JetBlue's TrueBlue loyalty program offers a compelling way to earn free flights and other travel benefits. Maximizing your TrueBlue points earnings often starts with choosing the right credit card. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the best JetBlue credit card options available in 2024, helping you determine which card best aligns with your spending habits and travel goals.
| Card Name | Key Benefits | Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|
| JetBlue Plus Card | 6x points on JetBlue purchases, 2x points at restaurants and grocery stores, 1x points on all other purchases, 5,000 bonus points annually after account anniversary, free checked bag for cardholder and up to three companions, 50% off in-flight purchases, no foreign transaction fees. | $99 |
| JetBlue Card | 3x points on JetBlue purchases, 2x points at restaurants and grocery stores, 1x points on all other purchases, 50% off in-flight purchases, no foreign transaction fees. | $0 |
| JetBlue Business Card | 6x points on JetBlue purchases, 2x points at restaurants and office supply stores, 1x points on all other purchases, 5,000 bonus points annually after account anniversary, free checked bag for cardholder and up to three companions, 50% off in-flight purchases, no foreign transaction fees. | $99 |
| Chase Sapphire Preferred Card | Earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points that can be transferred to JetBlue at a 1:1 ratio, 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3x points on dining, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services, 2x points on all other travel purchases, 1x point on all other purchases, $50 hotel credit annually. | $95 |
| Chase Sapphire Reserve Card | Earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points that can be transferred to JetBlue at a 1:1 ratio, 10x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3x points on dining and travel, 1x point on all other purchases, $300 annual travel credit, airport lounge access. | $550 |
| American Express Membership Rewards Cards (e.g., Amex Gold, Amex Platinum) | Earn Amex Membership Rewards points that can be transferred to JetBlue at a transfer ratio that varies but is typically less favorable than Chase Ultimate Rewards (e.g., 250 MR points = 100 TrueBlue points). Bonus categories vary by card. | Varies widely |
Detailed Explanations
JetBlue Plus Card
The JetBlue Plus Card is a mid-tier option that offers a strong earning rate on JetBlue purchases and everyday spending categories. You'll earn 6x points on JetBlue purchases, making it ideal for frequent JetBlue flyers. The card also offers 2x points at restaurants and grocery stores, and 1x points on all other purchases. A significant perk is the 5,000 bonus points awarded annually after your account anniversary, helping offset the annual fee. You also get a free checked bag for yourself and up to three companions, saving you significant money on checked baggage fees. Additionally, enjoy 50% off in-flight purchases and the convenience of no foreign transaction fees.
JetBlue Card
The JetBlue Card is an excellent entry-level option with no annual fee. You'll earn 3x points on JetBlue purchases, 2x points at restaurants and grocery stores, and 1x points on all other purchases. Like the JetBlue Plus Card, it offers 50% off in-flight purchases and no foreign transaction fees. This card is perfect for occasional JetBlue travelers who want to earn rewards without paying an annual fee.
JetBlue Business Card
The JetBlue Business Card is designed for small business owners who frequently fly JetBlue. It offers 6x points on JetBlue purchases, 2x points at restaurants and office supply stores, and 1x points on all other purchases. Similar to the JetBlue Plus Card, you'll receive 5,000 bonus points annually after your account anniversary and a free checked bag for yourself and up to three companions. The card also provides 50% off in-flight purchases and no foreign transaction fees.
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is a popular travel rewards card that earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points. These points can be transferred to JetBlue at a 1:1 ratio. You'll earn 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3x points on dining, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services, 2x points on all other travel purchases, and 1x point on all other purchases. The card also offers a $50 hotel credit annually. While it doesn't offer direct JetBlue-specific benefits like free checked bags, the flexibility of Ultimate Rewards points and the valuable bonus categories make it a strong contender.
Chase Sapphire Reserve Card
The Chase Sapphire Reserve Card is a premium travel rewards card that also earns Chase Ultimate Rewards points, which can be transferred to JetBlue at a 1:1 ratio. You'll earn 10x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3x points on dining and travel, and 1x point on all other purchases. The card offers a generous $300 annual travel credit and airport lounge access, making it ideal for frequent travelers. The higher annual fee is offset by the valuable perks and bonus categories.
American Express Membership Rewards Cards (e.g., Amex Gold, Amex Platinum)
American Express Membership Rewards points can also be transferred to JetBlue, but the transfer ratio is typically less favorable than Chase Ultimate Rewards (e.g., 250 MR points = 100 TrueBlue points). This means you'll need to transfer more Amex points to get the same number of TrueBlue points. The bonus categories vary by card; for example, the Amex Gold Card earns 4x points at U.S. supermarkets and restaurants, while the Amex Platinum Card earns 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel. While the transfer ratio isn't ideal, Amex cards can still be valuable if you frequently use them for purchases in their bonus categories and are willing to accept a lower TrueBlue point conversion rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best JetBlue credit card for beginners?
The JetBlue Card is the best option for beginners due to its no annual fee and simple rewards structure. It allows you to earn JetBlue points without any upfront cost.
Which JetBlue credit card offers the most benefits?
The JetBlue Plus Card and JetBlue Business Card offer the most benefits, including a higher earning rate, free checked bag, and annual bonus points. These cards are ideal for frequent JetBlue flyers who can take advantage of the perks.
Can I transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points to JetBlue?
Yes, you can transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points to JetBlue at a 1:1 ratio. This makes cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred and Chase Sapphire Reserve excellent options for earning JetBlue points.
Are there any JetBlue credit cards with no foreign transaction fees?
Yes, all JetBlue credit cards (JetBlue Card, JetBlue Plus Card, and JetBlue Business Card) have no foreign transaction fees. This makes them ideal for international travel.
How do I redeem JetBlue TrueBlue points?
You can redeem JetBlue TrueBlue points for flights, vacation packages, and other travel-related expenses. Redemptions can be made online through the JetBlue website or by calling JetBlue customer service.
Is it worth paying an annual fee for a JetBlue credit card?
It depends on your spending habits and travel frequency. If you frequently fly JetBlue and can take advantage of the free checked bag and other benefits, the JetBlue Plus Card or JetBlue Business Card can be worth the annual fee.
What is the value of a JetBlue TrueBlue point?
The value of a JetBlue TrueBlue point varies, but it is generally estimated to be around 1.3 cents per point. This value can fluctuate based on the specific redemption and demand for flights.
Can I earn JetBlue points on purchases other than JetBlue flights?
Yes, all JetBlue credit cards offer bonus points on purchases at restaurants and grocery stores, and some offer bonus points at office supply stores. This allows you to earn points on everyday spending.
What is the credit score needed to get a JetBlue credit card?
Generally, you'll need a good to excellent credit score (670 or higher) to be approved for a JetBlue credit card. The specific requirements may vary depending on the card and your overall credit profile.
How do I maximize my JetBlue TrueBlue points?
To maximize your JetBlue TrueBlue points, use a JetBlue credit card for all eligible purchases, take advantage of bonus categories, and redeem your points for flights during off-peak seasons. Also, consider transferring points from Chase Ultimate Rewards if you have a card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Chase Sapphire Reserve.
Conclusion
Choosing the best credit card for JetBlue points depends on your individual spending habits and travel preferences. If you are a frequent JetBlue flyer, the JetBlue Plus Card or JetBlue Business Card offer the most direct benefits, including free checked bags and higher earning rates. If you prefer flexibility and broader travel rewards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Chase Sapphire Reserve, allowing you to transfer points to JetBlue, might be a better fit.