Choosing the right credit card can be a game-changer for frequent travelers, especially those loyal to United Airlines. A United-branded credit card can unlock valuable perks like free checked bags, priority boarding, and bonus miles on United purchases, significantly enhancing your travel experience and accelerating your rewards accumulation. This guide explores the best United Airlines credit cards available in 2024, helping you determine which one aligns best with your spending habits and travel goals.
United Airlines Credit Card Comparison
| Card Name | Key Benefits | Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|
| United Gateway Card | Earn 2x miles on United purchases, gas stations, and local transit; no annual fee; 25% back on in-flight purchases. | $0 |
| United Explorer Card | Earn 2x miles on United purchases and dining; free checked bag for you and one companion; priority boarding; 2 United Club one-time passes per year; up to $100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit. | $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95 |
| United Quest Card | Earn 3x miles on United purchases; 2x miles on dining, travel, and streaming services; $125 annual United purchase credit; up to 5,000 miles back (2 x 2,500) after taking United or United Express flights booked with the card; free first and second checked bags. | $250 |
| United Club Infinite Card | Earn 4x miles on United purchases; 2x miles on dining and all other travel; United Club membership; free first and second checked bags; Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit; primary car rental insurance. | $525 |
| United Business Card | Earn 2x miles on United purchases, dining, gas stations, office supply stores, and local transit; free checked bag for you and one companion; priority boarding; 25% back on in-flight purchases; expanded award availability. | $99 |
| United Club Business Card | Earn 2x miles on United purchases, dining, and all other travel; United Club membership; free checked bag for you and one companion; priority boarding; Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit; primary car rental insurance. | $450 |
| MileagePlus GO Visa Card (Discontinued, but existing cardholders) | Earn 2x miles on United purchases, at restaurants and gas stations; no foreign transaction fees. | $0 |
| MileagePlus Awards Card (Discontinued, but existing cardholders) | Earn 2x miles on United purchases, no foreign transaction fees; 10,000 bonus miles after spending $500 in the first 3 months of account opening. | $0 |
Detailed Explanations
United Gateway Card: This card is an excellent entry-level option for those who want to earn United miles without paying an annual fee. The 2x miles on United purchases, gas stations, and local transit make it a versatile card for everyday spending. The 25% back on in-flight purchases can also add up for frequent flyers.
United Explorer Card: This card is a solid mid-tier option that offers a good balance of benefits and a reasonable annual fee (waived for the first year). The free checked bag benefit alone can easily offset the annual fee for travelers who typically check luggage. The priority boarding and United Club passes provide a taste of premium travel experiences. The statement credit toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck is a valuable perk for streamlining airport security.
United Quest Card: This card is designed for the more frequent United flyer who wants to maximize their rewards and benefits. The higher earning rates on United purchases, dining, travel, and streaming services, combined with the annual United purchase credit, make it a rewarding option. The up to 5,000 miles back after taking United flights booked with the card provides a substantial mileage boost. The free first and second checked bags offer significant savings for those who travel with a lot of luggage.
United Club Infinite Card: This is the premium United credit card, offering the most comprehensive suite of benefits. The United Club membership provides access to United Club airport lounges worldwide, offering a comfortable and convenient travel experience. The higher earning rates, free checked bags, and Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit further enhance its value. The primary car rental insurance can also save you money on rental car protection.
United Business Card: Designed for business owners, this card offers valuable perks for both business and personal travel. The bonus miles on United purchases, dining, gas stations, office supply stores, and local transit cater to common business expenses. The free checked bag and priority boarding make business trips more comfortable. The expanded award availability can make it easier to redeem miles for flights.
United Club Business Card: Similar to the United Club Infinite Card but tailored for business owners, this card provides access to United Club lounges and offers bonus miles on travel and dining. The included free checked bag and priority boarding are also great perks for business travelers. This card is ideal for business owners who frequently fly United and want access to airport lounges.
MileagePlus GO Visa Card (Discontinued): While no longer available to new applicants, existing cardholders can continue to enjoy its benefits. The 2x miles on United purchases, restaurants, and gas stations offered a simple and straightforward rewards program without an annual fee.
MileagePlus Awards Card (Discontinued): Like the GO card, this card is no longer offered but remains active for existing cardholders. The 2x miles on United purchases and the initial bonus miles provided a basic entry point into the United MileagePlus program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which United credit card has the lowest annual fee? The United Gateway Card has no annual fee, making it the most affordable option.
Which United credit card offers United Club access? The United Club Infinite Card and United Club Business Card both offer United Club membership.
Which United credit card offers a free checked bag? The United Explorer Card, United Quest Card, United Club Infinite Card, United Business Card, and United Club Business Card all offer a free checked bag benefit.
Which United credit card is best for frequent travelers? The United Club Infinite Card and United Quest Card are generally considered the best options for frequent travelers due to their comprehensive benefits and higher earning rates.
Can I get a United credit card if I don't fly United often? Yes, but it might not be the most optimal choice. Consider cards with more general travel rewards or cash back if you're not a frequent United flyer.
What is the credit score needed for a United credit card? Generally, a good to excellent credit score (670 or higher) is required for approval.
How do I redeem United miles? You can redeem United miles for flights, upgrades, hotel stays, car rentals, and merchandise through the United MileagePlus website or app.
Are there foreign transaction fees on United credit cards? Some United cards, like the United Club Infinite Card, do not have foreign transaction fees. Check the specific terms of each card.
What is the sign-up bonus for United credit cards? Sign-up bonuses vary and are subject to change. Check the United website or Chase's website for the latest offers.
How do I apply for a United credit card? You can apply online through the United MileagePlus website or Chase's website.
Conclusion
Choosing the best United Airlines credit card depends heavily on your individual travel habits and spending patterns. The United Gateway Card is a great no-annual-fee option, while the United Explorer Card offers a solid balance of benefits for a reasonable price. For frequent United flyers seeking premium perks, the United Quest Card and United Club Infinite Card provide the most comprehensive rewards and travel experiences. Carefully consider your needs and preferences to select the card that best suits your lifestyle and helps you maximize your United MileagePlus miles.