchases of all United cards, which presumably helps United elites the most.

Alternatively, if you’d rather pay a lower annual fee and don’t need lounge access, the United Quest Card could make sense as well, with a 3 miles per dollar on United purchases, a $125 annual credit on United purchases and up to a 10,000-mile annual rebate on United award tickets.
Not only can you have more than one United Airlines credit card, but you’re actually incentivized to have a United consumer card and the small business United Business Card to get 5,000 bonus United miles each year.

Each United credit card has its own terms and conditions, but typically having one United card doesn’t automatically exclude you from having another. For example, the United Explorer Card terms exclude current cardholders and previous cardholders who received a new bonus in the last 24 months. However, it doesn’t mention the business cards or the higher-end cards.

That said, if you’re considering more than one United credit card, factor in the Chase 5/24 restrictions, which can play a role in how many total cards you can open within two years.

(Photo by Zach Griff/The Points Guy)

More details on our best United credit cards

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Sign-up offer: The current sign-up bonus is 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Bonus valuation: $1,200.

Annual fee: $95.

Reasons to get it: The Chase Sapphire Preferred offers 2 points per dollar on all other travel purchases and 3 points per dollar on dining purchases (not just United tickets).

You can then transfer your Chase points to United or have a more than dozen other airline and hotel programs from which to choose. You can also book flights and other travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal, but you’ll only get a value of 1.25 cents each for your points.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card also features primary rental car insurance and some solid purchase-protection benefits.

See TPG‘s full Chase Sapphire Preferred review for more details.

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Official application link: Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.

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The Platinum Card® from American Express

Welcome offer: 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in your first six months of card membership. However, you may be targeted for an up to 125,000-point bonus offer through CardMatch (offers subject to change at any time).

Bonus valuation: $1,600 (potentially more with targeted offers).

Annual fee: $695 (see rates and fees).

Reasons to get it: Although you can’t transfer the Membership Rewards points earned with this card to United MileagePlus, you can transfer them to Star Alliance partners Air Canada Aeroplan, Singapore KrisFlyer and Avianca LifeMiles. You can then use these miles to book award tickets on United-operated flights.

The Platinum Card earns 5 Membership Rewards points per dollar on all flights (up to $500,000 per calendar year) booked directly with airlines or with Amex Travel, as well as prepaid hotels booked with Amex Travel. Other cardholder benefits include an up to $200 annual statement credit toward incidental airline fees (although not actual airfare), monthly Uber cash (on U.S. services), biannual Saks Fifth Avenue statement credits, Marriott elite status, Hilton elite status, Centurion Lounge access and Priority Pass Select membership. Enrollment is required for select benefits.

See TPG‘s full Amex Platinum review for more details.

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Official application link: The Platinum Card® from American Express.

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United Explorer Card

Sign-up offer: The personal United Explorer Card offers a sign-up bonus of 60,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open.

Bonus valuation: $870

Annual fee: $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.

Reasons to get it: The United Explorer card has some outstanding features not found with other airline cards at its annual fee price point. You’ll earn 2 miles per dollar spent on restaurants, hotels and United purchases and offers 1 mile per dollar spent on everything else.

Other perks include a free checked bag for you and one companion on the same reservation, as long as you purchase your ticket (or pay taxes and fees on an award ticket) from United using the Explorer Card. You’ll also get priority boarding, two one-time United Club passes each year, a 25% discount on inflight United purchases — including Wi-Fi, food and beverages — and access to additional award space and less expensive award flights.

The United Explorer Card allows you to earn up to 1,000 elite Premier Qualifying Points (PQPs) with $24,000 in annual spending on the card. If you find yourself pushing for a higher elite status level or are chasing status for the first time, your card spending can help you more than normal, especially since elite thresholds have been reduced by around 25%.

Having a United co-branded credit card, such as the United Explorer, also makes you eligible for space-available elite upgrades when flying on United miles.

See TPG‘s full United Explorer Card review for more details.

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Official application link: United Explorer Card.

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United Club Infinite Card

Sign-up offer: Earn 90,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Bonus valuation: $1,305.

Annual fee: $525.

Reasons to get it: As its name implies, United Club Infinite cardholders enjoy United Club membership, including access for two guests or one adult and dependent children under the age of 21 (here are a few of our favorite United Clubs to be sure you don’t miss).

While it has previously offered no welcome bonus in exchange for $0 intro annual fee the first year, that has changed. The card now offers 90,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. TPG values United miles at 1.45 cents each, so the 90,000 bonus miles are well worth the $525 annual fee, especially when factoring in the lounge access.

It also offers the first and second checked bag free for the primary cardholder and one companion traveling on the same reservation on United-operated flights when they are purchased with the card. Other perks include an up to $100 TSA PreCheck/Global Entry application fee credit every four years, Premier Access travel services, expanded award availability and lower average award prices.

The United Club Infinite Card earns 4 miles per dollar on United purchases, 2 miles per dollar on all other travel and dining purchases (including eligible delivery services), and 1 mile per dollar on all other purchases. Although you will likely get more value by using another card for everyday spending, the United Club Infinite Card is a great way to rack up additional United miles when you fly with the airline.

On top of the 4 miles per dollar, the United Infinite is a great card for your United ticket purchases because of the built-in trip delay and trip cancellation benefits that will have your back in the event of a covered problem along the way.

Last but not least, those who care about elite status can be well-served with the United Club Infinite Card. The card has the same earning potential for United PQPs as the new Quest Card — up to 3,000 per year in 500-point increments for each $12,000 put on the card.

As with the other United credit cards, having this card makes United elites eligible for space-available upgrades when flying on United miles.

See TPG‘s full United Club Infinite Card review for more details.

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Official application link: United Club Infinite Card.

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Chase Sapphire Reserve

Sign-up offer: 60,000 points after you spend $4,000 in the first three months of account opening.

Bonus valuation: $1,200.

Annual fee: $550.

Reasons to get it: Since Chase Ultimate Rewards points transfer to United at a 1:1 ratio, this card can be a great choice if you’re eyeing future award travel with United. Or, if you prefer the simplicity of cash fares, you can redeem your points for 1.5 cents each when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals or cruises through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal. The United flights you book through the Chase portal should count for getting you closer to United elite status and also earn redeemable miles.

The Sapphire Reserve earns 3 points per dollar on all other travel purchases (excluding those that are covered by the card’s $300 travel credit) and dining purchases and 1 point per dollar on everything else. If you spend a lot on these two categories, you could be ready to book a flight in no time.

The card has a high $550 annual fee, but that’s offset by a $300 annual travel credit that will automatically be applied to any eligible purchases — from airfare to hotel stays to sightseeing tours. You’ll get lounge access through Priority Pass Select membership, and the card’s excellent travel protections will cover you when you put the airfare — or the taxes and fees on award flights — on your card.

See TPG‘s full review of Chase Sapphire Reserve for more details.

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Official application link: Chase Sapphire Reserve.

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The Business Platinum Card from American Express

Welcome offer: Earn 120,000 points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases within the first three months of card membership.

Bonus valuation: $2,400.

Annual fee: $695 (see rates and fees).

Reasons to get it: This might not seem like a great fit for United flyers, but hear us out. This card offers you 5 points per dollar on all flights with United booked via Amex Travel, as well as any airline or prepaid hotel booked with Amex Travel. You can then transfer these points to Star Alliance partners like Singapore, Air Canada or Avianca to book award flights. In particular, Avianca LifeMiles is the only other Star Alliance program besides United that doesn’t impose fuel surcharges on awards.

Better yet, you can designate United as your carrier of choice to receive an up to $200 annual credit for air travel fees on one selected airline. When you do that, you’ll be able to use the Pay with Points redemption option to use your Membership Rewards points for any United flights and receive a 35% rebate (up to 1 million points back per calendar year). This allows you to realize just over 1.5 cents per point, which isn’t too bad, considering you don’t have to worry about finding available award space.

You’ll also receive the 35% points rebate when you book a flight on any airline in business or first class using American Express Travel. Because these are revenue flights, you’ll earn miles and credit toward MileagePlus Premier status and have the opportunity to receive upgrades not afforded by award flights.

See TPG‘s full Amex Business Platinum review for more details.

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Official application link: The Business Platinum Card from American Express.

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Ink Business Preferred Credit Card

Sign-up offer: 100,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first three months after account opening.

Bonus valuation: $2,000.

Annual fee: $95.

Reasons to get it: This business card is extremely popular among award travel enthusiasts, as it offers 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases in certain categories like travel, shipping, internet, cable and phone services and advertising purchases made with social media sites, and 1 point per dollar on everything else. There are no foreign transaction fees with this card.

You can book flights and other travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal, but you’ll only get a value of 1.25 cents each for your points. So, you may get better value by transferring your points to United or Star Alliance partner Singapore KrisFlyer if you want to use your Ultimate Rewards points to book a United-operated flight.

See TPG‘s full review of the Ink Business Preferred Card for more details.

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Official application link: Ink Business Preferred Credit Card.

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United Quest Card

Sign-up offer: The United Quest Card is offering a bonus of 70,000 bonus miles and 500 Premier qualifying points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open.

Bonus valuation: $1,015.

Annual fee: $250.

Reasons to get it: With a $250 annual fee, it’s the perfect hybrid between the mid-tier United Explorer Card and the premium United Club Infinite Card. It offers you 3 miles per dollar on United purchases (immediately after earning your $125 annual United purchase credit), 2 miles per dollar on all other travel (including Star Alliance purchases), select streaming services and restaurants and 1 mile per dollar spent on everything else.

Key benefits of the card include a $125 annual United purchase credit, as well as up to 10,000 miles back each year — you’ll automatically get 5,000 miles back into your account after the first two United award flights you take per anniversary year. You’ll also get a free first and second checked bag, an up to $100 TSA PreCheck/Global Entry application fee credit every four years, priority boarding, trip protection, expanded award availability and lower average award prices.

The Quest card allows you to earn 3,000 PQPs towards elite status with $72,000 in total credit card spending. The card also makes United elites eligible for space-available upgrades when flying on United.

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Official application link: United Quest Card.

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United Business Card

Sign-up offer: Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open.

Bonus valuation: $725

Annual fee: Introductory annual fee of $0 for the first year, then $99.

Reasons to get it: This card offers you 2 miles per dollar on United purchases, on local transit and commuting, and at restaurants, gas stations and office supply stores, and 1 mile per dollar spent on everything else. You’ll also get a free checked bag for you and one companion on the same reservation, priority boarding, two one-time United Club passes each year and additional award space on United-operated flights.

Even better, if you hold both the business card and a personal United card, you’ll receive 5,000 bonus miles each anniversary. Finally, you have the ability to earn an annual $100 United travel credit after seven United flight purchases of $100 or more and you’ll get a rebate of 25% back of United inflight purchases (includes Wi-Fi, food and beverages).

The United Business Card allows you to earn 1,000 PQPs with $24,000 in total credit card spending. Having this card also makes United elites eligible for space-available upgrades when flying on United.

See TPG‘s full United Business Card review for more details.

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Official application link: United Business Card.

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United Gateway Card

Sign-up offer: The United Gateway Card offers 30,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open.

Bonus valuation: $435.

Annual fee: $0

Reasons to get it: The United Gateway is United’s only no-annual-fee card currently available. It earns 2 miles per dollar spent at gas stations, local transit, commuting and United purchases and 1 mile per dollar spent on everything else. Those are some solid bonus categories for a cobranded airline card with no annual fee.

The card also offers some valuable perks that can help you save cash when traveling. As a cardholder, you’ll get a 25% discount on inflight United purchases — including Wi-Fi, food and beverages — and pay no foreign transaction fees for purchases made outside the U.S. Additionally, this card offers up to $6,000 in trip cancellation and interruption insurance (up to $1,500 per person) if your trip is canceled or cut short by covered reasons like sickness or injury.

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Official application link: United Gateway Card.

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Bottom line

By examining your travel needs, elite status goals, spending habits and preferences, United flyers can choose the credit card (or cards) that offers the best combination of rewards and benefits. You have lots of options when it comes to choosing the best card as a United flyer.

For most occasional United Airlines flyers, the United Explorer Card will be the way to save miles on United awards, save on bag fees, ensure some early boarding and give a nice boost to your MileagePlus account balance with its sign-up bonus of 60,000 bonus miles. That said, for effectively $30 more (after factoring in the $125 credit), it could also make sense to get the United Quest Card, which offers a second free checked bag, an up to 10,000-mile rebate and more bonus categories. Meanwhile, if you’re just starting out or want a no-annual-fee card with a few perks, then consider the United Gateway card.

If you have a small business, the answer for which is best will be different.

Then there’s also option B: Get a more flexible travel card. For example, The Platinum Card from American Express awards 5 Membership Rewards points per dollar on United Airlines ticket purchases (made directly with the airline) and includes Priority Pass access. The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is another great choice for travelers who want some built-in travel protections and bonus points that can be transferred to United Airlines, without being locked into one airline.

Additional reporting by Madison Blancaflor.

For rates and fees of the Platinum Card, please click here.

For rates and fees of the Amex Business Platinum, please click here.

Keep reading

New United credit card launches with huge 100k-mile sign-up bonus, unique perks

Premium perks without a high annual fee: United Explorer Card review

Best for loyal flyers: United Club Infinite Card review

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