United℠ Explorer Card

The United℠ Explorer Card offers the perfect blend of practical airline perks and steady rewards. With early boarding, free bags, lounge access, and solid protections, this card adds comfort and convenience to every United flight — all for a fee that’s easy to justify. If United is your go-to airline, this card is a loyal wingman every time you fly.

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United℠ Explorer Card Credit Card

Key Highlights

  • 2X miles on United purchases, dining, and hotels
  • Free first checked bag (a $70 round-trip value)
  • Priority boarding on United flights
  • 2 United Club℠ passes each year
  • No foreign transaction fees
Overview – What Is the United℠ Explorer Card?

The United℠ Explorer Card is a co-branded travel credit card from United Airlines and Chase that brings real value to anyone who flies United even a few times a year. With perks like free checked bags, early boarding, and airport lounge access, it transforms your flying experience from standard to smooth — all for a modest annual fee.

It’s not just about earning miles. It’s about making travel easier, cheaper, and more comfortable.

Welcome Bonus – Miles That Get You Flying Fast
  • Earn 60,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months
  • That’s enough for 2+ round-trip domestic flights (depending on fare and availability)
  • Miles can be used for United and Star Alliance partners (like Lufthansa, ANA, Air Canada)

It’s a solid bonus that can deliver real, immediate travel value.

Earning Structure – Practical Categories with Solid Rates
  • 2X miles on: United Airlines purchases, Dining (including delivery), Hotels booked directly with the hotel
  • 1X mile on everything else

You earn on everyday categories and double up when you fly United, making this card ideal for casual and semi-frequent travelers alike.

Travel Perks – Real Value Before You Even Take Off
  • First checked bag free for you and one companion (must use the card to purchase the ticket)
  • Priority boarding — get early access to overhead bin space
  • 25% back on in-flight purchases (Wi-Fi, snacks, beverages)
  • No foreign transaction fees

Just two round-trips with checked bags could cover the annual fee in value.

United Club℠ Lounge Access – Taste of Luxury
  • Get 2 one-time United Club℠ passes each year
  • Access to comfortable airport lounges with free snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, and quiet seating areas

Perfect for occasional travelers who want premium touchpoints without premium annual fees.

Additional Benefits – Built-in Travel & Purchase Protections
  • Trip cancellation/interruption insurance
  • Baggage delay insurance
  • Auto rental collision damage waiver (primary coverage)
  • Purchase protection and extended warranty
  • Access to Visa Signature® benefits like concierge services and luxury hotel perks

These protections can save you hundreds during unexpected travel hiccups.

Annual Fee – Affordable for the Perks Offered
  • $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95/year after

Easily offset by: A single trip with a checked bag, One nice meal at the airport, Or a round-trip booking with early boarding and priority perks

MileagePlus® Ecosystem – Your Miles, Your Way
  • Redeem miles for flights, upgrades, seat selection, and more
  • Book with United or Star Alliance partners
  • No blackout dates on award tickets
  • Combine points from other Chase Ultimate Rewards® cards for even more flexibility

It’s a great program with international reach and frequent travel deals.

Limitations – Know Before You Apply
  • Perks are United Airlines–specific (not helpful if you fly other carriers often)
  • No lounge access beyond 2 free passes per year
  • Requires good to excellent credit (typically 700+)
  • Limited value if you don’t fly United at least twice a year
Who Should Get the United℠ Explorer Card?
  • Travelers who fly United Airlines at least twice a year
  • People who want priority boarding and free checked bags
  • Occasional travelers who want a taste of premium perks without a premium fee
  • Those looking for airline-specific perks + mileage earning in one package

Ready to Elevate Your Spending?

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