Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card Relaunches With New Benefits

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card Relaunches With New Benefits

Subscribe to the Select Newsletter!Our best selections in your inbox. Shopping recommendations that help upgrade your life, delivered weekly. Sign-up here.Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card changesMarriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ American Express® CardOn the American Express secure site

  • Rewards6 Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy™ program, 3 points at Worldwide Restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines. 2 points on all other eligible purchases.
  • Welcome bonusEarn 150,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new card to make $5,000 in purchases on the card within the first 3 months.
  • Annual Fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit needed

Pros

  • Each Card renewal year, get up to $300 in statement credits per calendar year (up to $25 per month) for eligible purchases at restaurants worldwide.
  • One free night award every year after your card renewal month (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points and certain hotels charge additional resort fees) at a participating hotel.
  • $100 property credit on a two-night minimum stay at the Ritz-Carlton® or St. Regis®
  • Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit of up to $100 every four years

Cons

  • High $650 annual fee
  • No introductory 0% APR
  • Estimated points earned after 1 year: 50,955
  • Estimated points earned after 5 years: 254,775

Rewards totals may incorporate the points earned from the welcome bonusAnnual hotel credit shifts to diningThe card’s first change was announced in July, and it’s that the up to $300 Marriott Bonvoy hotel statement credit is being swapped for a dining credit that can be redeemed at any eligible restaurant worldwide. Although it still adds up to the same total, you’ll now only be reimbursed up to $25 per month over the course of 12 months, as opposed to being able to redeem the entire credit at once. Overall, this should give cardholders greater flexibility as they’re not locked into Marriott purchases to earn the statement credit. However, you’ll have to make sure you’re putting at least $25 a month worth of dining purchases on the card to ensure you’re getting maximum value.Free night award becomes more valuableThe Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card previously offered an annual free night award worth up to 50,000 Marriott Bonvoy points. Now, the award can be used towards rooms costing up to 85,000 points, potentially allowing you to book higher-end hotels.Improvements to elite status benefitsCardholders now get Platinum Elite status instead of Gold Elite status, unlocking perks like free breakfast at some brands and upgrades to suites. Additionally, those chasing a higher tier of status now get 25 Elite Night Credits each year instead of 15.Opportunity to earn choice benefitsAlong with the enhancements listed, the card is introducing the opportunity to earn an “Annual Card Choice Award” by spending $60,000 on the card in a calendar year (starting January 2023). You’ll have the choice of five suite night awards, an additional free night award (worth up to 85,000 points) or $750 off a bed from Marriott Bonvoy® Boutiques.New welcome offerTo celebrate the refresh, now through Jan. 11, 2023, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ American Express® Card will offer new cardmembers an elevated welcome bonus of 150,000 Marriott Bonvoy points after they spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on the card in the first three months.Higher annual feeAs you might expect, the new benefits come at a cost. The annual fee on this card is now $650 (see rates and fees), up from $450. If you opened your card before Sept. 22, 2022, the new annual fee will take effect on your first renewal date on or after Jan. 1, 2023.Still, the annual fee can be offset if you take full advantage of all the benefits, with the new or enhanced perks bolded:

  • Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite Status
  • One Free Night Award each year after Card renewal month that can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. Certain hotels have resort fees.
  • Up to $300 in statement credits per calendar year (up to $25 back per month) for dining purchases at restaurants worldwide
  • 25 Elite Night Credits each calendar year to use toward achieving your next level of elite status
  • Up to $100 property credit when staying two nights or more at the Ritz-Carlton® or St. Regis® properties
  • Annual Earned Choice Award: Each calendar year (starting January 2023), after making $60K in purchases, Card Members can select an Earned Choice Award benefit
  • Airport lounge access with Priority Pass Select Membership (enrollment required)
  • Up to $100 for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee
  • Various travel protections
  • *Purchase and return protection

Same earning ratesThere are no changes to the card’s earning rates:

  • 6X points at participating Marriott Bonvoy properties
  • 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines
  • 2X points on all other eligible purchases

Other Marriott Bonvoy credit cardsThere’s no question that the annual fee is high, and you should never put yourself in financial constraint just to hold a credit card. If you prefer a card with a lower (or no) annual fee, Marriott Bonvoy has plenty of other options:Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card

  • RewardsEarn up to 14X total points for every $1 spent at over 7,000 participating Marriott Bonvoy® hotels, 2X points on other travel purchases (from airfare to taxis and trains) and 1X point on all other purchases
  • Welcome bonusLimited Time Offer! Earn 60,000 Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR18.24% – 25.24% variable on purchases and balance transfers
  • Balance transfer feeEither $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit needed

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

  • RewardsEarn 3X points per $1 on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining; 1 Elite Night Credit towards Elite Status for every $5,000 spent; earn up to 17X total points per $1 spent at over 7,000 hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card, and 2X points for every $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Welcome bonusLimited Time Offer! Earn 100,000 Bonus Points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR18.24% – 25.24% variable on purchases and balance transfers
  • Balance transfer feeEither $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit needed

Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® CardOn the American Express secure site

  • Rewards6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy® program, 4X points for each dollar of eligible purchases at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping, 2X points on all other eligible purchases
  • Welcome bonusLimited Time Offer: Earn 100,000 Bonus Marriott Bonvoy Points after spending $4,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months of Card Membership. Offer expires 11/2/22.
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit needed

Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® CardOn the American Express secure site

  • RewardsEarn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points on eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy; 4X Marriott Bonvoy points on up to $15,000 in combined purchases per year at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets (then 2X points); 2X Marriott Bonvoy Points on all other eligible purchases
  • Welcome bonusEarn 125,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after they spend $4,000 in eligible purchases on their card within the first three months
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit needed

Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful™ CardInformation about the Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful™ Card has been collected independently by Select and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of the card prior to publication.

  • Rewards6X Marriott Bonvoy Points on purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy; 4X Marriott Bonvoy Points on up to $15,000 in combined purchases per year at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets; 2X Marriott Bonvoy Points on all other eligible purchases
  • Welcome bonus125,000 Marriott Bonvoy points after they spend $4,000 in eligible purchases on their Card in the first three months
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR18.24% to 25.24% variable
  • Balance transfer feeEither $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit needed

Bottom lineFor rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express Card, click here. For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ American Express® Card, click here.For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card, click here.*Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply.  Please visit americanexpress.com/ benefitsguide for more details.  Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.Editorial Note: Opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Select editorial staff’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any third party. .

Best Credit Cards for Exclusive Events and Experiences

Best Credit Cards for Exclusive Events and Experiences

Select’s editorial team works independently to review financial products and write articles we think our readers will find useful. We earn a commission from affiliate partners on many offers, but not all offers on Select are from affiliate partners.Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.Credit cards can offer a wide range of benefits, from cell phone protection to airport lounge access. Although less talked-about, some even provide access to exclusive events and experiences. This can range from presale tickets for sports games and concerts to exclusive dinners and cardholder-only lounges, and nearly every major card issuer offers such benefits.While these perks went largely unused during the pandemic lockdowns, issuers are now doubling down on these lifestyle and other non-travel benefits. Your credit card may be able to help you get special access at the U.S. Open in New York City, iHeartRadio Festival in Las Vegas, Sundance Film Festival in Park City and beyond.Here are the credit card issuers that offer cardholders access to exclusive events and entertainment experiences, and how you can use these perks.Subscribe to the Select Newsletter!Our best selections in your inbox. Shopping recommendations that help upgrade your life, delivered weekly. Sign-up here.Best credit cards for exclusive events and experiencesUsing credit cards to access events and experiencesEvery credit card issuer handles access to exclusive events and experiences differently.Issuers like American Express may require you to have a specific card, or an invitation, to participate in an event. Others may only require you to be an active cardholder of any of their cards.So if you’re looking to squeeze more value out of your credit card, consider the main credit card issuers below and their offers for cardholders to experience premium events.American ExpressAmerican Express has a large array of events you can attend as a cardholder, but the more premium events are invitation-only. However, even without an invitation, there are many events you can grab tickets to including Broadway shows like Hamilton in New York and concerts like Katy Perry in Las Vegas. A number of major venues, such as Barclays Center and the Crypto.com Arena, also offer exclusive entrances for American Express cardholders.The “By Invitation Only” experiences include access to The Centurion Suite at the U.S. Open, cardmember-exclusive fashion shows and tickets to the Palm Springs Film Awards. Some of these experiences are free while others are paid.You can check out the various experiences here. But to access the more premium events and experiences, you’ll need to have a higher-end card like one of these below:The Platinum Card® from American ExpressOn the American Express secure site

  • RewardsEarn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year, 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel, 1X points on all other eligible purchases
  • Welcome bonusEarn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $6,000 within 6 months of card membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit Needed

The Business Platinum Card® from American ExpressOn the American Express secure site

  • RewardsEarn 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases. Also, earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on eligible purchases at US construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
  • Welcome bonusEarn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases within the first 3 months of card membership
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit needed

American Express® Gold CardOn the American Express secure site

  • Rewards4X Membership Rewards® points at Restaurants (plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.) and at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X), 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, 1X points on all other purchases
  • Welcome bonusEarn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $4,000 on eligible purchases within the first 6 months of card membership
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit needed

Capital OneThe Capital One Entertainment portal is filled with exclusive events and experiences for cardholders. The benefits for cardholders include early access to tickets, special on-site perks at specific venues and the ability to upgrade experiences at certain events using Capital One miles.Some of the events include cardholder-only dinners at Michelin-star restaurants, presale tickets to sporting events like the Capital One Orange Bowl in Miami, VIP packages at music festivals like the iHeartRadio Festival in Las Vegas and more. Through a partnership with The Cultivist, Capital One credit cardholders are also eligible for a six-month complimentary “The Enthusiast” membership, which offers free access to top museums around the world, including the Guggenheim Museum in New York City, San Francisco’s Museum of Modern Art, and the Louvre in Paris.You can visit the Capital One Entertainment portal to see what events are being offered. While you don’t need to have any specific Capital One card to access these benefits, here are some of our favorite credit cards from the issuer:Read more: Here are the best Capital One credit cardsChaseChase offers its Chase Experiences to all cardholders. They include access to exclusive events and Chase Dining experiences, along with additional benefits at events like the U.S. Open and Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival and at venues like the Chase Field, Chase Center and Madison Square Garden. Special benefits can range from priority entry and preferred seating to access to VIP lounges with free refreshments. You can also choose to redeem your Ultimate Rewards points for many of these experiences.There’s also Chase Dining, which give cardholders exclusive access to reservations at upscale restaurants through Tock. Additionally, if you’re looking for tickets for an upcoming sporting event or concert, Chase Experiences comes with access to presales and preferred seating from Ticketmaster. Those with the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or the Chase Sapphire Reserve® get even more benefits, including access to the Sapphire Dining series.So if you’re interested in scoring additional experiences for being a Chase credit card holder, you may consider signing up for one of the cards below:Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

  • Rewards$50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3X points on dining, 2X points on all other travel purchases, and 1X points on all other purchases
  • Welcome bonusEarn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR17.49% – 24.49% variable on purchases and balance transfers
  • Balance transfer feeEither $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit needed

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

  • RewardsEarn 5X total points on air travel and 10X total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3X points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases plus, 10X points on Lyft rides through March 2025
  • Welcome bonusEarn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit needed

CitiThe Citi Entertainment portal offers Citi cardholders early access to ticket presales for concerts, sports and cultural events. At the time of writing, the platform appears to be geared mostly toward concerts.Many tickets are considered ‘Citi Preferred Tickets’ where you will need a qualifying Citi credit card to purchase the tickets. The kicker of this program is that you’ll have a chance to get tickets or VIP packages before non-Citi cardholders for specific events.So if you see an event on the Citi Entertainment platform you’re interested in, it may be beneficial to have a Citi credit card in your wallet to grab your tickets.Citi Premier® Card

  • Rewards3X points per $1 spent at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, and on hotels and air travel, 1X points on all other purchases
  • Welcome bonus80,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer fee5% of each balance transfer, $5 minimum
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit needed

Citi® Double Cash Card

  • Rewards2% cash back: 1% on all eligible purchases and an additional 1% after you pay your credit card bill
  • Welcome bonusFor a limited time, earn $200 cash back after spending $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening.
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR0% for the first 18 months on balance transfers; N/A for purchases
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer feeFor balance transfers completed within 4 months of account opening, an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer ($5 minimum) applies; after that, a balance transfer fee of 5% of each transfer ($5 minimum) applies
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit needed

Bottom lineFor rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, click here.For rates and fees of The Business Platinum® Card from American Express, click here.For rates and fees of the American Express® Gold Card, click here.Editorial Note: Opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Select editorial staff’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any third party. .

Chase Air Canada Aeroplan Credit Card Review 2022

Chase Air Canada Aeroplan Credit Card Review 2022

Select’s editorial team works independently to review financial products and write articles we think our readers will find useful. We earn a commission from affiliate partners on many offers, but not all offers on Select are from affiliate partners.Chase’s Aeroplan® Credit Card offers flyers a great opportunity to earn valuable Aeroplan points and elite benefits, making it a solid choice for those who enjoy international travel.While Aeroplan is the official loyalty program of Air Canada, you don’t necessarily need to be a frequent customer of the carrier to redeem this card’s rewards. In fact, you can use Aeroplan points to book domestic flights on United Airlines, among several other Star Alliance partners such as Lufthansa and Singapore Airlines.With a modest $95 annual fee, valuable spending categories, travel insurance coverage and no foreign transaction fees, it’s a decent choice if you’re in the market for a new travel rewards card.Below, Select details the Aeroplan Credit Card’s benefits, as well as how to maximize the rewards points you’ll earn by using it.Subscribe to the Select Newsletter!Our best selections in your inbox. Shopping recommendations that help upgrade your life, delivered weekly. Sign-up here.Aeroplan Credit Card reviewAeroplan® Credit Card

  • RewardsEarn 3X points for each dollar spent on grocery stores, dining at restaurants and Air Canada directly; 1X points for each dollar spent on all other purchases; 500 bonus points for every $2,000 you spend in a calendar month (up to 1,500 points per month).
  • Welcome bonusEarn 70,000 points after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer feeEither $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit needed

Pros

  • Cardmembers and travel companions (up to eight) traveling on the same reservation will all enjoy free first checked bags on Air Canada.
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck/NEXUS credit of up to $100 every four years
  • No fees on purchases made outside the U.S.

Cons

  • $95 annual fee
  • No introductory 0% APR

Welcome bonusThe Aeroplan Credit Card’s welcome bonus lets new cardholders earn 70,000 points after they spend at least $3,000 within the first three months of account membership.Since Aeroplan points are among the most valuable travel rewards, the bonus is even more lucrative. To start, by meeting the $3,000 minimum spend, you will have earned at least 73,000 Aeroplan points. A modest 1.3 cent per point valuation makes the welcome bonus worth about $949 and since the annual fee is only $95, the card provides a solid first-year value for new cardholders.Keep in mind that this card falls under Chase’s 5/24 restriction, so if you’ve been approved for more than five credit cards within the last 24 months, you’ll automatically be rejected when you apply for any new Chase cards.Benefits and perksThe Aeroplan Credit Card comes with several perks aimed at helping avid travelers score an easier journey. Cardholders have access to the following benefits:

  • Instant Aeroplan 25K Status for the rest of the calendar year and the following calendar year, giving you access to more perks including priority check-in, security and boarding; two one-time passes to Air Canada’s Maple Leaf Lounges and premium-cabin upgrades. You can also maintain the same status level by spending $15,000 during a calendar year.
  • The ability to elevate your Aeroplan status level to 35K Status or higher when you spend $50,000 during a calendar year.
  • A $100 statement credit every four years to put toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® membership.
  • You and up to eight travel companions (as long as you’re all on the same reservation) can enjoy a complimentary checked bag, up to 50 lbs, when traveling with Air Canada.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Access to 24/7 concierge services.
  • Travel insurance coverage, including trip cancellation and interruption insurance, reimbursement for trip delays, baggage delay insurance, roadside assistance and an auto rental collision damage waiver, among other purchase protections.

How to earn and redeem Aeroplan pointsEarning Aeroplan pointsAs you spend with the Aeroplan Credit Card, you’ll earn:

  • 3X points per dollar at grocery stores and restaurants (takeout and certain delivery services count, too), as well as purchases made with Air Canada directly.
  • 1X points per dollar for all other purchases.
  • Up to 500 bonus points for every $2,000 spent each month, up to 1,500 bonus points per month.

Redeeming Aeroplan pointsThe more you use your card, the more you’ll accumulate Aeroplan points, which can then be redeemed for flights operated by Air Canada and its many Star Alliance airline partners, including United Airlines, Lufthansa, Singapore Airlines and Air New Zealand, as well as a number of non-alliance partners such as Brazil-based Azul and United Arab Emirates-based Etihad Airways. Regardless of whether you prefer to travel domestically or internationally, you’ll have many options when it’s time to redeem your Aeroplan points.Here are a few examples of some economy and premium cabin flights you can book with Aeroplan points (note that all pricing is based on a one-way flight and does not include taxes or fees):

  • Within the United States: Economy redemptions start at 6,000 points, while business class redemptions start at 25,000 points on United Airlines.
  • U.S. to Asia: Economy flights to Seoul are available from 50,000 points in economy or from 75,000 points in business class on either United Airlines or Asiana Airlines.
  • U.S. to Europe: Economy flight redemptions to Frankfurt start at 35,000 points, while business class redemptions start at 60,000 points on Lufthansa.

To get a better idea of how many points you’ll need for your next trip, refer to Aeroplan’s award chart.Rates and feesThe card has a modest $95 annual fee, along with a 17.99% to 24.99% variable APR on purchases and balance transfers.There are no foreign transaction fees, so you can travel and spend outside the U.S. without incurring any additional fees.Card comparisonAeroplan Credit Card vs. Chase Sapphire Preferred CardChase Sapphire Preferred® Card

  • Rewards$50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3X points on dining, 2X points on all other travel purchases, and 1X points on all other purchases
  • Welcome bonusEarn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That’s $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR17.49% – 24.49% variable on purchases and balance transfers
  • Balance transfer feeEither $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit needed

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a top travel rewards credit card that lets you earn Chase Ultimate Rewards® points, which can be transferred to a number of airline and hotel partners, including Aeroplan. The welcome bonus currently offers new cardholders 60,000 points after spending $4,000 within the first three months of card membership.Cardholders can earn:

  • 5X points for travel purchased via Chase Ultimate Rewards (minus hotel stays that qualify for the included $50 annual hotel credit you’ll earn when booking hotels through the portal).
  • 5X points for eligible Lyft rides through March 31, 2025.
  • 3X points for dining purchases, including takeout and select delivery services.
  • 3X points for using certain streaming and online grocery shopping services, not counting Target, Walmart or other wholesale stores.
  • 2X points for all other travel-related purchases.
  • 1X points for all other purchases.
  • Complimentary DashPass membership from DoorDash and Caviar for one year — as long as you activate the perk by Dec. 31, 2024.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card also includes many of the same benefits as the Aeroplan Card, including comprehensive travel insurance protections, no foreign transaction fees and the ability to transfer points to additional airline partner loyalty programs, all for the same $95 annual fee.For those deciding between these two cards, it really comes down to your personal travel habits and goals. If you solely enjoy flying with Air Canada, the Aeroplan Card is the clear winner as you will score automatic elite status.If you prefer to fly with other airlines as well, it might be worth having both cards, especially since you can transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points to Aeroplan at a 1:1 ratio. Signing up for both cards (and reaching both minimum spending requirements) would end up netting you more than 130,000 points, which could then be redeemed through Aeroplan — all for a combined $190 in annual fees, providing a solid value for any traveler.Aeroplan Credit Card vs. Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Credit CardSouthwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card

  • RewardsEarn 3X points on Southwest® purchases, 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare; 2X points on internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming; 1X points on all other purchases
  • Welcome bonusNew Offer: Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fees
  • Credit needed

The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card is a great addition, especially for flyers who are loyal to the budget airline.To get started, you can earn 50,000 points after spending $1,000 within the first three months of account opening. Cardholders also have access to the following benefits:

  • 6,000 bonus points to celebrate each account anniversary.
  • Two EarlyBird check-ins per year.
  • 1,500 tier qualifying points toward A-List and A-List Preferred status for every $10,000 you spend, with no limit as to how many you can earn.
  • 25% back for in-flight purchases.
  • No foreign transaction fees when you use the card abroad.
  • Southwest Airlines perks such as two free checked bags per person, no change fees and Rapid Rewards points that never expire.

You’ll earn 3X points per dollar for purchases made with Southwest Airlines; 2X points per dollar spent through Rapid Rewards car and hotel partners and 1X points per dollar for all other purchases. Cardholders can also earn 2X points per dollar on transit, including ride-share services and commuting, as well as select streaming, phone, internet and cable services.Best of all, the points you earn by using the Southwest Premier Credit Card count toward the Companion Pass®, which allows your chosen friend or family member to fly with you for free for up to a year (not counting taxes and fees from $5.60 each way).If you’re deciding between the two cards, consider which airline you tend to fly with the most. If you travel primarily within the U.S. and aren’t looking for premium cabin flights, the Southwest Premier Credit Card is likely a solid fit. If, on the other hand, you prefer to have a variety of carriers to redeem your rewards with, as well as the opportunity to redeem points toward business or first class flights, the Aeroplan Credit Card would be the better option.Bottom lineEditorial Note: Opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Select editorial staff’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any third party. .

7 Credit Cards With Airport Lounge and Expedited Security Access

7 Credit Cards With Airport Lounge and Expedited Security Access

Select’s editorial team works independently to review financial products and write articles we think our readers will find useful. We earn a commission from affiliate partners on many offers, but not all offers on Select are from affiliate partners.Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.It’s been a rough year for domestic and international travelers. Marred by issues related to understaffing, many airlines have found themselves in a precarious position — in this case, not having enough planes and crew members to accommodate so many travelers — leading to lots and lots of flights cancellations.So far this year, 88,161 flights have been canceled. For reference, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, from 2013 to 2021 — with the exception of 2020 — the number of flight cancellations never exceeded 80,000. At this rate, that number could end up reaching the record 263,941 number of flights that were canceled in 2020 as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.Needless to say, it’s been a very stressful time for those who have had to fly. And as demand for travel remains strong, it’s predicted that this will be a long-standing issue.Thankfully, there are a few ways to make your next trip to the airport a little bit easier, especially if you happen to have the right credit card.Whether you’re a frequent flyer or you simply want to make your upcoming flight less of a headache, these six credit cards are worth considering, as they each include complimentary lounge access and statement credits toward expedited airport security to make your next travel experience less stressful.Subscribe to the Select Newsletter!Our best selections in your inbox. Shopping recommendations that help upgrade your life, delivered weekly. Sign-up here.Best credit cards for lounge access and expedited securityStatement credits for expedited airport securityBefore you hit the airport lounge, you’ll need to get through a potentially long security line. While wait times are completely out of your control, there are a few expedited security clearance programs you can enroll in to hopefully shorten your time in line.

  • TSA PreCheck®: Issued by the Transportation Security Administration, this is the cheapest option if you want to get through security lines at U.S. airports faster. $85 gets you five years of membership.
  • Global Entry: Issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, I find Global Entry to be the most sensible option for most travelers, especially as it comes with all the same TSA PreCheck benefits built in. With Global Entry, you can also clear customs much quicker when arriving back to the U.S.. It costs $100 for five years of membership.
  • CLEAR: As its own standalone product, CLEAR provides a quicker clearance through security thanks to technology. By simply scanning your boarding pass and either using your eyes or fingerprints as your method of personal identification, you will be escorted to the front of the general security line, or to the front of the TSA PreCheck line if you’re also enrolled in the program. CLEAR membership costs $189 per year.

With each of the credit cards mentioned below, you can enroll in one or more of these expedited security programs, then receive statement credits to cover your membership with either TSA PreCheck®, Global Entry, CLEAR or a combination of them, depending on the card.Using credit cards to score airport lounge accessAirport lounges aren’t only for travelers who fly in business or first class. There are many travel rewards credit cards offering airport lounge access just for being a cardmember.Lounges provide a number of benefits to travelers, and they’re especially worthwhile for those who hope to avoid large crowds in the airport terminal while waiting to board their flight. Many lounges also offer complimentary food and beverages to their guests, so visiting one is an easy way to save money instead of having to purchase expensive airport food. Some even offer unique amenities like cycling rooms, showers and complimentary massages.Another good thing is nearly all major airports have at least one lounge, if not more. Throughout my own travels, I’ve found airport lounges to be an excellent way to escape noisy and crowded airport terminals.Without further ado, here’s a look at six credit cards that include airport lounge access as well as statement credits toward membership with the aforementioned expedited security programs.The Platinum Card® from American ExpressThe Platinum Card® from American ExpressOn the American Express secure site

  • RewardsEarn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year, 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel, 1X points on all other eligible purchases
  • Welcome bonusEarn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $6,000 within 6 months of card membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit Needed

With The Platinum Card® from American Express, cardmembers and two guests can enjoy access to more than 1,300 Priority Pass lounges across 148 countries, as well as American Express Centurion℠ lounges in the U.S. and abroad, Delta Sky Club® lounges, Escape Lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges and Air Space lounges. It’s worth noting that in order to enter a Delta Sky Club® lounge, you must be flying with Delta or one of its airline partners. For more information, visit the American Express Global Lounge Collection℠ website.As for expedited security, cardholders can receive up to $189 each year in statement credits by using The Platinum Card from American Express to pay for their CLEAR annual membership, as well as an up to $100 fee credit for Global Entry or TSAPreCheck. The card also comes with an up to $200 annual airline fee credit that you can use toward incidentals like checked baggage fees, seat selection fees, change fees and more.Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express CardDelta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express CardOn the American Express secure site

  • RewardsEarn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
  • Welcome bonusEarn 100,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new card in your first 3 months. Offer ends 8/3/2022.
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fees
  • Credit needed

The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is a solid choice for those seeking lounge access, especially if you fly with Delta Airlines regularly. You’ll receive access to American Express Centurion℠ lounges when you book Delta flights with your Reserve card, as well as entry to Delta Sky Club® lounges and two one-time guest passes each year if you’re traveling with friends or family members.The card also provides a statement credit of up to $100 every four years to cover Global Entry enrollment or a credit of up to $85 every 4.5 years for those wishing to enroll in TSA PreCheck®. Note that if you’re approved for Global Entry, you’ll receive instant access to TSA PreCheck® perks.Other air travel-related perks include a first checked bag free, priority boarding and complimentary seat upgrades when you fly Delta.Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit CardThe Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is another great card option for travelers looking to escape the airport terminal. When you have the card, you’ll have access to Capital One Lounges — one location in Dallas (DFW) is currently open, while two more are expected to open later this year in Denver (DEN) and Washington, D.C. (IAD)— as well as the extensive network of Priority Pass and Plaza Premium lounges worldwide. When visiting any of those lounges, you’ll also receive two complimentary guest passes per visit (extra guests at Capital One Lounges will cost $45 each).The card also provides a statement credit of up to $100 every four years when you use it to pay for your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® membership.Capital One Ventures Rewards Credit CardThe Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card allows two complimentary lounge visits each year, either to Capital One Lounges or more than 100 additional lounges via its Plaza Premium Lounge and Priority Pass partners, making it a great option for those who aren’t exactly frequent flyers.Cardmembers can also receive a statement credit of up to $100 every four years by using the card to enroll in Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®.United Club℠ Infinite CardUnited Club℠ Infinite Card

  • Rewards4 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases, 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel and dining (including eligible delivery services) and 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Welcome bonusEarn 100,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fees
  • Credit needed

Those who fly with United Airlines will enjoy complimentary United Club membership, worth a value of $650 per year, as a perk of having the United Club℠ Infinite Card. This gives you and up to two guests access to United Club and affiliated Star Alliance lounges worldwide when traveling with the airline or one of its partners. or a partner airline.The card also provides a statement credit of up to $100 every four years to cover your membership with Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS, an expedited security program for those traveling between the U.S. and Canada.Other perks include complimentary first and second checked bags when you fly with United, 25% back on in-flight purchases and priority check-in, boarding and baggage handling.Chase Sapphire Reserve®Chase Sapphire Reserve®

  • RewardsEarn 5X total points on air travel and 10X total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3X points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases plus, 10X points on Lyft rides through March 2025
  • Welcome bonusEarn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit needed

Chase Sapphire Reserve® cardholders will have access to more than 1,300 airport lounges across 148 countries once they enroll for free through Priority Pass. You can bring up to two guests for free.The Chase Sapphire Reserve also provides a statement credit of up to $100 every four years to reimburse you for your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® enrollment fee.Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite MastercardCiti® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®Information about the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® has been collected independently by Select and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of the card prior to publication.

  • Rewards2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 on eligible American Airlines purchases.  1 AAdvantage® mile per $1 spent on other purchases. 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases.
  • Welcome bonusEarn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fees
  • Credit needed

The Citi / AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard is ideal for American Airlines flyers as it comes with a full Admirals Club membership, worth a value of $650 per year. You’re allowed to bring up to two guests for free but you can add up to ten authorized users to the card for free and they each get their own memberships as well.The card also provides a statement credit of up to $100 every five years to cover your membership with Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®.When flying American Airlines, you’ll also enjoy a first checked bag free, priority check-in, early boarding and 25% savings on inflight food and beverage purchases.Bottom lineAmericans are eager to get back on the road after the pandemic-related restrictions, but it’s not coming without several issues. However, with one of these cards listed above, you can not only earn a solid welcome bonus to earn rewards for traveling — but also avoid the pains of long security lines and noisy airports with the benefits of each card above.Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance, tech and tools, wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.For rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express, click here.For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, click here.Information about the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by Select and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of the card prior to publication.Editorial Note: Opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Select editorial staff’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any third party. .

Here’s how you can make your flying experience easier this summer

Here’s how you can make your flying experience easier this summer

Select’s editorial team works independently to review financial products and write articles we think our readers will find useful. We earn a commission from affiliate partners on many offers, but not all offers on Select are from affiliate partners.There are few industries like travel that have roared back with as much consumer demand after the pandemic-related lockdowns.Airlines predicted it would take years for consumers to fly again at pre-pandemic levels. But as vaccination efforts persisted and restrictions were lifted, Americans began to travel again. However, the airline industry has not been able to keep up with the public’s appetite for flying, resulting in major flight delays and cancellations throughout the U.S..So before you head to the airport for your next flight, keep in mind the following tips to give yourself the best chance of smooth travel.Subscribe to the Select Newsletter!Our best selections in your inbox. Shopping recommendations that help upgrade your life, delivered weekly. Sign-up here.Airports and airlines are equally strugglingThe travel experience right now, as cleverly put by The Atlantic, is suffering from ‘nothing works syndrome.’ And much of this has to do with one core issue: a lack of staffing. But with one large issue comes several smaller problems like weather, air traffic control issues and a reduced amount of available aircraft, all which contribute to an overall system meltdown.Here’s an idea of what travel demand and delays look like right now:On June 26, TSA reported it counted nearly 2.5 million people through its checkpoints. It was the highest number since Feb. 11, 2020 — which was right before Covid-19 shut down the world.Between 2013-2019, the total number of flight cancellations never exceeded 70,000 in an entire year. There have already been over 76,000 so far in 2022, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, and we’re not even halfway through the year.Unfortunately, if you need to fly, there isn’t much you can do to avoid the larger issues. But there are several things you can do to make your experience an easier one.How to keep your travels smooth amid staffing shortages1. Avoid layovers when booking, and book directIf you can avoid layovers, it may benefit you for a simple reason: the fewer flights you take, the chance for issues to arise becomes smaller.Additionally, it may be tempting to book your next flight with a third-party travel service (i.e. Expedia or Priceline) to save a few dollars as airfare prices have skyrocketed. However, if you run into delays or cancellations, the airline may not be able to assist you directly if you booked through a third-party — you’ll first have to deal with the travel booking service’s customer service line to remedy your issues.2. Show up early, and avoid checking your bagIt’s the most cliché suggestion out there, but arriving early can help you avoid the panic of missing your flight and disrupting your travels. Long lines to check a bag or to get through security could cause you to accidentally miss your flight. And as airlines are packing their planes, missing your flight could leave you with few options to rebook as seat inventory remains low.Also, you may consider packing a bit less and bringing your bag onboard with you. One of the areas airlines are struggling to hire and keep staffed is bag handlers. So not only is your bag at risk of being lost or damaged, but it could also be a while until you receive your bag at your final destination. And if you’re strapped for time, the time it takes to check your luggage could lead you to miss your flight.And Sandra McLemore, president of Travel Marketing & Media, strongly recommends using online check-in. “Just one minute after check-in closes, your seat will go to someone on a waitlist. And you won’t get a credit, let alone a refund,” she tells Select.3. Enroll in an expedited security programExpedited security perks have arguably never been more valuable. Programs like TSA PreCheck, Global Entry and CLEAR can save flyers a significant amount of time. And the best part is that many travel credit cards offer perks to cover the application costs.I currently have Global Entry (which includes membership to TSA PreCheck), and paid with my IHG® Rewards Premier Credit Card, which gives me a $100 statement credit to cover the Global Entry or TSA precheck application cost. Over the last five years I’ve flown close to 100 flights, and expeditated security has saved me anywhere from a few minutes to sometimes over an hour each trip. And since Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck, I get expedited security clearance anywhere in the U.S. and can clear customs quickly when returning to the U.S. after a trip abroad.There are several cards that include credits for expedited security programs, including the Bank of America® Premium Rewards credit card and the Chase Sapphire Reserve®. But if you’re not interested in a rewards card, you can simply pay online to enroll in one of the programs.Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

  • RewardsEarn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all other purchases.
  • Welcome bonusReceive 50,000 bonus points — a $500 value — after you make at least $3,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR15.99% to 22.99% variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
  • Balance transfer feeEither $10 or 3% of the amount of each transaction, whichever is greater
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit needed

Information about the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card has been collected independently by Select and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of the card prior to publication.Chase Sapphire Reserve®

  • RewardsEarn 5X total points on air travel and 10X total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3X points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases plus, 10X points on Lyft rides through March 2025
  • Welcome bonusEarn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR17.74% to 24.74% variable
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit needed

4. Use lounges rather than regular airport food optionsAnother area that has dramatically suffered is airport dining. Whether it’s a lack of staffing, supply chain issues or outrageous pricing, airport dining has become more difficult since the onset of the pandemic.For example, when I flew through the Detroit airport a few months ago, the Starbucks franchise was completely closed as they didn’t have workers. And when I flew through San Diego, its Starbucks location was charging an extra 2% fee for “employee retention.” For the restaurants that may be available, you could find yourself waiting some time to be served.To save both money and time, you may consider visiting an airport lounge. They typically have free food and drinks available, and you can receive access simply by having one of many different travel credit cards.For example, I’m an authorized user on the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, which gives me access to Priority Pass lounges around the world. The Platinum Card® from American Express and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express also provide widespread airport lounge access, including Priority Pass membership and access to Delta SkyClubs and Amex Centurion lounges. Terms apply.However, keep in mind that lounges have become busier as a plethora of credit cards have started to award lounge access.The Platinum Card® from American ExpressOn the American Express secure site

  • RewardsEarn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year, 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel, 1X points on all other eligible purchases
  • Welcome bonusEarn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $6,000 within 6 months of card membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
  • Annual fee
  • Intro APR
  • Regular APR
  • Balance transfer fee
  • Foreign transaction fee
  • Credit Needed

5. Be prepared for the worst-case scenarioYou can take as many precautions as you’d like, but sometimes the cards won’t fall in your favor.But when things go awry, the first thing to do is not panic. It’s happening to many other travelers, and there are solutions available. But to protect yourself against this, you may consider doing the following:

  • Give yourself extra time. For example, you may consider flying to your destination earlier than you need so if there’s a delay, you have some wiggle room.
  • Begin looking for alternative solutions immediately. As soon as you hear of a delay or potential cancellation, it’s wise to find solutions like a hotel room or even another flight. Because it will be you and everyone else on your flight trying to find solutions all at once as well.
  • Book travel with a credit card that has travel insurance. If you experience a delay or even a cancellation, some of the costs, unfortunately, will fall on you as the traveler. That can include things like food or a hotel (depending on the airline and circumstances of the delay and/or cancellation). However, credit card travel insurance will help cover the costs you may incur during a delay or cancellation — just make sure you pay for your travel with your travel credit card so the insurance goes into effect. When my flight was canceled last Christmas in San Diego, the coverage from my Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card kicked in and covered the incidental costs.

Bottom lineTraveling is supposed to be a fun and enjoyable experience, but for the foreseeable future, it’s more likely going to be a headache to get from ‘A to B’. So if you’re traveling anytime in the near future, implementing these tips and tricks can ease the pains of post-pandemic travel.Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance, tech and tools, wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.For rates and fees of the Platinum Card® from American Express, click here.Information about the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by Select and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of the card prior to publication.Editorial Note: Opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Select editorial staff’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any third party. .