When you're looking to apply for a credit card, you may wonder: "How good is the welcome offer I'm applying for?"

There's no simple answer to this question, but knowing the previous offers a card has had can help you determine what a good welcome offer is. Getting any welcome offer is better than getting nothing at all, but you wouldn't want to apply for a card and then see a higher offer a month later.

We've collected and analyzed the offer history over the past few years for Capital One's most popular cards and determined the best time to apply for each card.

It's important to note that we'll only discuss publicly available welcome offers. However, you might receive targeted offers that offer more bonus miles or cash back. Keep in mind that offers may change at any time, and some of those mentioned below may not be available.

Best Capital One credit card welcome bonuses

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card earns an unlimited 2 miles per dollar spent on every purchase, plus 5 miles per dollar spent on hotels, rental cars and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel.

The card's modest $95 annual fee, simple earning structure and solid return on everyday spending make it a keeper once you're approved for it.

Here are the offers we've seen on the Capital One Venture Rewards:

Welcome offer history

*Bonus offer value is based on TPG's June 2026 valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.

Highest welcome offer

The highest offer we've seen on this card allowed new cardholders to earn up to 100,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.

When to apply for this card

When the bonus offer is 75,000 bonus miles or higher, it meets our criteria on when to apply.

Learn more: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture Business

The Capital One Venture Business card is a straightforward option for business owners who want consistent travel rewards without tracking bonus categories. With a $95 annual fee, it offers simple earning rates, easy-to-use credits and flexible redemption options that help offset the cost year after year.

While it doesn't come with premium perks like lounge access, its simplicity and solid earning structure make it a reliable long-term choice for everyday business spending.

Welcome offer history

*Bonus offer value is based on TPG's June 2026 valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.

Highest welcome offer

The Venture Business's launch offer of up to 150,000 miles (75,000 miles after spending $7,500 on purchases in the first three months, and an additional 75,000 miles once you spend $30,000 on purchases in the first six months) is the best offer we've seen so far.

When to apply for this card

As a recently launched card, the Venture Business has only two bonus offers. Since there's limited historical data, we recommend applying when the base bonus is 100,000 miles or higher.

Learn more: Capital One Venture Business

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

With plentiful, easy-to-understand perks, the Capital One Venture X is a no-brainer for all travelers, from luxury seekers to the more budget-minded, and the card practically pays for itself year after year.

Though the card carries a $395 annual fee, it offers a $300 annual credit toward bookings made through Capital One Travel and rewards cardholders with 10,000 bonus miles each account anniversary.

Here are the offers we've seen on the Capital One Venture X:

Welcome offer history

*Bonus offer value is based on TPG's June 2026 valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.

Highest welcome offer

The highest offer we've seen on this card offered 100,000 bonus miles earned after spending $10,000 on purchases within the first six months of account opening.

When to apply for this card

When the bonus offer is 75,000 miles or higher, it's a good time to apply.

Learn more: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture X Business

The Venture X Business launched in early 2023 with an incredible welcome bonus and a matching sky-high spending requirement.

The Venture X Business carries the same $395 annual fee as the personal version and offers the same major perks, including a $300 annual travel credit for bookings made through Capital One Business Travel and access to Capital One and participating Priority Pass lounges. It also carries the same earning rates as the Venture X.

Here are the offers we've seen on the Capital One Venture X Business:

Welcome offer history

*Bonus offer value is based on TPG's June 2026 valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.

Highest welcome offer

The highest offer we've seen on this card is up to 400,000 bonus miles: Earn 200,000 miles after spending $30,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening, plus an additional 200,000 miles after spending $150,000 on purchases in the first six months.

When to apply for this card

When the bonus offer is 150,000 miles or higher, it meets our criteria for when to apply.

Learn more: Capital One Venture X Business

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

While it comes with fewer perks, the Capital One VentureOne Rewards offers the same great redemption options as its sister cards, the Capital One Venture Rewards and the Capital One Venture X, with no annual fee. You'll earn a flat 1.25 miles per dollar spent on everyday purchases.

Here are the offers we've seen on the Capital One VentureOne Rewards:

Welcome offer history

*Bonus offer value is based on TPG's June 2026 valuations and not provided by the credit card issuer.

Highest welcome offer

The highest offer we've seen allowed new cardholders to earn 40,000 bonus miles after spending $1,000 in the first three months of account opening.

When to apply for this card

When the bonus offer is 20,000 miles or higher, it meets our criteria to apply.

Learn more: Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card

The biggest downsides to cash-back cards are low earning rates and a lack of bonus categories, but that's definitely not true of the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards.

For no annual fee, the Savor offers strong cash-back earning rates on popular and often overlooked categories, including 3% back on dining, entertainment and popular streaming services.

Here are the offers we've seen on the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards:

Highest welcome offer

The highest offer we've seen included a $100 Capital One Travel credit to use in the first year. Plus, new cardholders could receive a $200 cash bonus after spending $500 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.

When to apply for this card

When the bonus offer is $200 or higher, it meets our criteria for when to apply.

Learn more: Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards is another great card with no annual fee. It earns a reliable 1.5% cash back on all purchases, making it a perfect go-to card for the odd purchase that doesn't fit in any bonus categories.

While many other cards offer higher earning potential in specific spending categories, this card offers the safety of knowing you'll earn a solid 1.5% back no matter what you buy.

Here are the offers we've seen on the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards:

Highest welcome offer

The highest offer we've seen included a $100 Capital One Travel credit to use in the first year. Plus, new cardholders could receive a $200 cash bonus after spending $500 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.

When to apply for this card

When the bonus offer is $200 or higher, it meets our criteria for when to apply.

Learn more: Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Spark Cash Plus

The Capital One Spark Cash Plus earns 2% cash back on all purchases and is ideal for business owners who want to earn reliable cash-back rewards on all their expenses. It is worth noting that this is a no preset spending limit card, meaning cardholders must pay off their balances in full each month.

The card has a modest $150 annual fee that can be refunded when you spend at least $150,000.

Here are the offers we've seen on the Capital One Spark Cash Plus:

Welcome offer history

Highest welcome offer

The highest welcome offer we've seen on this card offered up to $3,000: $500 after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening and $2,500 after spending $50,000 on purchases in the first six months from account opening.

When to apply for this card

When the bonus is $1,000 or higher, it meets our criteria to apply.

Learn more: Capital One Spark Cash Plus

Bottom line

Before you go fill out a Capital One credit card application, you'll want to ensure you can get the best welcome bonus possible. We've collected data year over year on Capital One welcome offers that can provide you with some guidance on the best time to apply.

This guide can serve as a reference for the best time to apply for your next Capital One card.

Check out our other offer history guides when you're looking to apply for your next credit card:

• The best time to apply for these popular Chase credit cards based on offer history
• The best time to apply for these popular American Express credit cards based on offer history
• The best time to apply for these popular Citi credit cards based on offer history

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

Hilton loyalists, listen up: There's a brand-new points hotel now available for booking on Kauai, Hawaii.

Hale Hokuala Kauai, a Curio Collection by Hilton property, debuts on Hawaii's "Garden Island" later this year and is now accepting reservations for stays beginning October 1, 2026. It will be the first Curio Collection hotel in the Aloha State.

Hale Hokuala (which means "house of the rising star," in Hawaiian) is a brand new construction, which is a rarity in Hawaii. The decor was inspired by the island's culture and nature, and you'll also see mature monkeypod and banyan trees throughout the property.

The 210-room hotel is in the Hokuala Resort community overlooking Nawiliwili Bay and the Pacific Ocean. "From the moment guests arrive, Hale Hokuala Kauai will immerse them in the spirit of our culture," said Jon Itoga, the new hotel's general manager, in a statement.

As you can see in the photo above, the hotel offers access to the Ocean Course at Hokuala, a Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course with views of the ocean.

The property will have a Portuguese and Hawaiian-inspired restaurant and an open-air lobby gathering spot.

The hotel was designed by Hart Howerton in collaboration with AHL (formerly Architects Hawaii), and the rooms feature light colors, tropical photos and blue patterned carpets throughout, which the hotel said reflect the sand, greenery, sky and water of the region. Interiors are by Looney and Associates.

Among the 210 rooms, there are 23 suites, so those with Hilton Honors Diamond status could get lucky and score an upgrade.

If you want to use those Hilton Honors points, standard rates start at 95,000 points per night. Cash rates start at $562. I expect the prices will moderate over time.

The hotel features an outdoor pool with a pool bar, a fitness center, tennis and pickleball courts and access to miles of hiking trails.

The hotel is also not far from Kauai's Lihue Airport (LIH) and resorts like Timbers Kauai Ocean Club and Residences and Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort.

Bottom line

There's a new points property opening soon on Kauai that could make a great home base for exploring this beautiful island.

While prices are pretty high in the opening months of the property, I expect prices will come down over time. it could also be a great use of some of those Hilton Honors points burning a hole in your pocket.

Related reading:

• The award traveler's guide to Hilton Honors
• How to choose the best Hilton credit card for you
• What is Hilton Honors elite status worth?
• The best credit cards to reach elite status
• Which credit cards offer the most lucrative rewards for hotel stays?
• The best hotel rewards programs in the world
• Best hotel credit cards

Frontier Airlines is making its latest push to fill the void left by Spirit Airlines.

The Denver-based budget airline on Tuesday revealed it's adding two western U.S. routes formerly served by its defunct low-cost competitor. That includes making its return to one Bay Area airport for the first time in three years.

Later this summer, Frontier will re-launch service from Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport (OAK), where it last flew in 2023.

The carrier will make its return east of the bay with nonstop flights to one of the most tried-and-true markets of low-cost flying: Las Vegas.

It's a route Spirit flew in the months prior to its collapse on May 1.

Frontier is also adding new Sin City service from Boise, Idaho — another route Spirit used to fly.

The move comes as the airline looks to win over customers hoping to fly on a budget in the wake of Spirit's collapse.

"We are laser-focused on redefining what consumers can expect from low-fare travel," Frontier vice president of network and operations design Josh Flyr said in a statement announcing the news.

Read more: Spirit is gone. Can the other budget airlines survive?

Details: Frontier's new routes

Here's a quick rundown of the two new (well, returning) routes Frontier will launch later this year:

A much-needed boost for Oakland

Frontier is leaning heavily into its returning Oakland-Las Vegas route, which it'll fly 11 times each week. I'd expect to see the most frequencies on high-demand leisure travel days like Fridays and Sundays.

Frontier operated Las Vegas service during its previous stint at OAK.

I'll be curious to see if the carrier adds additional service from the airport. This time two years ago, Spirit had a decent-sized presence east of the bay, flying from Oakland to Las Vegas, San Diego, Burbank and Orange County, California; it also operated transcontinental service to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).

Frontier's return to Oakland is good news for the airport, too, which has seen both Spirit's folding and a notable pullback by Southwest Airlines, which has deprioritized OAK in recent years.

This year, Southwest's total departures from the airport were set to be down over 20% versus two years ago, according to data from aviation analytics firm Cirium.

Replacing Spirit in Boise

Oakland isn't the only place Frontier is filling Spirit's void.

Spirit also served Boise-Las Vegas service prior to its shutdown.

Frontier already overlapped with its former top rival on more than 100 routes, executives said last month — "uniquely positioning us to recapture the demand they left behind," CEO James Dempsey said.

Dempsey in May said the carrier would be "disciplined" in taking over routes (or assets) left behind by Spirit as the airline liquidates.

Bottom line

While it's been a few years since Frontier has flown from Oakland, the carrier hasn't been a stranger to the Bay Area as a whole.

The airline currently operates service from both San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC).

Related reading:

• When is the best time to book flights for the cheapest airfare?
• The best airline credit cards
• Which US airline is best? TPG's 2026 rankings
• Flight delayed or canceled? Here's what to do
• The best credit cards to reach elite status
• What are points and miles worth? TPG's monthly valuations
• Spirit is gone. Can the other budget airlines survive?

The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card is a good choice for Delta Air Lines flyers who want solid perks at a mid-tier annual fee point. The card's annual companion certificate, free checked bags (the first bag is free worldwide and the second bag on domestic U.S. flights) and elite status boost help offset the $350 annual fee (see rates and fees) for frequent flyers. Card rating*: ⭐⭐⭐½

*Card rating is based on the opinion of TPG's editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.

Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex: The basics

The Delta Platinum is a mid-tier option for Delta flyers who travel with the airline frequently enough to offset the annual fee through the card's benefits.

The airline-specific perks on the Delta Platinum include an annual companion certificate, free checked bags (the first bag is free worldwide and the second bag on domestic U.S. flights), priority boarding and a fast-track to Delta Medallion elite status through spending. If you book an expensive fare with your companion certificate, that one benefit alone could potentially offset the annual fee.

The Delta Platinum is a cobranded card between Delta and American Express. It earns Delta SkyMiles redeemable for flights on Delta and fellow SkyTeam alliance members, such as Air France and Virgin Atlantic, as well as some nonalliance partners.

TPG recommends a good to excellent credit score for this card.

Let's dive into the details to determine if the Delta Platinum Amex would be a good addition to your wallet.

Related: Best Airlines Report 2026: Delta edges out rivals to win for eighth straight year

Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex pros and cons

Related: Delta brings back Costa Rica route from New York JFK, 10 years later

Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex benefits

The Delta Platinum provides a solid suite of benefits for a mid-tier airline card. Here are the highlights. (Enrollment is required for select benefits.)

Annual companion certificate

The Delta Platinum's annual companion certificate is a cardmember-favorite benefit that you receive each year after your account renewal. When you use the companion certificate, you'll pay only taxes and fees for a second ticket when you purchase one adult round-trip ticket.

There are just a few important restrictions. The Delta companion certificate is only valid for round-trip, domestic travel in the main cabin (booked in fare classes L, T, U, V or X). It excludes basic economy tickets (booked into the E fare class) and most higher-priced economy classes, so you'll want to double-check that your fare is eligible before you rely on the certificate.

This perk covers travel to all 50 U.S. states (including Alaska and Hawaii), as well as flights to the Caribbean, Central America and Mexico.

Partnerships director Sophia Fen said the value she gets from this benefit (paired with the TakeOff 15 perk on all Delta cobranded cards to save on award flights) often covers the $350 annual fee.

Elite status perks

The Delta Platinum is a good card for SkyMiles members pursuing elite status, thanks to its Medallion Qualification Dollar boost and the unlimited MQDs you can earn through spending.

Cardmembers receive 2,500 MQDs at the start of each Medallion qualification year. They also earn 1 MQD for every $20 spent, with no limit on how many MQDs you can earn through credit card spending.

Preflight and inflight benefits

The Delta Platinum shines when it comes to preflight and inflight perks.

These include:

• Two free checked bags for the cardmember (and up to eight companions) traveling on the same reservation (the first bag is free worldwide and the second bag on domestic U.S. flights)
• Zone 5 priority boarding
• Access to the TakeOff 15 perk, which provides a 15% discount on award redemptions for Delta flights
• 20% off inflight purchases (excluding Wi-Fi purchases)

Other travel perks

There are other ways to help offset the Delta Platinum's annual fee, including maximizing these benefits:

• Up to $150 in Delta Stays statement credit every calendar year for eligible bookings
• Up to $10 in monthly Resy statement credit (up to $120 per calendar year) for use at eligible U.S. Resy restaurants
• Up to $10 in monthly ride-hailing credit with select providers (up to $120 per calendar year) for U.S. ride-hailing purchases
• A $120 statement credit for Global Entry or up to $85 for TSA PreCheck every four years
• Hertz Five Star status*

(Enrollment is required for select benefits.)

*Enrollment in the Hertz Gold+ Rewards Program is required; terms apply.

The card also charges no foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees), making it a solid choice to take abroad.

Related: Is the Delta Platinum Amex worth the annual fee?

How to earn and use SkyMiles

With the Delta Platinum, you'll earn:

• 3 miles per dollar spent on Delta purchases and purchases made directly with hotels
• 2 miles per dollar spent at restaurants worldwide (including delivery and takeout in the U.S.) and at U.S. supermarkets
• 1 mile per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases

This is a decent suite of bonus categories, though it's worth noting that SkyMiles aren't among the most valuable airline miles.

According to TPG's June 2026 valuations, Delta SkyMiles are worth 1.2 cents apiece. This means that spending on the Delta Platinum will get you a 3.6% return on Delta and hotel purchases, 2.4% back at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets and 1.2% back on everything else — generally less competitive than what many transferable points cards offer.

This relatively low valuation is likely due to Delta dynamically pricing its award flights, which means redemption rates often fluctuate with demand, rather than using a fixed award chart.

Even still, you can find some solid deals for certain routes on select dates. And, if your travel dates are flexible, you can use Delta's award calendar to find cheaper award flights — especially around one of Delta's frequent award deals.

TPG's tentpoles managing editor, Madison Blancaflor, recently used 40,500 SkyMiles for a round-trip economy ticket from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport (LIT) in Little Rock, Arkansas, for her siblings' graduation. She said the cash price would've been $700.

You can also redeem SkyMiles for luxury trips, like TPG principal spokesperson Clint Henderson did when he flew Delta One from Tokyo's Haneda Airport (HND) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and then on to New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) for 182,700 SkyMiles.

Finally, you can also redeem SkyMiles to purchase premium alcoholic beverages in Sky Clubs, pay for hotels or cover the cost of rental cars, but we generally don't recommend redeeming this way since you'll get much less value per mile than if you were to redeem for flights.

Related: How to redeem your Delta SkyMiles for maximum value

Where the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex falls short

The Delta Platinum is likely not worth applying for if you don't fly Delta regularly since many of its perks, including free checked bags (the first bag is free worldwide and the second bag on domestic U.S. flights), priority boarding and an elite status boost, are oriented toward its loyal flyers.

The card's earning rates are also mediocre, especially given TPG's valuation of SkyMiles at 1.2 cents apiece, which yields a low return on your spending.

Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex vs. Delta SkyMiles Reserve Amex

If you're a fierce Delta devotee who prioritizes airport lounge access (terms apply; subject to limitations), you may be better off with the Delta Platinum's premium sibling, the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card.

The Delta Reserve charges a higher $650 annual fee (see rates and fees) but provides better benefits, including Sky Club access and an enhanced companion certificate that can be used in first class, Delta Comfort or the main cabin.

Related: Delta Platinum vs. Delta Reserve: Picking a premium card for Delta perks

When to apply for the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex

New Delta Platinum cardmembers can earn up to 100,000 bonus miles: 80,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership, plus 20,000 bonus miles after spending an additional $2,000 on purchases (for a total of $6,000) in the first six months of card membership.

Per TPG's valuations, this bonus is worth up to $1,200, which matches the highest number of bonus miles we've seen offered in the card's history.

If the Delta Platinum is already on your radar, now is a great time to apply.

Related: Why I time my credit card applications around predictable big annual bills and elevated welcome offers

Other cards to consider in place of the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex

If the Delta Platinum isn't the right fit for you, one of its competitors may be a better choice:

• If you want better earning rates: The American Express® Gold Card earns American Express Membership Rewards points, which can be transferred to Delta SkyMiles. The Amex Gold is an excellent card for high earning rates since it earns more points per dollar spent in popular categories such as U.S. supermarkets and restaurants worldwide. To learn more, read our full review of the Amex Gold.
• If you want a lower annual fee: The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card offers similar preflight perks, including two free checked bags (the first bag is free worldwide and the second bag on domestic U.S. flights), for a lower $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150 thereafter (see rates and fees). However, you won't receive a companion certificate with this card. To learn more, read our full review of the Delta Gold.
• If you're eligible for a business card: The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card is the business version of the Delta Platinum and allows cardmembers to split personal and business expenses with similar travel perks. To learn more, read our full review of the Delta Platinum Business.

For additional options, check out our full list of the best travel cards.

Related: Sit up front: The ultimate guide to getting upgraded on Delta flights

Bottom line

The Delta Platinum is a solid mid-tier card, and many cardmembers can likely offset its $350 annual fee with a variety of useful benefits. If you're a frequent Delta flyer, the annual companion certificate is a real highlight, as is the elite status boost.

However, the card may not be the best for those who won't find value in these Delta-specific benefits or for travelers whose travel schedules aren't flexible enough to take advantage of off-peak award pricing.

But, if you want to pay a moderate annual fee for some solid Delta perks, the Delta Platinum may be just the card for you.

Apply here: Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card

For rates and fees of the Delta Platinum Amex, click here.
For rates and fees of the Delta Reserve Amex, click here.
For rates and fees of the Delta Gold Amex, click here.

All Spirit Airlines wants is top dollar for its sought-after landing rights at New York City's LaGuardia Airport (LGA).

The bankrupt carrier that shut down business operations May 2 wants to auction its 22 takeoff and landing rights, otherwise known as "slots," on July 9. By the airline's estimate, the portfolio could fetch at least $87 million.

Not so fast.

Spirit and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (the agency that operates LGA) are at odds over the auction.

"Slots themselves do not have intrinsic value without corresponding permission from the airport sponsor to utilize particular facilities at the airport, which is not and could not be auctioned alongside the slots themselves," the Port told a bankruptcy court June 3 in an objection to the auction.

Related: What are airport slots, and how do they affect your flights?

The Port went further to say that slots themselves are not "fungible and transferable."

Spirit believes otherwise. In a response filed on Monday, the airline asked the court to dismiss the Port's objection.

"The Port Authority's core assertion — that [Spirit is] blithely unaware of the regulatory framework governing the LGA Slots — is flatly untrue, something the Port Authority could have instantly known had they merely called to ask," the airline wrote.

Spirit added that it is working closely with all "relevant federal authorities" on the proposed transaction.

Historically, airlines have traded and sold slots at LGA with federal and Port Authority approvals. American Airlines transferred slots at LGA and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to JetBlue Airways under their former Northeast Alliance in 2021 and 2022 without Port objection. And, in 2011, Delta Air Lines and US Airways — now part of American Airlines — agreed to a large slot swap deal that saw the former gain 132 slot pairs at LGA in exchange for transferring the latter 42 slot pairs at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA).

Both transactions required regulatory approval and, in the case of Delta and US Airways, some modifications to meet antitrust muster. But otherwise, they proceeded unimpeded.

Federal Aviation Administration administrator Bryan Bedford said in May that he wants another budget airline to acquire Spirit's LGA slots.

Frontier Airlines is widely considered a strong candidate for Spirit's LGA slots, but really any airline could place a bid, including American Airlines, JetBlue Airways and Southwest Airlines.

A bankruptcy court hearing on the proposed LGA slot auction is scheduled for June 10.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees) is Chase's flagship personal card. It offers a plethora of benefits, including a flexible $300 travel credit and up to $300 annually for StubHub purchases (activation required).

One of its most compelling perks is its limited-time, best-ever welcome bonus: Earn 150,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Now is your last chance to earn it before the offer ends.

According to TPG's June 2026 valuations, that's worth $3,075, making it one of the most valuable credit card welcome offers around.

Given how much you can get out of 150,000 Ultimate Rewards points, you don't want to miss out by not knowing one of Chase's application rules.

Here's what you need to know about eligibility for the welcome bonus on the Chase Sapphire Reserve.

Am I eligible for the Chase Sapphire Reserve's welcome bonus?

The biggest and arguably most important rule to keep in mind with Chase is its 5/24 rule. This rule states that anyone who has opened five or more new credit cards in the past 24 months will likely be declined for a Chase card.

Chase typically doesn't include business cards in your 5/24 count, so keep that in mind.

In addition, there are a few Sapphire family-specific rules to be aware of:

• You can't currently have a Sapphire Reserve card open.
• If you previously earned a bonus on the Sapphire Reserve, you more than likely will not be eligible to earn another.
• If you previously had a Sapphire Reserve, you may not be eligible for this offer, even if you didn't earn a bonus on that Sapphire Reserve.

In short, if you've never held the Sapphire Reserve and are under 5/24, you should qualify for the welcome bonus.

Of course, Chase will always consider your full credit profile when determining your eligibility. Being under 5/24 and a new Sapphire Reserve customer won't matter if you have a poor credit score, low income or a poor relationship with Chase.

Related: Chase Sapphire Reserve lifetime bonus rule: What the bonus eligibility pop-up message means

Can I hold both the Sapphire Reserve and Sapphire Preferred at the same time?

One of the biggest frustrations with the Sapphire family of cards used to be that you couldn't hold both the Sapphire Reserve and Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees) at the same time.

When Chase overhauled its Sapphire eligibility rules last year, it got rid of this pesky rule. Now, you can hold both the Sapphire Reserve and Sapphire Preferred at the same time.

Whether you currently have or previously had the Sapphire Preferred won't affect your ability to earn a welcome bonus on the Sapphire Reserve.

Related: Chase Sapphire Preferred Card review

Bottom line

The Sapphire Reserve's 150,000-point welcome bonus is the best in the card's history, and if you're interested, you'll want to apply now. This is your last chance to take advantage of the offer.

If you transfer your points to one of Chase's 14 airline and hotel partners, you'll be able to get maximum value out of them.

Whether you're planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip or several small but fun excursions, it's important to know what Chase's eligibility rules are. That way, you won't miss out on a heap of helpful points.

To learn more, read our full review of the Sapphire Reserve.

Apply here: Chase Sapphire Reserve

Even before Carnival announced plans for a complete overhaul of its loyalty program to take effect later this year, it was criticized for having one of the weakest big-ship cruise line programs.

Unlike rival Royal Caribbean, Carnival's loyalty program (currently called the VIFP Club and soon to be renamed Carnival Rewards) has never offered its members a free cruise or similar high-value perks after they reach the top tier. There have never been lucrative discounts of up to 20% on some sailings for members, as Windstar Cruises offers as part of its loyalty program.

But the overhaul, now scheduled to take effect Sept. 1, has taken criticism of the line's loyalty program to a new level, with large numbers of Carnival's most loyal fans revolting at the changes in forums across the internet.

The outcry is not without reason. Based on what the line has announced about the new program so far, it significantly reduces the value of chasing status with the line.

Among the biggest changes, the new Carnival Rewards program:

• Will no longer offer status for life, as is the norm in the cruise world. You'll now only earn status for a two-year increment and then lose it unless you requalify.
• Will no longer offer status based on the number of cruises you take. It's now all about how much you spend — something that has become common with airline loyalty programs but is still rare in the world of cruise loyalty programs.
• Will have points earning requirements for higher status tiers that will be very difficult for most Carnival cruisers to reach.
• Will have status levels with fewer valuable perks than what was offered before.

In addition to all of that, the new Carnival Rewards program is more complicated to understand than the old VIFP Club program.

In the old program, you just earned one type of points and at a simple ratio of 1 point earned for every day of cruising. It was about as simple as could be.

In the new program, there are two tracks for earning — the "points" track and the "stars" track — and each of these tracks comes with different rewards.

All that said, there are some good things hidden in the new program that might not be obvious upon first glance, mostly around the added earnings track, now called the points track. It can get you some valuable freebies you wouldn't have received before.

For details of those freebies and other specifics on the new Carnival Rewards program, read on. Just keep in mind that this new program doesn't take effect until Sept. 1. Until then, you will continue to earn points and status based on Carnival's current VIFP Club loyalty program.

The VIFP Club loyalty program will sunset at the end of August, with the caveat that your status in that program will carry over to the new Carnival Rewards program for the next two years (unless you're at the Diamond level, which will carry over for life; more on that below).

Note that to transfer your current status level in the VIFP Club loyalty program to the new Carnival Rewards loyalty program, you will need to log into your profile on the Carnival website and manually opt-in and accept the terms and conditions of the new program. You don't need to wait until Sept. 1 to do this. In fact, you should do it now so there is no lapse in your status during upcoming sailings.

Ways to earn status and points

Earning points in the new Carnival Rewards program will be as complicated as earning points in the line's current VIFP Club program is simple.

For starters, as mentioned above, there will be two tracks to earnings.

Status Qualifying Stars

To earn loyalty status — that is, to rise through the ranks of the program's loyalty tiers — you will earn what are called Status Qualifying Stars. This is the track that will be most similar to the current VIFP Club program's earning track.

In the current program, you earn 1 point for every night you cruise. Cruise a lot, and you move up through the status tiers.

In the new program, by contrast, you will earn loyalty tier points — as noted, now called Status Qualifying Stars — not based on how much you cruise but how much money you spend with Carnival. But the earning levels will vary depending on the type of spending, and it's a bit complicated.

You will get:

• 3 stars for every dollar you spend on cruise fares and onboard spending, including spa treatments, shore excursions, dining and drinks.
• Additional stars for gambling in onboard casinos that vary by the games you play. For playing slot machines, for instance, you will initially get 1 "casino point," as they're called, which then convert into Status Qualifying Stars at a ratio of 1 star for every $2 played.
• Additional stars for making charges to a Carnival® World Mastercard®. The number of stars you will get for various types of spending on this card has yet to be announced but will be soon, according to Carnival.

The information for the Carnival World Mastercard has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Making things just a bit more complicated, there are some exceptions to the spend-to-get-stars formula that comes with this track:

• You will not get stars for the portion of your cruise fare that represents taxes and fees.
• You will not get stars for spending on air travel booked through Carnival as part of its Fly2Fun program.
• You will not get stars for spending on certain fare types.
• You will not get stars for purchases made using your Carnival Rewards points (more on what these are in a moment) or with onboard credits or future cruise credits that were not originally funded by your own spending.

All of the above explains how you will get Status Qualifying Stars, which will help you qualify for status in the new program.

Carnival Rewards points

The second, new track to the Carnival Rewards program will give you what will be called Carnival Rewards points. The way you earn these points will essentially be the same as how you earn Status Qualifying Stars.

You will get 3 Carnival Rewards points for every dollar spent on Carnival cruises, for instance (with the same exceptions as noted above for Status Qualifying Stars). Additionally, you'll get 5,000 bonus Carnival Rewards points after your first 50 days of sailing on a Carnival ship and another 10,000 bonus Carnival Rewards points after every 100 days you sail.

The big difference with Carnival Rewards points is that they will have nothing to do with your loyalty status — that is, how quickly you rise through the program's loyalty tiers.

So, what can you do with Carnival Rewards points? As noted, these points will have nothing to do with earning status. Instead, they will let you get free things when you cruise or even a discount on a cruise. If you really rack up a lot of them, you can even use them to fully cover the cost of a cruise.

You'll be able to use Carnival Rewards points to pay for:

• Cruise fares (including deposits required when you first book)
• Extra-charge onboard activities
• Onboard shopping
• Gambling in ship casinos
• Extra-charge onboard dining
• Onboard drinks
• Shore excursions booked through the line

Carnival has yet to post a full list of the things you can pay for with Carnival Rewards points and how much they will cost in points, but it has listed a few examples on its website to give you an idea. For instance, Carnival says you'll be able to sign up for a Swedish massage at a ship spa for 13,499 Carnival Rewards points. A dinner at The Chef's Table experience or steakhouse restaurants found on Carnival ships will be available for 5,500 points. A single frozen pina colada is listed as costing 1,357 points.

These are all great rewards, of course, but you'll have to spend quite a bit of money on Carnival ships to rack up enough Carnival Rewards points to get them.

For instance, to get the 1,357 points needed for a free pina colada, you'd need to spend about $452 with Carnival. To get that Swedish massage for 13,499 points, you'd need to spend about $4,500.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Program tiers and benefits

There will be four loyalty tiers in the Carnival Rewards program (one fewer than the old VIFP Club program):

• Red (upon signing up)
• Gold (from 10,000 stars)
• Platinum (from 50,000 stars)
• Diamond (from 100,000 stars)

One of the welcome little surprises of the new Carnival Rewards loyalty program is that you can get the initial tier of status, Red, even before you walk on board your first cruise with the brand. Unlike with many lines, you don't have to complete a cruise to get to this first level. All you have to do is sign up for the program in advance.

That said, the Red tier of the program brings almost no perks. There are only three:

• You can earn and redeem points.
• You are eligible for members-only cruise offers.
• You get a complimentary 1.5-liter bottle of water during sailings.

Related: Cruise line loyalty program guide: How to earn perks with the biggest brands

The next tier in the program (Gold) is almost as stingy when it comes to perks. In addition to the meager Red level benefits, it brings just two new, relatively modest perks: a dedicated Gold member support line to call for assistance and a single complimentary beverage on sailings of five days or longer.

As a Gold-level member, you'll also get a special Gold-colored Sail & Sign card that will let you not-so-subtly show off your higher-level status when you plunk it down for a drink at the bar.

It isn't until the third tier of the program, Platinum, that things start to get interesting (more on that in a moment).

Related: Carnival cruise ships by size: Here are the largest Carnival cruise ships, biggest to smallest, by tonnage

As noted, you don't need to spend any money with Carnival to get the initial Red tier of status. You just sign up for the program. But to get the 10,000 stars that are necessary to reach the Gold tier of the program, you'll need to spend $3,333 on Carnival purchases (for a nongambler without the Carnival Mastercard; the threshold will be different if you play in a Carnival casino or make purchases with the Carnival Mastercard). And, as part of the new program, the window for you to rack up that level of spending will be just two years — a period that will be known as the Status Qualifying Period.

Given that Carnival sailings start at just $184 per person (as of the date of this guide's publishing), that means you might have to sail quite a few times over a two-year period to reach the Gold level, even if you add up all your onboard spending on such things as spa treatments, dining and drinks.

That said, if you gamble a lot on board, spend a lot with the Carnival Mastercard or just rack up a big onboard bill with all sorts of extra spending, you could reach the Gold tier much faster.

The new two-year earnings window is the big change to the program. Under the old VIFP Club loyalty program, every cruise you took over your lifetime added to your progress toward status, and each tier of status that you reached was yours for life. There was no earnings window or limit to the time you kept your status. You just kept moving up the ranks.

Under the new program, you will rack up stars through the two-year Status Qualifying Period, and then whatever status you earn during that period will last for the subsequent two years. After that, you lose it unless you requalify during the next two-year Status Qualifying Period.

The initial two-year Status Qualifying Period for the new program officially will begin on Jan. 1, 2027, and end on Dec. 31, 2028. The Status Qualifying Stars you earn during this period will then determine your status from Jan. 1, 2029, through Dec. 31, 2030.

In case you're wondering, your status between now and Jan. 1, 2029, will be your final status in the old VIFP Club program as of Sept. 1 of this year, when that program sunsets.

For instance, I am personally at the Platinum level in the VIFP Club program and have been for quite a few years. When the new program officially kicks off in September, I will retain that Platinum status in the new program until the end of 2028. Starting Jan. 1, 2029, my status will be reset based on the amount of stars I rack up in 2027 and 2028.

The elite level that makes a difference

As was the case with the old VIFP Club program, the Platinum level of the Carnival Rewards program is where your loyalty to Carnival finally starts paying off.

Many of the perks that kick in at this level include priority access of some kind, including:

• Early access to online check-in (16 days in advance)
• Priority check-in and boarding
• Priority access on board for things like spa reservations and the guest services line
• Priority debarkation
• Access to preferred restaurant times

In short, once you're at the Platinum level, you'll suddenly find yourself bumped to the front of the line from the moment you arrive at a ship until the moment you leave. This is no small thing. Priority boarding means that you'll get on board the ship faster than other passengers, giving you more time on your first day to enjoy its offerings. Preferred access to restaurant reservations means you'll get the best table times.

Related: The ultimate guide to Carnival Cruise Line ships and itineraries

Other perks that come with the Platinum level include:

• A second free drink that you can order at any venue
• Complimentary wash-and-fold laundry service (one to four bags, depending on the length of the cruise)
• A Platinum-colored Sail & Sign card
• A Platinum pin

Sadly, getting to the Platinum tier requires such an enormous amount of spending that it will be out of reach for most Carnival cruisers. To hit 50,000 stars, nongamblers will need to make $16,667 in Carnival purchases over a two-year period (as at the Gold tier, the threshold will differ for gamblers depending on their casino play and Carnival Mastercard holders depending on their card spending).

Related: The best destinations you can visit on a Carnival Cruise Line ship

Best elite perk

The highest tier of the Carnival Rewards program, Diamond, is unfortunately being downgraded in value as part of the overhaul of Carnival's program. Gone are such perks as a free cabin upgrade upon first reaching Diamond status and a complimentary meal for two at a specialty restaurant of your choice.

As in the past, Carnival also doesn't offer any of the truly wonderful perks that some of its biggest competitors (think: Royal Caribbean) give you, such as a free cruise upon reaching top-tier status.

Indeed, the added perks for reaching Diamond status are surprisingly minor and, in our opinion, at least, not worth the extra effort to reach this level.

Related: Everything you want to know about cabins and suites on Carnival Cruise Line ships

The best of the extra perks that come with Diamond status is the guaranteed main dining time of your choice (early or late seating only).

At the Diamond level, you also get slightly more free wash-and-fold laundry service (one more bag per cruise). But that, too, is a downgrade, as the old program gave Diamond members unlimited wash-and-fold laundry service.

Other than that, the Diamond level brings mostly the same perks as the Platinum level. The only other additions are:

• You get a Diamond pin.
• Your Sign & Sail card color becomes Diamond-themed.
• You get an invitation to a special event with the captain on each sailing.

To reach the Diamond level, you would have to spend $33,333 with Carnival in a two-year period, assuming you are a nongambler or don't hold the Carnival Mastercard. That is, of course, an enormous amount given that many Carnival cruisers pay a base fare (not including onboard spending) of just a few hundred dollars per cruise.

There is one big exception to that spending requirement for Diamond status that will apply only to Carnival's current crop of most loyal customers. If you are such a frequent Carnival cruiser that you have already reached Diamond status in the current VIFP Club loyalty program by the time it sunsets on Sept. 1 of this year, you will retain that status for life.

This wasn't the original plan when Carnival announced the new program last year. There was such an outcry from Carnival's most loyal customers about the prospect of losing the Diamond status they thought they had reached for life, though, that the line changed its mind. They are now grandfathered into Diamond status for life in the new program.

Related: The classes of Carnival Cruise Line ships, explained

Bottom line

The new Carnival Rewards loyalty program that's launching Sept. 1 isn't as generous as Carnival's current VIFP Club loyalty program in that it doesn't offer status for life to frequent cruisers. In general, it'll be harder for Carnival fans to both gain and maintain status with the line in the new program. Additionally, the rewards available at the various program tiers aren't quite as good as before.

That said, the program includes a new earning track, Carnival Rewards points, that will let you occasionally get some nice perks, such as complimentary spa treatments and free dinners at the higher-end restaurants on Carnival ships, based on how much you're spending with the line.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• 8 cabin locations on cruise ships you should definitely avoid
• Which cruise brand is best for you? A guide to the most popular lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise
• Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

For years, Choice Privileges has been one of the best-value ways to book hotels in Japan with points. The program has offered relatively inexpensive yet centrally located award options, making it my go-to loyalty program when visiting Japan.

In the past four years, I've redeemed Choice points for 45 nights, including 37 nights in Japan. That's largely because while Choice Privileges increased its award cap and pricing across many properties over the last few years, the program mostly spared its Japan properties.

Unfortunately, that's no longer entirely the case. As LoyaltyLobby reported Saturday, Choice Privileges recently increased the cost of award nights at some Japanese properties by as much as 200%. Still, when I took a closer look, I found that it's not all bad news: Some Choice Privileges properties in Japan now cost fewer points, and many others appear to have stayed the same. Here's what you should know.

Choice Privileges increases cost of award nights at some Japan properties

The worst of these Choice Privileges award night increases is in Tokyo and Osaka. As a reminder, you can check nightly award rates for each property by searching for an award stay and looking at the calendar that loads.

Award pricing can vary by night at Choice Privileges properties, but it doesn't appear to vary by night at Choice Privileges properties in Japan.

Unfortunately, you'll now need to redeem 20,000 to 30,000 Choice points per night to stay in the heart of Tokyo.

To put these award rates in comparison, I paid 8,000 points per night for an August 2023 stay at the Comfort Hotel Tokyo Higashi Nihombashi; that same stay would now cost 20,000 points per night. In May 2024 and January 2025, I stayed at the Comfort Hotel Tokyo Kanda for 8,000 points per night; now, award nights at the property cost 20,000 points. And in February 2026, I booked a stay at the Comfort Hotel ERA Tokyo Higashi Kanda for 12,000 points per night, but now, award nights cost 25,000 points.

The sad part of these award pricing increases is that many nights at these hotels don't carry high paid rates. For example, you could book this night at the Comfort Hotel ERA Tokyo Higashi Kanda for $96 or 25,000 points. If you redeem points for this night, you'd only get 0.38 cents per point in value (well below the 0.6 cents per point number noted in TPG's June 2026 valuations).

The cost of Choice Privileges award nights also increased in Osaka at the centrally located Comfort Hotel Osaka Shinsaibashi. I stayed at this property for 8,000 points per night in May 2023, but now, it costs 20,000 points per night.

The number of Choice Privileges properties in Japan that have significantly increased their award rates is small, but the properties that increased significantly are many of the ones I've stayed at over the past four years.

Related: Travel to Japan with points and miles: Best ways to redeem your rewards for flights and hotels

A few Choice Privileges properties in Japan now cost fewer points

Interestingly, I did find several Choice Privileges properties in Japan that now cost fewer points. For example, I've seen award nights for 12,000 or 16,000 points at the Comfort Suites Tokyo Bay within the last year. However, award nights at this property — which is well located for visiting Tokyo Disney — now cost just 8,000 points per night.

Weekend nights often cost $171 at this property, meaning you'd get 2.14 cents per point in value when redeeming Choice points.

Likewise, I stayed at the Comfort Hotel Sapporo Susukino in February 2024 for 16,000 points per night. Now, this property is bookable for 8,000 points per night.

I'm not 100% confident this drop occurred within the last few weeks, but I am confident the Comfort Hotel Sapporo Susukino cost more than 8,000 points per night earlier this year.

Many Choice Privileges properties in Japan still cost 8,000 points per night

It's also worth mentioning that the vast majority of Choice Privileges properties in Japan still cost 8,000 points per night. You can see ample properties bookable for 8,000 points per night in the region surrounding Tokyo and Nagoya, for example.

So, it's still possible to reliably get award nights in Japan for 8,000 Choice points per night if you select your destinations carefully and avoid Tokyo and Osaka. But, even in the case of Osaka, you could stay in Shin-Osaka, Kobe or Kyoto for just 10,000 points per night (which is reasonable, especially in Kyoto).

Related: How (and why) to plan a ski trip to Niseko, Japan, with points and miles

Bottom line

Choice Privileges is no longer the easy answer it once was for booking centrally located award stays in Tokyo and Osaka. With some properties now charging 20,000 to 30,000 points per night — even when paid rates are relatively low — I'll likely book inexpensive business hotels such as APA Hotels or Toyoko Inn more often in these cities.

But this isn't a reason to write off Choice Privileges in Japan entirely. There are still plenty of 8,000-point properties, and a few hotels — including Comfort Suites Tokyo Bay and Comfort Hotel Sapporo Susukino — may now be better Choice sweet spots than before.

The practical takeaway: Don't assume Choice points are the best option in Japan, especially in Tokyo and Osaka. Compare paid and award rates, run the cents-per-point math and consider nearby cities or less obvious destinations where inexpensive award nights may still offer outsize value.

These days, premium travel cards are packed with statement credits designed to offset sky-high annual fees. As someone focused on real-world value, I'm not interested in how many statement credits I can access — I want to know how many of them I'll actually use.

The American Express Platinum Card® and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees) each offer many statement credits, which often require effort to maximize.

Which top-tier card offers the most usable statement credits? Here's how they compare.

Methodology

To evaluate the real-world value of the statement credits on the Amex Platinum and Sapphire Reserve, I focused on five key criteria:

• Potential dollar value: The maximum dollar value available through statement credits
• Ease of redemption: The amount of effort required to redeem the credit, including any enrollment or activation requirements
• Frequency: How often the credit is available, whether annually, biannually, quarterly or monthly
• Broad vs. niche merchants: How broadly applicable the credit is and how easy it is to find eligible merchants
• Natural fit: Whether I use the credit organically or have to change my spending habits to justify it

Related: 7 cards that can replace your Amex Platinum

Amex Platinum vs. Sapphire Reserve: Potential value chart

Before we dive into each benefit side by side, let's take a look at the total potential value each card offers.

The table below breaks down each card's statement credits by seven categories. If you're interested in which card wins in practice, jump ahead to the category-by-category analysis.

Uber benefits are shown in both categories for comparison purposes, but are counted only once in the total value.

At face value, the Amex Platinum provides $636 in additional statement credits when compared to the Sapphire Reserve. But the key here is analyzing how easy it is to actually redeem the Amex Platinum's credits. That's what we'll dive into next.

*Enrollment is required.
#Add your qualifying Amex card to your Uber account and pay with any Amex card.
^Eligible charges vary by property.

Related: Credit cards that can get you $1,500 or more in first-year value

Travel

The Amex Platinum and Sapphire Reserve each provide a credit toward travel, but they differ in how they're applied.

The Sapphire Reserve's $300 annual travel credit may be the easiest benefit to use on this entire list. It automatically applies to a broad list of travel purchases, including flights, hotels and public transit.

I used my Sapphire Reserve's annual travel credit throughout a recent trip to London, tapping in and out for (essentially) free tube rides the entire time.

Meanwhile, the Amex Platinum's airline incidental credit earns up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year on incidental fees charged by your selected airline (enrollment required). Qualifying airlines include many of the most popular U.S. airlines, such as Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines and United Airlines.

Since I don't have a cobranded airline card or airline elite status, I find this credit useful. This year, I chose American Airlines and used it on checked bag fees and an Admirals Club day pass during a four-hour layover at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in Terminal 8.

My verdict: I find both of these statement credits easy to use, but the Sapphire Reserve's flexible travel credit certainly wins out. It's simpler, broader and easier to use, while the Amex Platinum's airline fee credit requires more planning and effort.

Related: My 5 top travel credit cards — and how they elevate my trips

Hotels

The Amex Platinum's hotel statement credit is split into two biannual up-to-$300 increments. You're limited to using one half from January to June, then the other from July to December.

You can use your credit for a one-night stay through Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts, but you have to book at least two nights if you book through The Hotel Collection.

Meanwhile, the Sapphire Reserve splits its $500 annual hotel credit in half — but you can use your two $250 credits at any time; they just can't be combined. You have to book at least two nights through The Edit. This adds timing flexibility that the Amex Platinum's statement credit doesn't provide.

My verdict: I prefer the Amex Platinum's hotel statement credits because FHR and THC include more properties than The Edit. Plus, FHR allows one-night stays, which makes it easier for me to use the credit without spending as much cash. If you're likely to book at least one eligible stay in each half of the year, I think the Amex Platinum's credit offers more value. However, if you value the flexibility of accessing The Edit credits without a biannual restriction, that may be a better choice for you.

Related: 10 hotels where your Amex Platinum hotel credit covers half (or more) of your stay

Dining

The most prominent differences between the dining credits on the Amex Platinum and Sapphire Reserve are the frequency they're received and the platforms they partner with.

Amex Platinum cardmembers receive up to $100 in quarterly statement credits for U.S. Resy purchases (enrollment required), while the Sapphire Reserve offers up to $150 from January to June and $150 from July to December for Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables through OpenTable.

Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables features a decent list of restaurants — especially in larger cities and popular vacation destinations — making this an excellent credit to stack with other benefits, like The Edit credit. However, its footprint isn't as broad as Resy, in my experience.

Additionally, Amex Platinum provides easy-to-use perks with Uber (and thus, Uber Eats), while the Sapphire Reserve offers DoorDash credits that can be a bit more complicated. However, the best part of the Sapphire Reserve's DoorDash benefit is receiving at least 12 months of DashPass for free (when you activate by Dec. 31, 2027).

My verdict: While the Sapphire Reserve offers higher potential value with its dining statement credits, I prefer the wider availability of restaurants with the Amex Platinum's U.S. Resy statement credit. I also prefer the ease of the Amex Platinum's U.S. Uber benefit, especially compared to the complexity of the Sapphire Reserve's DoorDash credits.

Related: Use your Amex Resy credit at even more restaurants

Entertainment and shopping

Both the Amex Platinum and the Sapphire Reserve offer statement credits for shopping and entertainment, so the winner here really comes down to your individual spending habits.

The Amex Platinum offers up to $25 in monthly statement credits for select digital entertainment and streaming services (up to $300 each calendar year; enrollment required). You can use it on eligible purchases made directly with popular services, including Disney+, Hulu, Paramount+ and Peacock.

I use this statement credit on YouTube TV and get $25 back every month. This is one of the easiest credits to use, especially if you already subscribe to an eligible service.

The Amex Platinum also provides up to $75 in quarterly statement credits for U.S. Lululemon purchases (online and in-store, excluding outlets; enrollment required), which is obviously useful if you already shop there. Generally, it's not hard for me to remember to use this credit each quarter for new workout gear or gifts.

Finally, Amex Platinum cardmembers receive up to $155 in annual statement credits for a recurring Walmart+ membership (enrollment required). If you shop at Walmart regularly, this benefit can be valuable. I've already saved more than $100 this year through fuel discounts and free delivery.

It's easy for live-event fans like me to redeem the Sapphire Reserve's up to $300 annual credit (split into two $150 biannual credits) for StubHub and Viagogo purchases (through Dec. 31, 2027). I've already bought tickets for a Sombr concert later this year, and I plan to use the next half of the credit toward tickets for a college football game in the fall.

The Sapphire Reserve also provides complimentary Apple TV and Apple Music subscriptions each year (one-time activation required for each service; subscriptions run through June 22, 2027), which are natural fits for those who already subscribe to these services.

My verdict: I enjoy the suite of entertainment and shopping credits on both cards, though the Sapphire Reserve's credits may be easier for some to redeem since they're received biannually and annually, while the Amex Platinum's credits are mostly received monthly or quarterly.

Related: The best credit cards to maximize your entertainment spending

Ride-hailing

The Amex Platinum provides benefits with Uber, while the Sapphire Reserve partners with Lyft.

As mentioned in the dining section, Amex Platinum cardmembers receive Uber benefits (up to $200 each year) that can be used toward U.S. Uber rides (and Uber Eats orders). They also receive an Uber One membership (up to $120 each year; subject to auto-renewal). Just make sure your Platinum card is added to your Uber account, and from there you can redeem your Uber Cash with any Amex card.

Meanwhile, the Sapphire Reserve gives cardholders up to $10 in monthly in-app credit on Lyft rides, which is a solid monthly benefit as long as you can maximize it.

My verdict: I find both benefits useful, and your personal loyalty to Uber or Lyft may push one ahead of the other. However, thanks to the addition of the Uber One membership and the fact that Uber may be more widely available in some parts of the U.S., the Amex Platinum's ride-hailing credits win here.

Related: 5 things to know before the next time you use a ride-hailing service at the airport

Health and wellness

The Amex Platinum provides up to $300 in annual statement credits for select Equinox memberships (enrollment required; subject to auto-renewal), including the app, and up to $200 in statement credits for hardware purchases with Oura Ring each calendar year (enrollment required).

Meanwhile, Sapphire Reserve cardmembers receive up to $120 each year on Peloton subscriptions ($10 monthly membership credit through Dec. 31, 2027).

When it comes to the Amex Platinum's statement credits, you're likely to get the most out of the Equinox benefit if you have a nearby location, even though the app is included in the benefit. Plus, the Oura Ring perk may be difficult to get ongoing annual value from unless you upgrade your ring each year, since it's for hardware purchases only.

The Sapphire Reserve's Peloton credit may be easier for those who already have a bike and use it regularly. For instance, TPG contributing editor Matt Moffitt values the credit highly since he's been a subscriber for six years. So, he pays just $4 out of pocket per month for his subscription.

My verdict: Even though the Amex Platinum offers a higher total credit value, its credits are more niche. It's also worth noting that the Sapphire Reserve's Peloton credit may be easier only for existing Peloton users.

Related: 6 reasons why the Amex Platinum Card is the perfect card for fitness enthusiasts

Trusted traveler programs

Both the Amex Platinum and the Sapphire Reserve offer up to $120 in statement credits for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years (enrollment required for the Amex Platinum).

The Amex Platinum offers one additional statement credit, giving cardmembers up to $209 toward an annual Clear+ membership for expedited airport security (subject to auto-renewal; enrollment required).

My verdict: These statement credits are easy to use, and the Amex Platinum inches ahead of the Sapphire Reserve since it also offers Clear+.

Related: Can someone else use my Global Entry application credit?

Bottom line

The Amex Platinum's statement credits offer greater potential value — but they generally require more active tracking and include more niche merchants.

Comparatively, Sapphire Reserve provides less potential value — but its credits are much easier to track and use.

If you're interested in more value and more opportunities to redeem credits, then the Amex Platinum is the way to go. If you don't want to put as much effort into maximizing your benefits, the Sapphire Reserve is a better option, even though it provides less value and fewer opportunities.

To learn more, read our full reviews of the Amex Platinum and Chase Sapphire Reserve.

Apply here: American Express Platinum

Apply here: Chase Sapphire Reserve

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

Don't let Central Florida's steamy weather stop you from visiting Walt Disney World in the summer. There is no denying it can get hot, humid and steamy in the summer months, but that's what hotel pools and water parks are for.

Temperatures aside, summer is one of the best times to visit Disney World thanks to new attractions, special discounts and exclusive experiences. Here are our top tips for planning the perfect summer visit to Disney World.

Lower crowds and cheaper tickets

While early summer — beginning with Memorial Day weekend and running through early August — can be busy at Walt Disney World, late summer is one of the cheapest and least crowded times to visit the parks.

You can find one-day tickets for as low as $119 for several dates in August and September (in 2026 and 2027). If you hop back one month to July or ahead to October 2026, ticket prices jump to $164 and up.

By mid-August, most kids are back in school, and there is a short window before Disney begins to celebrate Halloween (yes, Halloween starts in August in Central Florida) and the costumed crowds descend. In general, you'll see the lowest crowds on weekdays. Time your visit accordingly if your schedule allows.

Limited-time discounts

In addition to cheaper base prices, Disney is currently offering a limited-time discount on a four-day ticket that includes one day of admission to each theme park and a special afternoon ticket that includes two or three days of admission to one park per day after 2 p.m., starting at $117 per day.

If you already know you'll be visiting all four parks, the 4-Day, 4-Park Magic ticket is a great option. And, if your idea of vacation doesn't involve waking up at 6 a.m. to be at the parks for rope drop, the "After 2 PM" ticket can help you sleep in and save a bit of cash.

The summertime savings go beyond theme park entry. You can save up to 30% on your Disney World hotel stay, and kids ages 3 to 9 can get a free dining plan on eligible vacation packages. You can view all current offers on the Walt Disney World website.

Other ways to save

The no-annual-fee Disney® Visa® Card (see rates and fees) comes with all kinds of perks, including 10% off at select restaurants and gift shops, and 15% off select guided tours. That's in addition to the new cardholder bonus and the simple 1% cash back you'll earn on all purchases in the form of Disney Reward Dollars you can use to offset the cost of your next vacation. Disney Visa cardholders often receive additional exclusive discounts, such as free dining plans and more.

Related: With bonuses up to $500 and built-in Disney discounts, are the Disney Visa credit cards worth it?

For even more perks and a higher welcome bonus, check out the new Disney® Inspire Visa® Card (see rates and fees), too. You'll get a higher welcome bonus that can offset the cost of your vacation and higher Disney Rewards Dollars earning rates.

Related: Disney releases a new premium card with a $600 bonus, annual park benefits and more

New attractions and experiences

If it's been a few years since your last visit to Disney World, a lot has changed (and, if you've never been, you are in for an even bigger treat). Major construction projects are underway at three of Disney's four parks, but you won't have to wait for the bulldozers to retreat to enjoy new rides and entertainment at Disney World.

Related: We tried out everything new coming to Disney World this summer, and things are looking bright

Magic Kingdom

Two popular Magic Kingdom attractions recently received updates that bring guests even deeper into Disney's expert storytelling. Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin in Tomorrowland reopened in April with new ride vehicles outfitted with handheld blasters and video monitors, along with interactive targets and haptic feedback for more accurate alien-blasting.

Over in Frontierland, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad opened after being closed for more than a year. In addition to mechanical upgrades like new tracks and ride vehicles, Disney added a colorful Rainbow Caverns show scene.

Disney's Hollywood Studios

Arguably, the biggest opening this summer is Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets. As Disney World's only inverted coaster, it's a must-do for thrill seekers. The ride used to feature music by Aerosmith, but it got Muppet-fied just in time for summer with new music, characters and lots of memorabilia from the Muppets history (including the recently closed Muppet*Vision 3D).

In Galaxy's Edge, Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run got a major upgrade. Now, instead of just one mission, there are several mission locations to choose from. And they all feature appearances by Grogu and the Mandalorian. He is almost too cute to look away from and focus on not crashing the ship.

Epcot

There have been a few iterations of Soarin' over the years, and to celebrate America's 250th birthday, Disney introduced a patriotic version of Soarin' Across America. The motion simulator flyover film highlights 13 iconic US locales and landmarks, culminating in a fireworks finale over Spaceship Earth.

Extra fun for families

After introducing the monthslong event last year, Disney brought back Cool Kids Summer for the 2026 season. The event runs from May 26 through Sept. 8, 2026, and includes fun for families with young kids across all four parks and select Disney resort hotels.

Each of the four Disney parks has a Cool Kids Summer spot where kids can interact with their favorite characters in new ways:

• Bluey's Wild World at Animal Kingdom — Hop on the Wildlife Express Train for a surprisingly quick trip to Australia, where you can play with Bluey and her sister Bingo, and meet kangaroos and wallabies at Jumping Junction. This is part of Cool Kids Summer, but is expected to last beyond the Sept. 8 end date.
• Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live! at Hollywood Studios — This sing-and-dance-along show stars Mickey, Minnie, Daisy, Goofy and Pluto. Kids (and parents) are encouraged to get up and dance as Mickey and Minnie round up their friends for a big celebration. This is also expected to last beyond Sept. 8 and is adjacent to The Magic of Disney Animation, which is expected to open later this summer.
• Jessie's Roundup: A Rip-Roarin' Revue! at Magic Kingdom — Visit the Diamond Horseshoe in Frontierland for games and dancing with Jessie, Woody, Bullseye and more "Toy Story" characters.
• GoofyCore at Epcot — A DJ-led dance party at Communicore Hall featuring dancing, games and appearances by Goofy.

Guests at select on-site hotels (Disney's Pop Century Resort, Disney's Art of Animation Resort, Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort and Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside) can extend the fun beyond the parks with Cool Kids Summer perks like a welcome gift for kids, pool parties, pajama storytime with characters and more.

Related: I have stayed at every Disney World hotel — this is what I liked and didn't like about each property

Free water park visits

Disney introduced this popular perk in 2025, and it's coming back for summer 2026. Guests staying in a Disney Resort hotel between May 26 and Sept. 8, 2026, can visit one of Disney's water parks for free on their check-in day. This summer, both Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park and Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park are operating daily, so you can choose which you'd like to visit.

You don't need to do anything special to use this perk, just scan into the water park with your MagicBand, MagicMobile pass on your smartphone or hotel keycard. To take full advantage of free water park entry,

Tips for staying cool

The hottest and stormiest part of the day in Central Florida is late afternoon. If you are a morning person, you can beat the crowds and the heat by arriving close to rope drop (a.k.a park opening time). Keep in mind that on-site hotel guests get into the parks 30 minutes early. To be one of the first guests inside the park, you want to be at the turnstiles about 30 minutes before you can get into the park.

If you want to escape the hottest part of the day without sacrificing too much time in the park, stay for a few hours after rope drop and head back to your hotel for a midday break before returning when the sun has (blessedly) set for the evening. In addition to the cooler temperatures, the parks look completely different at night, and many of the outdoor rides feel different, too.

If you want to cut down on the time spent waiting outside in line for rides (many queues are indoor, but some are at least partially outdoor), you can purchase a Lightning Lane Multi-Pass to skip the standby line on most attractions. There are a handful of rides, like Tron: Lightcycle Run and Avatar Flight of Passage, that require a separate Lightning Lane Single-Pass purchase. The amount of money you'll save on bottled water and sunscreen might make these worth adding to your vacation budget.

Related: Lightning Lane Premier Pass skip-the-line service now available to all Disney World guests

Throughout the year, Disney also offers exclusive after-hours parties at its theme parks and water parks that allow you to enjoy the parks with much lower crowds, special entertainment and characters and, most importantly, unlimited free drinks and snacks. These events are separately ticketed, but the price is often lower than a regular daytime ticket, and the lines are almost nonexistent, so you can skip the daytime ticket and get just as much done even with less time in the park.

All of Disney's resorts have themed pools that are just as much fun for kids as the attractions inside the parks. When kids get cranky from the Florida heat, take a break at the pool to help everyone reset before returning to the parks in the evening.

In addition to the limited-time Cool Kids Summer offerings, Disney World has several indoor play areas where kids can play, and parents can relax in dark, air-conditioned bliss.

At Magic Kingdom, you'll find a circus-themed playground inside Dumbo the Flying Elephant; at Epcot, kids can blast off at Space Base at the exit of Mission: Space; and go under the sea at Sea Base inside the Seas pavilion to let their imaginations run wild at the exit of Journey Into Imagination.

Bottom line

Disney's pursuit of providing guests with a cool summer vacation, even when temperature are hot, doesn't stop at the hotel pool. Guests who visit Disney World during the summer can also enjoy lower crowds, cheaper ticket prices, hotel discounts and limited-time offerings you can't get any other time of year.

Related reading:

• Typhoon Lagoon vs. Blizzard Beach: The ultimate guide to Disney World's water parks
• Bluey, Buzz and Grogu: Opening dates for new Disney World and Disneyland attractions in 2026
• With bonuses up to $500 and built-in Disney discounts, are the Disney Visa credit cards worth it?

American Airlines will soon have a new partner in the South Pacific.

Over the weekend, the Oneworld alliance announced that Philippine Airlines will soon become its newest member.

The move will see the airline, based in Manila, become a full-fledged alliance partner of American and more than a dozen other global airlines — like British Airways, Iberia, Qatar, Qantas and Japan Airlines.

The news of Philippine Airlines joining Oneworld came via a Memorandum of Understanding signed on Saturday at the International Air Transport Association's general meeting in Brazil.

Best Airlines Report 2026: Delta edges out rivals to win for eighth straight year

A new partner for American, Alaska and others

What will this shift mean for frequent travelers?

In the future, you'll be able to redeem your AAdvantage miles on a Philippine Airlines flight to Manila (or even elsewhere in Asia). You'll also be able to make use of your AAdvantage elite status perks on the flight, from lounge access, priority boarding and free baggage.

The same would be true for travelers with a stash of Avios, Cathay Pacific Asia Miles or award currency from any other Oneworld carrier.

Typically, Oneworld elite members receive reciprocal loyalty benefits when flying with any airline in the alliance — as long as they book their flight using the loyalty number of the airline they have status with.

Oneworld alliance guide: Learn about airlines, lounges and elite status

Alaska, Hawaiian to deepen PAL partnership

American isn't the only U.S. airline gaining this new alliance partner.

Here in the U.S., fellow Oneworld member Alaska Airlines already had a more limited partnership with Philippine Airlines, allowing travelers to earn Atmos Rewards points on PAL flights.

But that tie-up will grow deeper once the carrier becomes a Oneworld member.

What PAL in Oneworld means for travelers

From its home base at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) in Manila, Philippine Airlines currently serves five airports in the U.S.:

• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)
• Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) in Honolulu

With PAL's arrival in Oneworld, you'll be able to use your favorite Oneworld award currency to fly straight to Manila or, for instance, fly Hawaiian Airlines to Honolulu and then connect to the Philippines.

You could also use your AAdvantage miles to fly PAL to Manila and then connect onward to one of the many destinations PAL serves in Asia.

And, again, if you have status with American (or Alaska ... or BA), you'd get some of those elite benefits on PAL.

Oneworld expands

Philippine Airlines will be the 16th Oneworld carrier (and the 17th airline brand, including both Alaska and the recently acquired Hawaiian).

Other recent Oneworld entrants include Oman Air and Fiji Airways.

In a statement, Philippine Airlines called this move a "defining and transformative moment" for the airline.

American, for its part, touted the carrier's arrival in Oneworld as a boost to its partner footprint in the Pacific.

"Philippine Airlines' entry into Oneworld supports our long‑term strategic growth and strengthens our connectivity across key markets in the Asia Pacific region," American CEO Robert Isom said. "The airline has a proud heritage and will serve a critical role in our Southeast Asia network."

Related reading:

• When is the best time to book flights for the cheapest airfare?
• The best airline credit cards
• Which US airline is best? TPG's 2026 rankings
• Flight delayed or canceled? Here's what to do
• The best credit cards to reach elite status
• What are points and miles worth? TPG's monthly valuations
• Spirit is gone. Can the other budget airlines survive?

Southwest Airlines is getting ready to switch on high-speed Starlink inflight connectivity.

The first aircraft equipped with the free and ultra-fast Wi-Fi, a Boeing 737-800, will enter service by the end of June, Southwest chief customer and brand officer Tony Roach said at an industry conference this weekend.

It's a major step forward for the Dallas-based carrier's on-board internet offerings, and the move comes just months after Southwest made its existing service free to all members of its Rapid Rewards loyalty program.

How quickly will Southwest passengers see the upgraded Wi-Fi?

"We have the capability to get to up to 300 [planes] by the end of the year but, at this point in time, it's more of the pacing on Starlink — when we can get the kits — we'll be putting them on the aircraft," Roach said, speaking Saturday at the International Air Transport Association's general meeting in Brazil.

A growing number of US airlines with Wi-Fi

With its debut, Southwest joins Alaska Airlines and its brand Hawaiian Airlines, boutique air carrier JSX and United Airlines offering Starlink connectivity on its planes in the U.S. Most recently, American Airlines announced plans to add the inflight Wi-Fi service to its Airbus jets beginning in 2027.

Fast inflight connectivity is an increasingly critical amenity for airlines as they compete for customers. The number of "dark" flights — or those without Wi-Fi — is rapidly shrinking, as consumers now expect connectivity options while airborne.

"The bar now is customers want very fast Wi-Fi," Andrew Watterson, the chief operating officer of Southwest, said. "Starlink has set the bar for how fast Wi-Fi should be on an aircraft, so you must meet that bar."

Free Wi-Fi: The new perk airlines can't add fast enough

A wave of change at Southwest

The debut of Starlink comes at a time of significant change for Southwest. The airline dropped its long-standing open seating policy in favor of assigned seats earlier this year and, at the same time, introduced its first premium-light product: extra-legroom seats. Last year, the airline began charging for checked bags.

And Southwest CEO Bob Jordan has repeatedly said the carrier is considering the addition of intercontinental routes, a network of airport lounges and a U.S. domestic first-class product for its planes.

While Southwest has confirmed plans to upgrade Starlink on some 300 planes, the carrier has not yet announced technological upgrades for the rest of its 800-aircraft-strong fleet, Roach said. He described the airline's current approach to high-speed Wi-Fi as "exploratory."

"We're exploring different vendors that provide that type of experience," he said.

Bottom line

Amazon Leo is Starlink's primary competitor, offering high-speed inflight connectivity. Delta Air Lines in March unveiled a deal to equip 500 aircraft with the Amazon product. JetBlue is also adding Amazon's tech to some of its jets.

Southwest's current inflight connectivity providers are Anuvu and Viasat. Planes equipped with the former's older technology are prioritized for Starlink installations.

Related reading:

• Your complete guide to maximizing Southwest Rapid Rewards
• The best Southwest Airlines credit cards
• How to quickly earn the Southwest Companion Pass
• Southwest's new seating and boarding policies: What to know
• The best credit cards to reach elite status
• The true Southwest reboot is here, and it may be just the beginning

If you're a college student planning to study abroad, you're in for a real treat. There's nothing like living outside the country and immersing yourself in another culture, traveling and exploring different places virtually every weekend.

But this adventure doesn't come cheap. For example, you can expect to spend anywhere from $1,500 to $7,000 during a semester abroad in Europe (according to some reports) — and that doesn't even take accommodation into account.

The good news? All of the cards on this list charge no foreign transaction fees, so you won't get hit with extra costs every time you tap your card abroad. And if you're using a credit card, you can earn some serious rewards on your study abroad expenses. Plus, the right card will help you save money on fees and protect you if your travel plans go awry.

Here's what you need to know to choose the best credit card for studying abroad.

Comparing the best cards for studying abroad

The information for the Amex Green and Discover it Student Cash Back has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

If transferable rewards for no annual fee are what you're after, look no further than the Capital One VentureOne Rewards.

Welcome bonus: Earn 20,000 bonus miles after spending $500 on purchases within the first three months from account opening.

This bonus is worth $370, according to TPG's June 2026 valuations.

Annual fee: $0

Why it's great for studying abroad: The VentureOne doesn't have an annual fee and earns an unlimited 1.25 miles per dollar on all purchases. Cardholders will also earn 5 miles per dollar on car rentals, hotels and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel.

You can use your miles in a variety of ways, but the best way is to transfer them to any of Capital One's 15-plus hotel and airline partners. This is likely your most valuable redemption option.

There aren't many no-annual-fee cards that allow you to transfer miles to travel partners, so this card is definitely worth a serious look for students studying abroad.

To learn more, read our full review of the Capital One VentureOne.

Learn more: Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card

If you want to keep your wallet simple, cash back is often the way to go. Consider the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card.

Welcome bonus: Earn a $250 cash bonus after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.

Annual fee: $0

Why it's great for studying abroad: The Savor Cash Rewards is a great way to earn cash back on all your purchases.

With it, you'll earn 5% back on hotels, rental cars and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel, 3% back on dining, entertainment and select streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Target and Walmart) and 1% back on all other purchases.

While the welcome bonus isn't lucrative, it does have a relatively low spending requirement. Given the expenses of studying abroad, every little bit helps.

To learn more, read our full review of the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards.

Learn more: Capital One Savor Cash Rewards

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is one of our favorite credit cards, and for a good reason. It offers excellent value for its low annual fee.

Welcome bonus: Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

TPG's valuations place this welcome bonus at $1,538.

Annual fee: $95

Why it's great for studying abroad: The Sapphire Preferred may be out of range if you're just starting your credit card journey, but it's certainly one to set your sights on if you're eligible.

It's a great starter card if you want to get into points and miles, thanks to its high earning rates on travel and dining. Every time you book a flight on Ryanair or end up at Wok to Walk again, you'll rack up fully transferable points.

And when you're ready to redeem the points you've earned with the Sapphire Preferred, you have some great options. Most simply, you can use your points with Points Boost to purchase flights and book hotel rooms through Chase Travel at a rate of up to 1.75 cents per point (depending on the specific redemption; see your rewards program agreement for full details).

But you can get even more value from your rewards by taking advantage of the card's ability to transfer points to any of Chase's airline and hotel partners.

To learn more, read our full review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred.

Apply here: Chase Sapphire Preferred

American Express Green Card

The Amex Green is a great entry point to Amex's lucrative Membership Rewards points for travel enthusiasts.

Welcome bonus: Earn 40,000 points after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first six months of card membership.

This bonus is worth $800, per TPG's valuations.

Annual fee: $150

Why it's great for studying abroad: If you're interested in adding the Amex Green to your wallet for your studies abroad, it's a good idea to get the card before you book your travel. The card earns 3 points per dollar on a wide array of travel purchases, including airfare, hotels, tours and more.

It also earns 3 points per dollar in transit, a category you're likely to spend a good amount in while you're away. This category includes buses, taxis, trains and more.

Pair this with another bonus category, earning 3 points per dollar on dining at worldwide restaurants, and this card is a solid option for students abroad.

TPG values Membership Rewards points at 2 cents apiece when you maximize your earnings by transferring to one of Amex's transfer partners. For a $150 annual fee, this card is a solid earner in the program.

While it's more of an investment than other cards on this list, it offers up to $209 each calendar year for a Clear+ membership to help offset that (enrollment required; subject to auto-renewal).

To learn more, read our full review of the Amex Green.

Related: Who should (and who shouldn't) get the Amex Green card?

Discover it Student Cash Back

If you have limited or no credit history, a student card like the Discover it Student Cash Back is your best bet.

Welcome bonus: Discover will match all the cash back earned during the first 12 consecutive billing periods that the new account is open.

Annual fee: $0

Why it's great for studying abroad: With the Discover it Student Cash Back, you'll get 5% cash back on your first $1,500 in purchases on quarterly rotating categories after you enroll your card and then 1% cash back on everything else. While it isn't a fancy earnings structure, receiving 5% back on certain purchases on a student card is fantastic.

Students studying abroad can get outsize value from this card since all earnings during the first year are doubled.

And you won't have to worry about redemption minimums, so you can cash out your rewards at any time.

To learn more, read our full review of the Discover it Student Cash Back.

Related: 8 things you should know before applying for a credit card in college

Factors to consider when choosing a card for studying abroad

As you prepare to study abroad, look for these qualities to help you choose your best credit card:

• Card acceptance overseas: Not all cards are accepted equally around the world, so it's important to choose one you can rely on wherever you're headed. For the smoothest experience, it's a good idea to carry at least one Mastercard or Visa while studying abroad, since they tend to offer the broadest global acceptance (particularly across Asia, Europe and Latin America). American Express is widely accepted in many major cities, but this varies by country and merchant type. Discover's international acceptance is improving, but it remains less consistently accepted than the other major networks in many study-abroad destinations.
• Foreign transaction fees: Choose a card that doesn't charge fees on foreign transactions. If you use a debit or credit card that charges foreign transaction fees, you'll incur an additional fee of up to 5% on every purchase (with 3% being the average).
• Travel protections: Look for a credit card with travel protections that cover you when something goes wrong, such as travel delays, cancellations and other mishaps.
• Welcome bonus: Look for a card that offers a welcome bonus. The extra spending you'll do on your semester abroad is a great way to meet the minimum spending requirement to earn a bonus on a new credit card.

If you don't have enough credit to qualify for one of our favorite travel rewards cards yet, consider becoming an authorized user on a loved one's account. This will allow you to benefit from the card's protections and can also boost your credit score.

Related: The benefits of adding a relative as an authorized user

Bottom line

You'll spend heavily during a semester abroad — from flights and trains to group dinners and weekend trips. Choosing the right credit card turns that unavoidable spending into a strategic advantage.

A well-chosen, no-foreign-transaction-fee card can save you money from day one, while strong bonus categories, travel protections and flexible redemption options help you maximize every euro, pound or yen you spend.

Pick a card aligned with how you travel and what you value, and your time abroad won't just be unforgettable; it may also set you up for future trips you can book with the rewards you earn along the way.

Related: Can you pay your student loans with a credit card?

The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card isn't the most rewarding Delta Air Lines credit card, but I think it's the sweet spot for occasional Delta travelers. The card's free checked bag benefit, priority boarding and award flight discount can easily offset the annual fee ($0 introductory for the first year, then $150 annually; see rates and fees) if you fly Delta just a few times per year.

If you're chasing lounge access or elite status, there are better Delta cards to consider. But for travelers who simply want to make Delta flights more affordable, the Delta Gold Amex remains one of the airline's strongest low-annual-fee cards.

Card rating*: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ *Card rating is based on the opinion of TPG's editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.

Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex: The basics

If you're looking for an entry-level airline credit card, the Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex offers a solid mix of Delta-specific travel perks and ongoing value for a moderate annual fee.

Here's what you need to know:

• Annual fee: $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150 annually
• Best for: Occasional Delta flyers seeking airline perks without paying for a premium travel card
• Rewards structure: Ability to earn bonus miles on Delta purchases, dining and U.S. supermarkets, plus miles on all other eligible purchases
• Key benefits: First checked bag free on flights worldwide and second checked bag free on U.S. domestic flights, Zone 5 priority boarding, 15% off Delta-operated award flights through TakeOff 15, annual Delta Stays and ride-hailing credits, and a path to earn a Delta flight credit
• Rewards currency: Delta SkyMiles, best redeemed for Delta flights and partner award travel

Unlike cards that earn transferable rewards, the Delta Gold Amex earns Delta SkyMiles directly. That means it's best for travelers who fly Delta at least a few times per year and can take advantage of the card's airline-specific perks.

Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex pros and cons

Related: Which Delta credit card is right for you? Expert advice from frequent Delta flyers

Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex benefits

First checked bag free (and second bag on domestic Delta flights)

This is easily the Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex's most valuable benefit.

Cardmembers receive their first checked bag free on Delta-operated flights. The benefit also extends to up to eight companions traveling on the same reservation, creating substantial savings for families and groups.

Even better, cardmembers receive a second checked bag free on U.S. domestic Delta-operated flights, adding even more value.

Delta charges $45 for the first checked bag and $55 for the second checked bag on most domestic U.S. flights, including those to and from Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. As a result, checking one bag on just two round-trip flights — or two bags on three flights — can more than offset the card's $150 annual fee ($0 introductory annual fee for the first year; see rates and fees).

One feature I particularly appreciate is that you don't have to pay for your flight with the card to receive this benefit. Just make sure the reservation includes the cardholder's SkyMiles number.

TPG managing editor Madison Blancaflor says the free checked bag benefit is one reason why she continues to carry the card.

"As someone who doesn't chase elite status with any airline, the elitelike benefits I get with the Delta Gold Amex make it well worth the annual fee," she said. "Having my first checked bag free and 15% off award redemptions has saved me so much money and miles over the years."

Priority boarding

The card includes Zone 5 priority boarding on Delta flights.

While this may sound minor, it can make a meaningful difference when overhead bin space is limited, especially on busy routes.

Save 15% on Delta award flights

One of the most underrated Delta card perks is the TakeOff 15 benefit.

When redeeming SkyMiles for Delta-operated flights through delta.com or the Fly Delta app, cardmembers receive a 15% discount on the number of miles required.

If you redeem Delta miles regularly, this perk alone can save thousands of miles throughout the year.

TPG senior content strategist Gabrielle Bernardini keeps the card despite not flying Delta often.

"Though I don't fly Delta often," she said, "this card remains in my wallet due to several perks: a free checked bag, priority boarding and 15% off award flight bookings."

Delta flight credit

After spending $10,000 on eligible purchases in a calendar year, you'll earn a Delta flight credit worth up to $200.

I view this as a nice bonus rather than a reason to get the card. While this benefit can add value for cardholders who naturally spend $10,000 or more on the card each year, I wouldn't recommend pursuing the spending requirement solely to earn the credit. For many travelers, other rewards cards offer a higher return on everyday spending.

Delta Stays statement credit

Cardmembers can receive up to $100 back annually on prepaid Delta Stays hotel or vacation rental bookings when paying with the card.

For travelers who occasionally book hotels through Delta's travel portal, this credit can help offset a large portion of the annual fee.

Ride-hailing statement credit

After your first card renewal, cardmembers can earn up to $10 in statement credits each month on eligible U.S. ride-hailing purchases with select providers when paying with the card. That's up to $120 in value each year. Enrollment is required.

While I wouldn't value this benefit at the full $120 annually unless you regularly use ride-hailing services, it can provide meaningful savings for frequent airport trips and everyday transportation.

Savings on inflight purchases

Cardmembers receive 20% back as a statement credit on eligible Delta inflight purchases, including food, beverages and headsets. (Wi-Fi purchases are excluded.)

While not a reason to apply for the card on its own, it's a nice perk for travelers who regularly make onboard purchases.

Travel and purchase protections

The card also includes:

• Secondary rental car coverage*
• Baggage insurance**
• Extended warranty protection**
• Purchase protection**

I typically wouldn't recommend choosing a card solely for its protections, but they're valuable to have when travel disruptions or damages to purchases occur.

*Eligibility and benefit levels vary by card. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered, and geographic restrictions apply. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for details. Policies are underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

**Eligibility and benefit levels vary by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for details. Policies are underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

How to earn and use your rewards

Earning Delta SkyMiles

With the Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex, you'll earn:

• 2 miles per dollar spent on Delta purchases (made directly with Delta)
• 2 miles per dollar spent at restaurants worldwide (including takeout and delivery in the U.S.)
• 2 miles per dollar spent at U.S. supermarkets
• 1 mile per dollar spent on other eligible purchases

The bonus categories make the card fairly easy to use for everyday spending, though there are stronger rewards cards available if maximizing earning rates is your primary goal.

Related: 5 things you need to know about Delta SkyMiles

Redeeming Delta SkyMiles

The best way to redeem Delta SkyMiles is typically for flights on Delta and its airline partners.

Because Delta uses dynamic award pricing, award rates vary significantly depending on travel dates and demand. That can make it difficult to target a specific redemption, but there are still excellent options available.

I particularly like Delta's SkyMiles Deals, which periodically offer discounted award flights across the U.S. and internationally.

Delta SkyMiles can also be redeemed on Delta's SkyTeam partners, including Air France, Korean Air and Virgin Atlantic.

These redemptions can sometimes provide better value than Delta-operated flights.

Related: How to redeem your Delta SkyMiles for maximum value

Potential drawbacks of the Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex

The biggest drawback is that the Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex's value depends heavily on flying Delta.

If you aren't checking bags, redeeming SkyMiles or flying Delta once or twice per year, it can be difficult to justify paying the annual fee after the introductory period ends.

The card also lacks premium travel benefits such as airport lounge access, elite status acceleration and companion certificates.

Finally, while the earning rates are decent, they're not compelling enough to make this your primary everyday spending card.

Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex vs. Delta SkyMiles Platinum Amex

Travelers who fly Delta frequently should also consider the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card.

The Platinum version includes many of the same core airline benefits but adds tools that can help you work toward Medallion status and offers a companion certificate each year after renewal.

For occasional Delta travelers, I still think the Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex version delivers the better value proposition.

Is the Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex worth it?

For many Delta travelers, yes.

I think the Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex becomes easy to justify if you check a bag a few times per year, regularly redeem SkyMiles or can use the Delta Stays credit. For occasional Delta flyers, the combination of airline perks and a relatively modest annual fee is hard to beat.

Related: How to get Delta Sky Club lounge access with credit cards, elite status and more

When to apply for the Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex

New Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex Card members can earn up to 90,000 bonus miles: 70,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership, plus an additional 20,000 bonus miles after spending $2,000 on purchases ($5,000 total) in the first six months of card membership.

According to TPG's June 2026 valuations, Delta SkyMiles are worth 1.2 cents each, making this offer worth up to $1,080.

Before applying, it's worth comparing the current offer with the card's past welcome bonuses to see whether it's a particularly good time to apply.

Due to American Express' one-bonus-per-lifetime rule, you generally won't be eligible for the welcome offer if you currently have this card or have previously had it.

Additionally, Amex may consider other factors when determining welcome offer eligibility, including the number of American Express cards you've opened and closed and whether you've held other Delta SkyMiles American Express cards.

Related: Current Delta American Express credit card welcome offers

Other cards to consider if you don't want the Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex

If getting your first checked bag free on flights worldwide, your second checked bag free on U.S. domestic flights and priority boarding when flying Delta for a low annual fee are your main motivators, the Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex is probably your best option. However, another card may be better if you have different goals:

• If you want flexible rewards: The American Express® Gold Card earns American Express Membership Rewards points that can be transferred to Delta (and other loyalty programs). While it doesn't have perks specific to Delta and features a $325 annual fee (see rates and fees), it earns bonus points on flights, dining and groceries. To learn more, check out our full review of the Amex Gold Card.
• If you want a Delta card with no annual fee: The Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card earns Delta SkyMiles on everyday spending and includes perks like Pay with Miles and 20% back on eligible Delta inflight food-and-beverage purchases. It doesn't offer benefits like a free checked bag or priority boarding, but it's a solid option for occasional Delta travelers who want to earn SkyMiles without paying an annual fee. To learn more, check out our full review of the Delta Blue Amex.
• If you want Delta Sky Club access: With the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, you can get access to Delta's network of lounges (subject to limitations) and a companion certificate. For frequent Delta flyers, this card is likely the best fit. To learn more, check out our full review of the Delta Reserve Amex.

For additional options, check out our full lists of the best travel credit cards and the best American Express cards.

Related: What credit score do you need to get Delta SkyMiles American Express cards?

Bottom line

The Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card is a great option because it keeps things simple.

I wouldn't recommend it to travelers chasing luxury perks or elite status. But if your goal is to save money on Delta flights through free checked bags, priority boarding and discounted award tickets, this card delivers more value than its annual fee suggests.

Apply here: Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card

For rates and fees of the Delta Gold Amex, click here.
For rates and fees of the Amex Gold Card, click here.

Along with the regular deals, sweet spots and earning and redemption advice we publish on our site and social media channels every day, TPG has been working hard behind the scenes to find exclusive deals for our subscribers you won't find anywhere else.

How good are these deals?

New subscribers to our TPG Daily newsletter recently scored an exclusive, limited-time 125% bonus on buying Hilton Honors points. It was the highest-ever bonus — higher than any publicly available offer — for buying Hilton Honors points.

With this offer, select subscribers could purchase between 20,000 and 160,000 Hilton Honors points before the bonus was applied. Those who purchased the maximum received a bonus of 200,000 points, bringing their total to 360,000 Hilton points, enough to book the world's most luxurious Hilton properties.

Buying points with a huge bonus like this is a great way to top up your points balance for a dream redemption. It can also be a savvy way to save on cash rates during peak travel times, as TPG contributor Matt Moffitt recently discovered when needing accommodations during Brazil's famous Carnival festival.

If you missed out on this best-ever bonus offer and are looking to boost your points balance, don't despair. More deals are coming soon.

We are always working on new offers to share exclusively with our subscribers. Subscribe to TPG's exclusive offers so you don't miss out.

Related reading:

• TPG exclusive: Travel hacks from Google Flights and an update on basic economy fares
• Buying points and miles saved me over $1,000 on flights and a hotel stay
• When does it make sense to buy points and miles?
• Deal alert: Roame.travel is a great way to find award flights — and TPG has an exclusive discount

Time is running out to earn the best-ever welcome offer on the popular Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees).

The offer is scheduled to end June 15 at 9 a.m. EDT, leaving eligible applicants only a short time to earn the largest publicly available bonus we've ever seen on the card.

Last chance: Apply for the Chase Sapphire Reserve to earn 150,000 bonus Ultimate Rewards points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. This offer ends June 15 at 9 a.m. EDT.

The bonus is worth $3,075 when strategically redeemed for travel through loyalty partners (per our June 2026 valuation of Chase points).

The card carries a high $795 annual fee, but frequent travelers can offset much of that cost through a long list of benefits. These include an annual travel credit, airport lounge access, valuable travel and lifestyle credits and strong earning rates on flight, hotel and dining purchases.

More than just a welcome bonus

While the generous welcome offer is what makes now an especially compelling time to apply, the Chase Sapphire Reserve remains one of the most rewarding premium travel cards on the market.

Cardholders earn elevated rewards on travel and dining purchases, receive a $300 annual travel credit that automatically applies to eligible travel expenses and enjoy access to a growing network of eight Sapphire Lounges in the U.S. and more than 1,800 Priority Pass lounges around the world.

The card's Ultimate Rewards points are also highly valuable because they can be transferred to a range of airline and hotel partners, including United MileagePlus, Virgin Atlantic Flying Club and World of Hyatt.

One of my favorite Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer partners is World of Hyatt, and I recently redeemed Hyatt points for one of my most memorable hotel stays.

My latest redemption: Park Hyatt Marrakech

This spring, I redeemed 105,000 Hyatt points for a three-night stay at the Park Hyatt Marrakech in Morocco.

Located about 20 minutes outside the city, the luxury resort impressed me from the moment I arrived. I particularly enjoyed the delicious food, sprawling gardens and beautiful indoor-outdoor pool complex that made it easy to spend an entire afternoon unwinding at the property.

The Park Hyatt Marrakech is a Category 7 World of Hyatt hotel. Under Hyatt's award chart, a standard room can cost between 25,000 and 55,000 points per night.

That means the Sapphire Reserve's 150,000-point welcome bonus could be enough for four nights at the property at Hyatt's moderate-tier pricing of 35,000 points per night (with 10,000 points left over).

Cash rates at the Park Hyatt Marrakech start at over $500 per night and can easily climb above $700, making Hyatt points an excellent way to save on a luxury stay.

Other ways to use 150,000 Chase points

Hotels aren't the only way to maximize a 150,000-point haul.

For example, you could transfer your points to Air France-KLM Flying Blue. 150,000 points could be enough for as many as five one-way premium economy flights to and from Europe (depending on the routes available through the program's monthly Promo Rewards).

I've flown KLM's premium economy cabin before and came away impressed. It's a comfortable middle ground between economy and business class, offering significantly more space and upgraded dining without requiring the huge number of points often needed for business-class awards. It's also a great option at a time when saver-level business-class award seats can be difficult to find.

Alternatively, you could transfer points to Air Canada Aeroplan and redeem 120,000-150,000 points for a round-trip business-class ticket to Europe on Star Alliance carriers such as Austrian Airlines, Lufthansa and Swiss. That could mean crossing the Atlantic in a lie-flat seat while paying only taxes and fees out of pocket.

Related: 10 best ways to redeem 150,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points

Why you shouldn't wait

We've seen elevated welcome offers on the Sapphire Reserve before, but never one this large.

Whether you're hoping to book a luxury resort in Morocco, fly to Europe in business class or stretch your points across multiple premium economy trips, 150,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points can unlock thousands of dollars in travel value.

And unlike some elevated offers that linger for months, this one already has an end date. The offer is scheduled to disappear June 15 at 9 a.m. EDT, meaning eligible applicants don't have much time left to take advantage.

Related: Am I eligible for the Chase Sapphire Reserve's 150,000-point bonus?

Bottom line

The Chase Sapphire Reserve's limited-time 150,000-point welcome offer is the largest publicly available bonus we've ever seen on the card.

Combined with valuable perks like an annual travel credit, airport lounge access and the ability to transfer points to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs, it's one of the most valuable premium travel card offers currently available.

To learn more about the card, read our full review of the Chase Sapphire Reserve.

Apply here: Earn 150,000 bonus points with the Chase Sapphire Reserve.

As someone who flies almost weekly, choosing the right card for airfare purchases matters to me. The card that earns the most points isn't always the one I reach for. I tend to prioritize travel protections and the ability to deal directly with an airline when something goes wrong.

That's especially true now that credit card issuers are investing heavily in their travel portals. These portals can offer eye-catching earning rates, but booking through one can also come with trade-offs.

Here are the best credit cards for booking flights and how I think about choosing between booking directly with an airline or through a credit card travel portal.

The top cards for booking flights

• Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees)
• Citi Strata Elite℠ Card (see rates and fees)
• American Express Platinum Card®
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
• Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card (see rates and fees)
• Citi Strata Premier® Card (see rates and fees)
• American Express® Gold Card
• American Express Green Card®

The information for the American Express Green Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Comparison of the best cards for booking flights

Should you book flights through a credit card travel portal?

Credit card issuers have invested heavily in travel portals to encourage cardholders to keep more of their travel spending within their ecosystems. That's why portal earning rates have become so generous.

However, more points don't always mean better value.

TPG's analysis of online travel agency pricing found that portal prices can be higher than booking directly with an airline. Capital One Travel had the smallest average markup at less than 1%, followed by Chase Travel at roughly 6%, American Express Travel at just over 10% and Citi Travel at nearly 15%.

Booking through a portal can also make changes and cancellations more complicated since you'll often need to work through the portal rather than directly with the airline.

Personally, I've decided the extra points usually aren't worth the added complexity. I typically book directly with airlines and use a card with strong travel protections. However, the right choice depends on your itinerary, number of travelers and potential rewards.

Booking through a portal generally won't prevent you from earning airline miles or elite status credits, provided your frequent flyer number is attached to the reservation. And if you're booking an award ticket and only paying taxes and fees, I'd prioritize travel protections over earning rates.

One exception is airline credit cards. If you're loyal to a specific carrier, benefits such as free checked bags, priority boarding and elite-status boosts may outweigh earning additional transferable points.

Related: How to choose an airline credit card

Chase Sapphire Reserve

Annual fee: $795

Welcome offer: Earn 150,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Airfare earning rate: Earn 8 points per dollar on flights booked through Chase Travel and 4 points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines.

Why I like it: The Chase Sapphire Reserve is my top overall pick for booking flights. It earns the highest portal rate on this list, but what really sets it apart is its travel protections.

I fly frequently, and things occasionally go wrong. Last year, the Sapphire Reserve helped cover the cost of a damaged checked bag after an airline mishandled it. That's one reason I continue to use this card for many flight purchases, even when another card might earn slightly more points.

You'll also receive up to $300 in annual travel credits that can be used on flights booked directly with airlines or through Chase Travel.

Access to Sapphire Lounges is another major selling point.

To learn more, read our full review of the Chase Sapphire Reserve.

Apply here: Chase Sapphire Reserve

Citi Strata Elite

Annual fee: $595

Welcome offer: Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.

Airfare earning rate: Earn 6 points per dollar on flights booked through Citi Travel and 1.5 points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines.

Why I like it: The Citi Strata Elite is one of the strongest cards for travelers who are comfortable booking through a travel portal. Earning 6 points per dollar on flights through Citi Travel can add up quickly.

However, the card's earning rate drops significantly when booking directly with airlines, so it's best suited to travelers who regularly use Citi Travel and are willing to compare prices before booking.

Another major advantage is that Citi ThankYou Rewards points can be transferred to American Airlines AAdvantage. Cardholders also receive four Admirals Club passes each calendar year, making the card particularly attractive for AA flyers.

To learn more, read our full review of the Citi Strata Elite.

Apply here: Citi Strata Elite

American Express Platinum

Annual fee: $895 (see rates and fees)

Welcome offer: New cardmembers can find out their offer and may be eligible for as high as 175,000 bonus points after spending $12,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership. (Welcome offers vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer.)

Airfare earning rate: Earn 5 points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar spent).

Why I like it: The Amex Platinum remains one of the strongest cards for airfare purchases thanks to its combination of rewards and airport benefits.

The card offers the broadest lounge access of any card on this list, including Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required) and Delta Sky Clubs (limited to 10 annual visits; unlimited visits can be unlocked by spending $75,000 or more on your card in a calendar year).

You'll also receive up to $200 in annual airline incidental fee statement credits and up to $209 in annual Clear+ statement credits (subject to auto-renewal; enrollment required for select benefits).

If airport lounge access is your top priority, this is the card I'd choose.

To learn more, read our full review of the Amex Platinum.

Apply here: American Express Platinum

Capital One Venture X

Annual fee: $395

Welcome offer: Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Airfare earning rate: Earn 5 miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel and 2 miles per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines.

Why I like it: The Venture X is one of the most compelling cards for travelers who don't mind booking through a travel portal.

You can use the card's annual $300 Capital One Travel credit toward flights booked through Capital One Travel, and the portal includes useful features such as price prediction, price drop protection and price matching.

The card also includes access to Capital One Lounges.

What makes the Venture X particularly appealing is that Capital One Travel had the smallest average markup in TPG's portal pricing analysis. If you're looking to maximize rewards through a portal while minimizing the risk of paying more than you would directly with an airline, this is one of the best options available.

For more details, read our full review of the Capital One Venture X.

Learn more: Capital One Venture X Rewards

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey

Annual fee: $95

Welcome offer: Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months.

Airfare earning rate: Earn 4 points per dollar on airlines.

Why I like it: The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey earns a strong return on airfare purchases without requiring you to book through the issuer's travel portal.

That's an attractive proposition for travelers who prefer booking directly with airlines while still earning an elevated return.

The main drawback is that Wells Fargo has fewer transfer partners than the other rewards programs on this list. For some travelers, that won't matter; for points enthusiasts seeking maximum flexibility, it may.

To learn more, read our full review of the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey.

Apply here: Wells Fargo Autograph Journey

Citi Strata Premier

Annual fee: $95

Welcome offer: Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.

Airfare earning rate: Earn 3 points per dollar on air travel.

Why I like it: The Citi Strata Premier is one of the best all-around rewards cards available.

In addition to earning 3 points per dollar on airfare, it also earns bonus points on several popular spending categories, including hotels, restaurants and supermarkets.

Unlike several other cards on this list, the Citi Strata Premier does not include airport lounge access. However, if you're looking for a relatively low annual fee card that earns well across both travel and everyday spending, it's an excellent option.

To learn more, read our full review of the Citi Strata Premier.

Apply here: Citi Strata Premier

American Express Gold

Annual fee: $325 (see rates and fees)

Welcome offer: New cardmembers can find out their offer and see if they are eligible for as high as 100,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 on purchases within the first six months of card membership. (Welcome offers vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer.)

Airfare earning rate: Earn 3 points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or through amextravel.com and the Amex Travel App.

Why I like it: The Amex Gold isn't primarily known as an airfare card, but it still earns a respectable return on flights.

This card makes the most sense for travelers who already use it for dining and supermarket purchases and want to continue earning Membership Rewards points when booking airfare.

To learn more, read our full review of the American Express Gold.

Apply here: American Express Gold

American Express Green

Annual fee: $150

Welcome offer: Earn 40,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership.

Airfare earning rate: Earn 3 points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel.

Why I like it: The Amex Green is one of the most underrated travel cards on the market.

It earns 3 points per dollar on a broad range of travel purchases — not just airfare — and includes up to $209 in annual Clear+ statement credits (enrollment required).

If you want a lower-fee way to earn Membership Rewards points on travel purchases, it's worth a look.

To learn more, read our full review of the American Express Green.

Bottom line

The best card for booking flights depends on your priorities:

• The Chase Sapphire Reserve is my top pick thanks to its combination of travel protections and rewards.
• If airport lounge access is your main goal, the Amex Platinum stands out.
• If you're comfortable booking through a portal, the Capital One Venture X offers strong earning rates and historically low markups compared with competing portals.

Chasing every last point isn't always the smartest move. For me, strong travel protections and the ability to deal directly with an airline often outweigh a higher earning rate — but the right choice ultimately depends on how you travel.

Related: 9 things to consider when choosing to book via a portal vs. booking directly

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

Peru is a country of jaw-dropping landscapes, but I didn't come for the ancient Incan ruins of Machu Picchu. I came for Lima, a vibrant city that's home to 11 million people. On my first evening in town, standing on the Malecón pedestrian boardwalk above the Costa Verde cliffs, I watched as the Pacific turned amber and then violet as the sun set. I understood immediately why the Peruvian capital deserves a trip all its own.

Most first-time visitors to Peru spend exactly one night here before rushing off to Machu Picchu. I spent four — and I'd argue that's the smarter trip. The capital has quietly become one of the most compelling urban destinations in South America, and Miraflores, its most visitor-friendly district, now has a luxury hotel worthy of anchoring a proper stay.

Related reading: The best IHG hotels in the world

What's it like at InterContinental Real Lima Miraflores by IHG?

The 292-room, 29-suite InterContinental opened in June 2025, and it still has that unmistakable new-hotel air — everything is in pristine condition with not a nick or scuff in sight. But what strikes you first isn't the newness. It's the lobby.

Interior designer Germán Margozzini, a Lima hospitality veteran, built the ground-floor public spaces around a vocabulary of warm neutrals, dark browns and polished marble. The result: Space that feel luxurious but grounded, more private club than glitzy resort. The centerpiece is a dramatic double-helix spiral staircase, its white sculpted curves and black treads rising through multiple floors against a glass curtain wall, lit from below for effect. It's the kind of architectural gesture that stops you mid-step.

The check-in desk continues that contrast through a traditional-style dark wood counter with carved legs, that wouldn't look out of place in a Lima mansion, set against a floor-to-ceiling shelving installation styled like a gentleman's library: curated art books, ceramic vessels, a brass dome lamp. Overhead, a large abstract ink painting anchors the wall. In the adjoining lounge, large circular sculptural rings hang from a double-height ceiling, while oversized photographs of grand European interiors — gilded halls, chandeliered corridors — share wall space with bold geometric abstracts. It's eclectic but considered, and it gives the lobby a gallery-like energy that rewards lingering.

Add to this the extravagant floral arrangements — towering bursts of birds-of-paradise alongside ginger and tropical foliage that feel distinctly Peruvian — and you have a first impression that is, frankly, quite good. Whether it all adds up to a "sense of place" is a fair question; Margozzini's design sensibility skews cosmopolitan over local. But it's polished, warm and beautiful.

What's also interesting is that the complex comprises two related properties that share restaurant access: the InterContinental and Hotel Indigo Miraflores. This is actually the first Hotel Indigo in South America. The location seals the deal: a quick walk across the street reaches Larcomar, and the Malecón walking path puts the artsy Barranco neighborhood well within reach.

The Executive Club lounge was another compelling feature: A dedicated VIP space with panoramic Pacific views, comfy seating and complimentary food and beverages (the local Inca Kola was a treat). Staff learned our names immediately and helped us plan daily itineraries and suss out restaurants that matched our tastes.

And the rooftop infinity pool, while not large, was uncrowded and offered splendid ocean views. A very relaxing spot.

How much does it cost to stay at the InterContinental Lima and how should you book it?

Looking at the hotel's cash prices over the next 12 months, you'll find all-in nightly rates from $269 to $299 in June, August through February, and in April. If you prefer to use IHG One Rewards points, nights during those months range from 47,000 to 53,000 each. March, May and July are pricier, with nights ranging from $385 to $497 or 60,000 to 85,000.

Related reading: IHG One Rewards: How to earn and redeem points, elite status and more

The hotel offers 441-square-foot Classic rooms, many with excellent ocean views. The 29 suites have a bit more variety. Junior Suites are available at 600 to 670 square feet, as well as a larger version that's roughly 800 square feet. Both options offer ocean views. The Executive Suite lands at 1,220 square feet and offers a separate bath and walk-in shower, while the largest suite, the 2,010-square-foot Ambassador Suite, offers a separate bath and walk-in shower. All rooms and suites may include access to the club lounge, depending on your booking.

Before booking my stay, I considered all the options. I could have used IHG One Rewards points for my April stay (or transferred Chase Ultimate Rewards points to my IHG account). However, the cash price was low (about $280 per night), so that didn't make sense.

Knowing I'd pay cash, the next question was which credit card and travel booking portal would offer the most enticing benefits and extras. My options included booking with my:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve card via the Chase portal and taking advantage of The Edit and IHG-specific annual credits,
• American Express Platinum via Amex's Fine Hotels + Resorts program, offering free breakfast, food and beverage credit and the possibility of a space-available room upgrade,
• Bilt Palladium card, which offers a Home Away from Home booking with extras (since I have Bilt Gold status) and the option to use some Bilt Cash that I recently earned.

I opted to book this stay with my Bilt card. It was absolutely the right thing to do. Not only did I receive a room upgrade, but also access to the exclusive Executive Club lounge, free breakfast daily and IHG elite night credit.

Rooms at InterContinental Real Lima Miraflores by IHG

The InterContinental's guest rooms and suites are well-designed and spacious. They are exactly what you'd expect at an InterContinental property: modern yet understated design with high-end flourishes and Byredo Bal D'Afrique bath amenities.

Rooms are very comfortable but they don't exude the Peruvian spirit. Don't get me wrong, I loved our junior suite with its light wood flooring, crisp grays and greens with a few pops of orange, but the room could have been anywhere in the world. In fact, the box cutout framing the floor-to-ceiling windows reminded me of The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto.

We actually got to stay in two different rooms: a king Classic with Executive Club access on a high floor and one of the 800-square-feet Junior Suites (also with club access). Both were upgrades of the Classic king room I booked through Bilt's Home Away from Home platform.

The move to the suite was due to a faulty air-conditioner that decided to kick the bucket in our first room. The in-house handyman tried to get it started again, but after two tries, the hotel decided to move up to the suite to avoid any wasted vacation time. We appreciated that. A sweet snack (some chocolates) greeted us upon arrival in both rooms. That was lovely, but I would have preferred something with a stronger Peruvian flair. Earlier in the trip, we stayed at the JW Marriott Hotel Lima and received two good-sized bottles of fancy local sea salt as a welcome gift.

I would book the Classic king again for short stays, but for three or more nights, I'd likely spring for the Junior Suite. It was nice having a dining table and chairs as well as a full sofa. And, the bathroom — with a separate tub and shower — was a plus.

Dining at InterContinental Real Lima Miraflores by IHG

The Executive Club lounge on the 20th floor offered the best dining we experienced at the hotel.

Our Bilt Home Away From Home booking also included complimentary breakfast at The Market on the third floor. We chose the buffet, but you can also order from the a la carte menu. The fruit and array of fresh juices were especially good. The Market is also open for lunch and dinner.

I'm sorry to say that the one dinner we had at the hotel's outdoor Circo was disappointing. The vibe was lovely with comfortable furniture, room between the tables and twinkling fairy lights, but the food was poorly prepared, especially a steak which was so overcooked they had to bring out a second one, and that was equally inedible. We probably should have stuck with a pizza from the brick oven, but the crust seemed too thick — akin to Boboli — for our liking.

I'm hopeful Circo will improve over time (we visited just a few months after the hotel opened). But with so many incredible restaurants in Lima, I would not recommend booking dinner at this hotel. There are far better options just steps away.

Other dining options at the InterContinental include:

• Nau Nikkei Lounge, a restaurant on the rooftop that serves Nikkei cuisine, which is a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian flavors (think sushi, tempura, lomo saltado and more).
• Factory Steak & Lobster on the first floor, serving high-end (pricey) steaks and seafood.
• Nina, located next door at the Hotel Indigo, serves traditional Peruvian dishes. The menu leans into comfort foods, such as papa rellena (potato stuffed with meat, Creole sauce and chili mayonnaise), ceviche and pastel de choclo (short rib with mushrooms, Cajamarca cheese and Peruvian corn cakes).

Amenities and things to do

When in Lima, the destination itself is the star, but the InterContinental Real Lima Miraflores offers some solid amenities for you to enjoy during your downtime. These include the following:

• A spacious fitness center kitted out with TechnoGym gear and weights
• The Presence Spa with one couples treatment room and three single rooms offering massages and facials; you'll also find wet and dry saunas and a relaxation room
• A small but lovely rooftop infinity pool with a half-dozen loungers, two sunbeds and stunning beach and ocean views
• The Executive Club lounge on the 20th floor, serving breakfast and happy hour drinks and snacks for guests booked in Executive rooms and suites
• A business center

Insider tips

• Splurge for a room or suite on a higher floor. The sweeping ocean views from the floor-to-ceiling windows are worth the premium.
• Walk across the street to the Malecón about an hour before sunset for a fantastic photo opp.
• If you have Executive Club access, definitely ask for their assistance in planning your stay. All of the recommendations we received were on point for what was most important for our vacation.
• Visit the pool during early morning hours or at dinnertime and you'll likely have it all to yourself.

Accessibility

InterContinental hotels and resorts do a good job of making their properties accessible and the InterContinental Real Lima Miraflores is no different. As you arrive at the hotel, there is a wide entrance with a ramp for those who need to avoid a step up. Wide entry doors are on either side of the central revolving door.

Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant elevators serve all hotel levels; there is ramp access to the rooftop pool; and the hotel has a wheelchair available for guests as needed.

There are a variety of ADA-compliant and wheelchair accessible guest rooms with features such as bathrooms with grab bars, tall toilet seats, showers with built-in transfer seats and accessible bathroom controls.

Checking out

If you're the type who wants the air of familiarity around you — even while traveling — InterContinental Real Lima Miraflores is a good bet. It strikes a nice balance between delivering a product that largely meets your expectations of a high-end property while blending subtle traditional Peruvian flourishes into its interior design and restaurant menus.

Where the InterContinental shines is in the many ways you can book with loyalty points (IHG, American Express Membership Rewards, Bilt, Chase Ultimate Rewards and more). And don't forget about those extra credit card benefits — like complimentary space-available room upgrades, free breakfast and other perks — when you book via portals like American Express Fine Resorts + Hotels, Chase's The Edit and Bilt's Home Away From Home program.

However, if you normally gravitate toward boutique or art-centric properties, look in the nearby Barranco neighborhood. There, you're closer to quiet tree-lined streets, cool shops and artists' galleries, such as the excellent Museo Jade Rivera.

Looking for romantic sunset and ocean views with quick access to the Malecon boardwalk right outside your door? Then the InterContinental is a fantastic choice.

Related reading:

• The award traveler's guide to IHG One Rewards
• The best credit cards to reach elite status
• What is IHG One Rewards elite status worth?
• Current offers on IHG One Rewards credit cards
• Which credit cards offer the most lucrative rewards for hotel stays?
• The best hotel rewards programs in the world
• Best hotel credit cards

Some of us are into points and miles for the luxury of it all: the business-class flights with tablecloth service and the opulent hotel upgrades to stunning suites so high up your eyes might start to water. I fall into a secondary set of enthusiasts: People on a mission to see what the world has to offer, with award travel acting as the guide.

Growing up in Florida, a state chock-full of natural splendor, I learned early on that our planet was bountiful and, for the most part, free to explore if you stick to what Mother Nature gave us. As an adult, this mindset translates to affordable memory-making travel with Earth's landscape as the main attraction, as well as an opportunity to take advantage of points and miles along the way. My favorite way to do this is with bonus points and miles promotions.

Hyatt's recent bonus points promotion

Instead of having a destination in mind, I like to let promotions do the initial planning for me.

World of Hyatt recently had an offer to earn 3,000 bonus points for every three nights stayed at an eligible hotel. If you really wanted to commit to the bit, you could have done this several times to earn up to 21,000 bonus points — enough to get you a couple of free nights at a lower-tier Hyatt property.

At the beginning of the promotional window, my partner and I visited Southern California, earning two eligible nights from our stay at the Hyatt Regency Orange County. Though the property is generally known as a place to stay when visiting Disneyland, we were in town to see a post-punk show one night and a podcast taping the next and found it to be a good location to use as home base. Even though I don't currently hold any World of Hyatt status and only spent $367 total, we got lucky with a spacious suite upgrade overlooking the atrium lobby.

Back home, I realized I only needed one more night to receive bonus points.

My first thought was to consider Hyatt properties around New York City for a quick staycation. The Livingston had opened recently in my own borough of Brooklyn, and Mr & Mrs Smith's Rockaway Hotel + Spa on the coast and just a short train ride away looked like a quaint, little retreat.

But then I thought about traveling within the state to see nature.

Of course, Niagara Falls came to mind. I'd never been, and I always felt like I needed to see it with my own eyes.

Lucky for me, I quickly discovered a newly renovated Hyatt hotel on the Canadian side of the falls had just opened, transitioning from an out-of-fashion Embassy Suites into an airy and welcoming Hyatt Regency. I immediately made plans, as the end date for the bonus points promo was fast approaching.

Getting to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls

From New York City, getting to Niagara Falls is fairly simple — even without a car. While you can drive — which takes about 6 1/2 hours but may cause some headaches when trying to park due to the high parking fees anywhere and everywhere — or take an Amtrak train, I flew via Delta Air Lines in premium economy from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF). The flight is so short you barely have time to read a full book chapter.

Once you land, you can take a 30- to 40-minute Uber ride directly to the American side of the falls and walk across the Rainbow Bridge, getting smacked right in the face with Niagara Falls' majesty the moment you see it, to reach the Canadian side. Simply show your passport and state your reason for your visit when you cross to gain entry and start exploring.

The scenic mile to the hotel, situated right next to the biggest and most jaw-dropping portion of the falls, is walkable. However, I need to warn you that there is a very large hill on the way. I learned this the hard way, so if trekking with a rolling suitcase isn't your vibe, you can call another Uber or hop on the easy-to-use public bus.

Checking into the Hyatt Regency Niagara Falls Fallsview

Not everyone likes a conference hotel, but I personally find them consistent in quality and budget-friendly — particularly my Hyatt Regency stays.

This property, standing 42 stories tall and visible for miles, felt decidedly like it belonged in Niagara Falls. Just like its surrounding buildings, it had a certain Las Vegas-esque spectacle to it, dampened only by the dreary offseason.

With a Starbucks in the lobby, two chain restaurants, a big indoor pool, a workout room and a gaming zone that felt a little bit like it belonged in the backrooms, the hotel has everything you need to keep entertained during your stay — and whatever else you may find yourself needing is only a short walk away.

As for my room, I initially booked one with a view. However, I paid an extra $70 a night to upgrade to a suite on a high floor with a better view of Horseshoe Falls and a Jacuzzi tub just for fun. I'm so glad I did because it was the most memorable view I've ever woken up next to.

The queen-size bed was incredibly comfortable, and the Jacuzzi tub made for a perfectly cozy night in with a bottle of wine I purchased from a local vineyard.

Though I only needed one qualifying night for my bonus points, I chose to stay two nights so I could properly visit the falls and see more of its surrounding area. All in, my two-night stay cost 632.16 Canadian dollars (about $453).

Thanks to the property's renovations, some of which seemed to still be in the works while I was present, there was a bit of a new paint and carpet smell. At the same time, it felt special to be there for its first couple of weeks back in business, like a little secret only I knew about.

Bottom line

Niagara Falls is a true natural wonder, and getting to see it in person is something I'll never forget.

At the end of this bonus points challenge from my three eligible nights, I added 7,300 points (4,300 standard points plus the 3,000-point bonus) to my Hyatt account. But perhaps the best part of it all was that I gained a ton of memories I'll never forget.

If you're also a newbie to points and miles, bonus challenges are a great way to expedite and maximize your points and miles as you travel.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees) is the premium travel rewards card for Chase Ultimate Rewards enthusiasts to earn valuable transferable points and enjoy top-tier card benefits.

The Sapphire Reserve's current bonus is sky-high: New cardholders earn 150,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. This is the highest public offer we've ever seen on the card. This bonus is worth $3,075, per TPG's June 2026 valuations.

With an offer this valuable, you won't want to miss out. Here are 10 of the most frequently asked questions we've seen on the Sapphire Reserve and its current 150,000-point bonus, answered.

Can I earn the 150,000-point bonus if I previously held the Sapphire Reserve?

Unfortunately, if you have previously held the Sapphire Reserve, you're likely not eligible for this bonus now.

Chase states that you may not be eligible for the bonus if you're a previous cardholder. So, even if you don't currently have the Sapphire Reserve or didn't earn its bonus when you did have it, you shouldn't expect to be eligible for the bonus now.

Related: Am I eligible for the Chase Sapphire Reserve's 150,000-point bonus?

Can current Sapphire Reserve cardholders qualify for or receive this bonus?

If you are a current Sapphire Reserve cardholder, you will not qualify for the current 150,000-point bonus.

It's also worth noting that closing or product-changing your Sapphire Reserve is unlikely to make you eligible, given Chase's restrictions on Sapphire bonuses across your lifetime.

Related: Chase Sapphire Reserve statement credits: What they are and how to use them

Does being an authorized user on a Sapphire Reserve affect my eligibility for the bonus?

Being an authorized user on another person's Sapphire Reserve does not affect your ability to get your own card and earn the bonus.

As long as you've never been a Sapphire Reserve cardholder before and meet other eligibility requirements, you should be eligible to receive the bonus.

Related: 6 ways the Sapphire Reserve cards make international travel even better

Who is eligible for the 150,000-point bonus, and what are the key restrictions?

These are the general eligibility rules for the Sapphire Reserve:

• You can't currently have a Sapphire Reserve card open.
• You may not be eligible if you have previously received a Sapphire Reserve bonus.
• If you previously had a Sapphire Reserve, you may not be eligible for this offer, even if you didn't earn a bonus on that Sapphire Reserve.
• If you have opened five or more new credit cards in the past 24 months, you likely will be declined for a new Chase card.
• Approval depends on your overall credit profile and your relationship with Chase.
• Since the Sapphire Reserve is a Visa Infinite card, you'll need to be eligible for at least a minimum $10,000 credit line.

Related: Chase's 5/24 rule: Everything you need to know

Can Sapphire Preferred cardholders upgrade to the Sapphire Reserve and receive the bonus?

If you currently have the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees) and have never held the Sapphire Reserve, it's likely that you're eligible for the Sapphire Reserve and its bonus — as long as you meet other eligibility requirements (being under 5/24 and having an adequate credit score, as mentioned previously).

Just remember that you'll need to put in a new application for the Sapphire Reserve to receive its bonus. If you simply upgrade your Sapphire Preferred, you won't be eligible for the 150,000-point bonus.

Along these lines, remember that you can carry the Sapphire Reserve and the Sapphire Preferred at the same time.

Related: Have the Chase Sapphire Preferred? You're likely eligible for the Sapphire Reserve. Here's how

Is this the best-ever offer on the Sapphire Reserve?

Yes. The current 150,000-point bonus is the highest publicly available offer we've ever seen on the Sapphire Reserve.

The Sapphire Reserve's previous public bonus offered 125,000 points for the same $6,000 minimum spending requirement (offer no longer available). The card also once provided a highly targeted offer of up to 175,000 points in late 2025 (offer no longer available), but it was not widely accessible.

So, if you're considering wide availability and redemption value, this 150,000-point offer is the highest bonus we've seen.

Related: Chase Sapphire Reserve jumps to 150,000 points — is this the best-ever offer?

What is the real value of 150,000 Ultimate Rewards points?

TPG's June 2026 valuations deem Chase Ultimate Rewards points worth 2.05 cents apiece. When you consider this valuation, the 150,000 points from the Sapphire Reserve are worth a whopping $3,075.

Of course, how much real value you get out of the 150,000-point bonus depends on how you plan to redeem your rewards. If you take the Chase Travel℠ route for booking flights or hotels with your points, you could potentially get up to 2 cents per point in value with Points Boost. Even better, a few hotels are eligible for up to 2.5 cents per point through Points Boost.

We typically recommend you transfer your Ultimate Rewards points to one of Chase's 14 airline and hotel transfer partners. Redeeming this way could get you more than 2.05 cents per point, depending on your redemption.

Related: How to redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points for maximum value

How do I maximize 150,000 Ultimate Rewards points?

There are multiple ways to maximize the Sapphire Reserve's bonus.

Here are a few ideas:

• Transfer to Air Canada Aeroplan to book Swiss business-class seats from Miami International Airport (MIA) to Zurich Airport (ZRH). You could purchase tickets for two passengers with 140,000 points (plus $114.82).
• Transfer to World of Hyatt to book a beach villa at the Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa. "Moderate" rates on the current award chart sit at 60,000 points, so you could book two nights with this bonus during that window — or possibly less, depending on when your stay will be.
• Transfer to Virgin Atlantic Flying Club to book round-trip economy flights from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York to Heathrow Airport (LHR) in London, starting at 6,000 points one-way plus taxes and fees. You could book this itinerary 12 times with the full 150,000-point bonus — or you could save the leftover points for another redemption.

Related: Stretch your points: 8 of the most valuable Chase Points Boost bookings

What's the best strategy to meet the minimum spend and earn the full bonus?

With the current Sapphire Reserve bonus, you'll have to spend $6,000 on purchases in the first three months to earn 150,000 points.

There are many strategies you could employ here, including:

• Buying everything with your new card (including rent and housing costs that you can pay with a credit card)
• Prepaying bills, such as insurance, utilities and other regular expenses
• Picking up the tab when you dine with a larger group
• Donating to charity

These are just a few methods you can use to earn a new cardholder bonus. As always, just be sure you have enough funds in your bank account to pay off your statement balance in full each month. Otherwise, interest and late fees could decrease the value of your rewards.

Related: Why I time my credit card applications around predictable big annual bills and elevated welcome offers

Bottom line

These are some of the most common questions we've seen about the best publicly available offer on the Sapphire Reserve.

With a whopping 150,000 valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards points on the line, you want to be sure you're eligible for this bonus if you're looking to apply. Plus, remember that the card's $795 annual fee is steep, but there are multiple perks that help offset it.

To learn more, read our full review of the Sapphire Reserve.

Apply here: Chase Sapphire Reserve