United Credit Card Review: Is It Worth It? | Reddit Edition

Hey everyone! Are you looking for an honest, no-nonsense review of the United credit card? Well, you've come to the right place! Forget the fancy marketing spiel; we're diving deep into what real users are saying about this card, straight from the Reddit trenches. We’ll break down the perks, the pitfalls, and everything in between, so you can make an informed decision. Is the United credit card truly worth it for you, or are there better options out there? Let’s find out!

Digging Into the United Credit Card Perks

So, what's the buzz about the United credit card? The main draw, as you might guess, is its connection to United Airlines. For frequent flyers, this can be a game-changer, offering a range of benefits designed to make your travel experience smoother and more rewarding. Let's break down the key perks that often get mentioned on Reddit:

• MileagePlus Miles: This is the core of the card's appeal. You earn MileagePlus miles on every purchase, which can then be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and other travel-related expenses. The earning rate varies depending on the specific United card you have (more on that later), but generally, you'll get a certain number of miles per dollar spent on United purchases and a lower rate on everything else. Reddit users frequently discuss strategies for maximizing mile accumulation, such as using the card for all purchases, even small ones, to rack up those miles quickly. Many also highlight the value of bonus categories, such as restaurants or gas stations, where you can earn even more miles per dollar.
• Free Checked Bags: One of the most consistently praised benefits is the free checked bag perk. This can save you a significant amount of money, especially if you travel frequently with checked luggage. Most United credit cards offer this benefit to the cardholder and often to a companion traveling on the same reservation. Reddit users often share stories of how much they've saved on baggage fees, making this a major selling point for the card. However, it's crucial to read the fine print and understand the specific requirements for claiming this benefit, such as ensuring that you've purchased your ticket with the card and that your MileagePlus number is linked to the reservation.
• Priority Boarding: Nobody likes waiting in long lines to board a plane. With many United credit cards, you get priority boarding, which allows you to board earlier and snag a better seat (or at least ensure you have overhead bin space for your carry-on). Reddit users appreciate this perk for the convenience and time-saving aspect. Some also note that it can be particularly valuable during peak travel times when flights are crowded.
• Lounge Access: Certain higher-tier United credit cards offer United Club lounge access, providing a comfortable and convenient space to relax before or between flights. These lounges typically offer complimentary food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating. Reddit users who have access to these lounges rave about the benefits, especially during long layovers or when dealing with flight delays. Access rules can vary, so it's important to understand the specific terms and conditions associated with your card.
• Purchase Protection and Travel Insurance: Many United credit cards come with built-in purchase protection and travel insurance benefits, offering peace of mind when you're on the go. Purchase protection can cover you in case of theft or damage to items purchased with the card, while travel insurance can provide coverage for trip cancellations, delays, lost luggage, and other unexpected events. Reddit users often share stories of how these benefits have saved them money and hassle in various situations. However, it's crucial to understand the specific coverage limits and exclusions before relying on these benefits.

These are just some of the core benefits offered by United credit cards. The specific perks and features can vary depending on the card you choose, so it's essential to compare different options and select the one that best aligns with your travel habits and spending patterns.

The Reddit Reality Check: Potential Drawbacks

Okay, so the perks sound great, right? But let's not get carried away just yet. Reddit is also full of users who share their less-than-stellar experiences with the United credit card. Here’s a dose of reality:

• Annual Fees: Many United credit cards come with annual fees, which can range from moderate to quite high, depending on the card. This is a major point of contention on Reddit, with users debating whether the benefits outweigh the cost. Some argue that if you don't fly frequently or take full advantage of the perks, the annual fee simply isn't worth it. Others contend that the free checked bags and other benefits more than offset the fee, especially for frequent travelers. Ultimately, the decision depends on your individual travel patterns and spending habits. It's crucial to carefully assess whether you'll actually use the benefits enough to justify the annual fee.
• Limited Redemption Options: While MileagePlus miles can be valuable, they are primarily tied to United Airlines and its partners. This means you may have fewer redemption options compared to more flexible travel rewards programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards or American Express Membership Rewards. Reddit users sometimes complain about the difficulty of finding award flights, especially during peak seasons or on popular routes. They also note that the value of miles can fluctuate depending on the specific flight and redemption option. If you prefer to have a wider range of redemption options, such as hotels, rental cars, or cash back, a more flexible travel rewards card might be a better choice.
• High APR: Like most credit cards, United credit cards typically have high APRs (Annual Percentage Rates). This means that if you carry a balance on your card, you'll end up paying a significant amount of interest. Reddit users strongly advise against carrying a balance on any credit card, including United credit cards, as the interest charges can quickly erode the value of any rewards you earn. If you tend to carry a balance, you might want to consider a card with a lower APR, even if it doesn't offer as many travel rewards.
• Customer Service Issues: Customer service is always a hot topic on Reddit, and United credit card holders are no exception. Some users report positive experiences with customer service representatives, while others describe frustrating encounters with long wait times, unhelpful agents, and difficulty resolving issues. Customer service experiences can vary widely, so it's important to keep this in mind when considering the card. If customer service is a top priority for you, you might want to research the card issuer's reputation and read reviews from other users.
• Devaluation of Miles: Airlines frequently devalue their miles, meaning that the number of miles required to redeem for a particular flight can increase over time. This is a common concern among Reddit users who participate in travel rewards programs. While devaluation is a risk with any airline loyalty program, it's important to be aware of it and to plan your redemptions accordingly. Some users recommend redeeming miles as soon as you have enough for a desired flight, rather than hoarding them for a future trip. Others suggest diversifying your rewards portfolio by earning points or miles with multiple programs.

These are some of the potential downsides to consider before applying for a United credit card. It's important to weigh these drawbacks against the potential benefits and to determine whether the card is a good fit for your individual needs and circumstances.

Which United Card is Right for You?

Okay, so you're still interested? Great! But here's the thing: there isn't just ONE United credit card. There are several, each with its own set of features, fees, and benefits. Here’s a quick rundown of some popular options to help you navigate the choices:

• United Gateway Card: This is often considered the entry-level option. It typically has no annual fee, making it a good choice for those who are new to airline credit cards or who don't want to pay an annual fee. However, the rewards and benefits are more limited compared to the other cards. It's a good way to dip your toes into the United ecosystem without committing to a high annual fee.
• United Explorer Card: This is a mid-tier option that strikes a balance between benefits and fees. It typically has an annual fee that is waived for the first year and offers perks like free checked bags, priority boarding, and two United Club passes each year. This is a popular choice among frequent travelers who want a good range of benefits without paying a premium annual fee.
• United Quest Card: This card offers a higher level of benefits, including a higher earning rate on United purchases, a $125 annual United purchase credit, and up to 5,000 miles back (as statement credits) each year when you take United or United Express flights and redeem miles for award flights. It also has a higher annual fee than the Explorer card.
• United Club Infinite Card: This is the premium option, offering the most comprehensive set of benefits, including United Club membership, higher earning rates, and enhanced travel insurance coverage. However, it also comes with the highest annual fee. This card is best suited for very frequent travelers who can take full advantage of the United Club access and other premium benefits.

Pro Tip: Always compare the current sign-up bonuses! These can be a huge boost to your mile balance and can often offset the annual fee for the first year or more. Reddit users are constantly sharing information about the latest and greatest sign-up bonus offers, so be sure to do your research before applying.

Reddit's Verdict: Is the United Credit Card Worth It?

So, after all that, what’s the final word from the Reddit community? Well, it’s a mixed bag, as you might expect. The general consensus is that the United credit card can be a valuable asset for frequent United flyers who can take full advantage of the benefits. The free checked bags and priority boarding are consistently cited as major perks, and the MileagePlus miles can be a great way to earn free flights.

However, it's not a slam dunk for everyone. If you don't fly United often, or if you prefer more flexible travel rewards programs, you might be better off with a different card. The annual fees can be a significant drawback, and the limited redemption options can be frustrating for some users.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to get a United credit card depends on your individual travel habits and spending patterns. Do your research, compare your options, and read the fine print before you apply. And don't forget to check out what other Reddit users are saying – their experiences can provide valuable insights to help you make an informed decision. Happy travels!