❗ *CORRECTION:* You can bring 2 adult guests OR 1 adult + dependent children under 21 years of age to the United Club. 🤑Get up to 15 Free Stocks from moomoo: markscreditcards.com/moomoo 💳👉VIEW CREDIT CARD OFFERS! markscreditcards.com/offers 🛍RAKUTEN - Earn Cash Back! markscreditcards.com/rakuten ⬆(More links in Description below video!)
I applied for this card a month or so ago and am only $500 bucks away from 90k welcome offer. Being overseas in Japan/Asia, Star Alliance is king so this card was a no brainer as I fly ANA 90% of the time which equates to PQF/PQPs adding up in my United account. I may/may not make United Gold this year, will see. Excellent video.
I got 3.9 cents per mile on a flight to germany recently with my united explorer. Made me reconcider cancelling it. United's loyalty program is actually pretty good.
Dang. I didn't realize how good this CC was. Those Premier Access benefits are unreal for just having a CC. May have to pick this up in the near future for my occasional United flights. Thanks for the info + video!
Awesome breakdown and step by step explanation of each benefit. I upgraded recently to United Quest card from Explorer and I love the card. Will see if I make the jump to Infinite card or not. For now I am keeping my Quest card since with all benefits it practically pays for itself ($125 cash back in united purchase per year, 10k anniversary miles credit per year plus 2 free check bags)
Great video. I appreciate your objective perspective on this card. I do have the card for many years now and your right. For me it works great being at a UA hub. Thanks for reminding me why I have the card and continue to be one of my go to when traveling. Also, just subscribed, I appreciate the content.
I mulled over this card for a while, but the biggest thing that pushed me off of this card and into the Quest card was that I often travel with my wife and kids, and not being able to bring both of them into the lounge makes it a really limited benefit for me. Otherwise, I definitely would have gone with this card.
Do we have to register our Infinite card on our National Club account to have it upgraded to Emerald Executive status? Also, does anyone know about how long it takes to show up? I'm a new Infinite card member and will be traveling soon. I already have a car reserved with National so I'm curious.
Great video. I live by united hub and united got a whole terminal by itself. There's no other lounges besides united lounges which priority pass is not accepted. I fly united one or twice a year. Mostly once cause i love jetblue n AA. When i get under 5/24, i ll def get united explorer because of 2 united club passes per year plus the free checked bag
Applying this weekend. I am just relaxing that I could have already gotten to Platinum this year on United......I used to have the United Club card, but was laid off and never looked at it again. Been working and flying a bit to Asia now it really would have paid for itself. I learned from someone else that OHG has the best "buy" points of anyone in which is especially good in Asia. Everyone should know that once you have Gold status on United you also have free access to Lufthansa and Singapore Airline lounges in this respective countries and if I am not mistaken lounge access in other United Partner lounges outside of the US.. Cannot believe I did nto listen to your vlog earlier.
Awesome benefits. I’m stuck in the Chase 5/24 rule holding pattern for about 18 more months. But will definitely add this card to my wish list. Thanks for the review, Mark!
Thank you! Remember my comments from a few days ago in your other video? Card does matter. I mentioned the quest because it was 1 step above the explorer used in that video. The infinite card makes the point even easier. Don't forget, one can way surpass domestic economy rates with international and get 4 cents or more per mile vs 1.2 along with everything else. Check it out and thanks again for getting into the details on this one!! 👊
For sure! ✈️ The card definitely matters. In reference to the other comment on the "Are Airline Credit Cards Worth It?" video, I still recommend to 90%+ of people that they earn transferrable bank currencies like the ones from Chase, Amex, Citi, Capital One, etc. over air miles with 1 specific carrier.
@@MarkReese Now this makes more sense. Maybe just didn't want to put this comment in that other video? When you factor in the free checked in luggage with these ual cards vs spending with the other bank cards, the decision is even easier. 👍👍👍
@@theeverydailyshow - I replied to your other comment, and the video itself also reaches the same conclusion: airline cards can be worth it for perks, but those other bank-issued credit cards tend to be better for spending.
You should make a video saying what you think the best card is for each major category. Like travel, airlines, hotels, gas, grocery, everyday spend, car rental, business etc etc
Hey Mark as always great content I was looking at this card and the United Explorer and for me the United Explorer would be good for me I don't have it yet but I am going for it, I still get into the United Club (2 passes per year) with the Explorer and still 1 checked bag. Keep the content coming
As we discussed on one to one, the only super it needs is a companion type ticket like the Delta Reserve, I am getting the business version after I get under 5/24.
I had the Explorer for a long time, but decided to downgrade it to the Gateway recently. If I ever get targeted for an upgrade to the Club Infinite though, I’d probably do it!! Thanks for the info Mark!
Just watched this , if you had to pick one to keep one sapphire's reserve or this united club ? IMO if chase does do AF hike on the reserve card to something like $695 but toss in club access , that would be a killer cover all bases setup :)
Easy decision: Sapphire Reserve. Reason? I almost never fly United, don't use United Clubs, and prefer points that can be used for a lot more opportunities beyond just flights with United + its partners. However, a frequent United flyer who uses United Clubs might have the opposite answer. There isn't 1 right answer that universally applies to everyone. It depends on what you want / what you value having.
I have United Explorer. Got it a year ago, the main reason is to get 25% more miles with MPX and get access to special award availability on United. Didn't use passes since I didn't fly United last year. Now the AF will arrive soon, and I will probably downgrade it to Gateway. I'm thinking about getting AA Executive though, since I'm getting CitiGold discount on it, and it gives access to Admirals club to all (free) AUs, also free bags, without buying tickets with a card. Much better, IMHO.
It doesn't matter what your seat number is. With the upgraded boarding benefit, you'll be bumped up to the earlier group (currently Group 2) 👍 As long as you include your MileagePlus # on your reservation, then your Premier Access benefits (incl. priority boarding) should be active and you should see Group 2 on your boarding pass.
One deal breaker for me for now is the fact if I buy a POA-GRU-EWR ticket the Azul part POA-GRU doesn't include those 2 free bags which they should consider including all domestic portions for an International United Flight. However in about 2 years I'm going to start traveling more and that *2 2nd bag benefit really adds up. $400 dollars one round trip.
Hey mark, Not sure if you heard but the United club card got redesigned even though it’s not advertised on chases site The card looks different and most importantly a lot heavier and more resistant to bending. It feels more like the CSR
Just found your channel and love it. One small correction. United club members get two adult guests (so member +2), or member +1 other adult + dependent children. My other favorite card benefit is you get full United Club membership privileges, which gives you star alliance lounge access when you present your membership card (not club credit card) at the front desk of a star alliance carrier’s lounge & are flying any star alliance carrier same day. This is handy at a United hub like Dulles if you have time to stop in the Lufthansa or Turkish lounge there
Fantastic additions, thanks! Yes now that I'm rereading the United Club guest policy, I see I misunderstood it originally. I'll make the correction via pinned comment 💯✈️
@@mitchellrodriguez1794 from my experience when my dad and I travel together it's just one guest in Star Alliance partner airlines. Any extra guests (to my knowledge) is only for domestic United clubs
IMO, any American Airline credit cards are the best to carry out special with Qatar airway, Jordanian royal, and British Airways, so you covering the world with constant value for one way and round trip plus easy to gain 2 business cards with plus 165k
Really considering this card. I’m just curious if it will pair well with my chase trifecta cards. I travel via United 3-5 times a year and Dulles is my main airport so me and my wife can have really elite status when traveling. I just need someone to help me pull the trigger on it lol
Good luck if you decide to go for it! It definitely pairs well with Chase cards (which are better for earning rewards). The United Club card can then be best utilized for the benefits.
@@MarkReese Stellar breakdown! I think I’m going to go for it! The premier status, club passes, “free” bags in itself are worth it, and 80k points? That far outweighs $525 fee. Also fly to Houston a lot so that is a lot of United clubs I’ll be hitting up! Thank for the link to that video!
I have 3100 dollars in the United travel bank thanks to AMEX. Looking to get a United card and then using the travel bank cash and points for a nice trip
Great Video Mark, I have united quest card and it has same bags policy. My question was if I book flight using miles, I wont be eligible for free bag ? If thats the case do you think using miles and some portion of ticket on credit card would allow free bag ? Thanks
Hi Fayaz - I looked deeper into the terms; here's what they say, _"A primary Cardmember is eligible to receive applicable standard checked bag(s) free when they use their miles to book award travel on United-operated flights, as long as they pay for their award ticket taxes and service charges with their qualifying card and include their MileagePlus account number in their reservation."_
I miss the days before credit cards gave you access to the lounges. Back then it was less crowded, more peaceful, plenty of seats, no lines to get in, etc. Only way to get in was status with the airline and/or if you were flying business/first class that day. Nowadays all I hear and see are people complaining about the crowds in lounges. Well, that’s what happens when you let every Dick, Jane, and Bob in who has a credit card. There’s my rant for the day. Good card. Good review.
I need your opinion. I am looking to add another Chase card (United) while I am under 5/24. I am not in United Hub but travel with United once or twice a year. I already have Amex Plat so lounge access is not a big priority for me. Would you recommend United Infinite or Quest card? I know United Quest has less sign up bonus but gives $125 credits and upto 10K miles rebate upon award booking from 2nd year so I feel more benefits in the long term whereas Infinite card just gives larger welcome bonus one time. I am in the military so AF is not a concern and plan to keep the card. Once I get one United card, I plan to open cards from different banks, so I will be over 5/24 for a while.
For the welcome offer? Sure. For anything else? No. Not being at a hub and only flying 1-2 times per year is not the right formula to get either card & keep them long term.
As a Chase fanboy, I love to see the United line of cards getting some love! This is definitely a really solid card. I've always hesitated to pledge my loyalty to one airline in particular, but the value this card provides definitely makes it tempting! Great breakdown as always Mark!
Chase fanboy here as well. How does this card complement with the trifecta? I enjoy booking my flights with my sapphire at 1.25 per point. I feel it might be obsolete if I get this. Any tips?
@@masonroberts1 I also have this with the reserve trifecta and marriott boundless card. United has the best international routes, which is why I try and fly them a good amount. I have silver status with United, and the card is still worth it. Am I getting the $525 annual fee worth out of it, probably not, but is my life a whole lot easier when flying United, yes. I'm thinking of downgrading my reserve to the preferred, and upgrading the boundless to the Ritz Carlton card (counter-acts losing the Priority pass from the reserve) though.
@@masonroberts1 If you aren't using your CSP to transfer out to travel partners like United (which I would recommend that you should) then this card would technically not benefit you as much. However, if you're always traveling with United and would use all the perks and benefits that come on this card it could be really beneficial no matter your current setup and how you've been using your Chase points. Not to mention, if you get the SUB on it and then you do take advantage of transferring Chase points to your United account, you could accumulate a TON of United miles and redeem them for a lot of value.. just something to consider!
@@SpencerJohnsonOfficial I usually redeem my chase points via the portal. I get 1.25 per point with the sapphire preferred and 5x travel. However with the United card I’d be willing to transfer to my United account for that 1.4 per one mile with this card. I think the benefits alone make it worth it.
Quick Citi question: I’ve had the Citi Double Cash for 6 years and I want to maximize its potential by getting the Citi Premier for transfer partner access. However, I was wondering if you think I should wait to see if Citi releases the rumored Citi Strata Premier & Elite cards this year
The explorer has two passes. Can you use one for a guest? Can you use one and purchase access for guest? Sorry don't know how it works. We live west of Chicago and it's short on lounges. Wondering if my #2 could get a United card for us. More interested in mid level than this.
I can't guarantee this 100% as I haven't done it recently, but you should be able to use one of the United Club One-Time Passes for a guest; I've done it myself in years prior. Per the terms, you & your guest will have to present a same-day boarding pass for a United / Star Alliance / contracted partner operated flight. I don't see any language saying that the name on the boarding pass needs to match the name on the cardholder account from which the pass was issued. Here's a link to read more: www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/airport/united-club-and-lounges/access.html You / your guest can also purchase One-Time Passes directly in the United app.
Thank you for the great video. A few snarky points from me - biggest benefit is the ego rush from using a metal credit card that everyone knows cost an arm & a leg. Luggage related benefits are worthless. Everyone has carry-on these days. The elite stuff is fine. On 2nd thought, just get me there. Conclusion - comes down to the bling of the metal + the bragging rights that come with the outrageous fee. Seriously, I'm getting the card. I encourage anyone with a couple of extra bucks to do the same
Many people have the "just get me there" perspective on travel, which is totally fine. For them, all these "elite cards" should usually be avoided because the benefits would't add meaningful value.
Where do you sit with the Delta Reserve? I looked at UA cards and settled on DL because of the lounge access and first class companion ticket. I may have gotten this card if it included a companion ticket.
I've experienced tsa/clear precheck lines but not priority security lines, I'm having trouble understanding how priority security works, I don't think I've seen a United priority security line before. Maybe it's something not common state side?
Not all airports have it. Here's a link to more info from United: www.united.com/en/us/fly/travel/trip-planning/premier-access.html Here's a picture of what it may look like, when available. It might say, 'Premier Access...' www.uponarriving.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/United-Premier-Access.jpg
Sure. I almost never view airlines cards as worth having if the goal is only to earn miles from spending. They make a lot more sense for benefits / perks (i.e. not for spending).
For a highly frequent traveler flying both Delta + United who values lounge access, then sure. They'd be used for lounge access + spending towards elite status. For most people though, probably not.
@@MarkReese Do you think it would be a good combination to have the chase sapphire preferred and the United ClubSM Infinite Card ? I fly united pretty much 100% of the time
Great video thanks right now I use the united airlines explorer card the best buy card the city rewards plus card and the m life las vegas card from the bank of Omaha
Slightly off topic question: I'm interested in getting the chase sapphire preferred but I don't plan on traveling anytime soon, my idea is to just have it and save up the points for a decent vacation in a few years. I also have the freedom flex and unlimited so I'll have those points to transfer over too. So is that a decent strategy or would I be better of just paying the whole vacation out of pocket?
Sounds like a good strategy to add the Chase Sapphire Preferred for a future trip! ✈️ If you're not in any hurry, it could be worthwhile to wait longer to see if a higher welcome offer comes along.
No. It means you earn 4X miles per $1 in cash you spend on a United flight. Example: You spend $562 on a flight, charge it to the card, and earn 4X miles on that purchase. $562 x 4 = 2,248 miles earned. If you redeem miles for a flight, you don't earn anything in return.
You don't literally transfer them, but you can use them to book partner flights. For example, you might see a flight come up in the search results on United's website, but it may be operated by Lufthansa or another Star Alliance partner. You can still redeem your United miles when booking, though.
Already have the JetBlue and AA Citibank credit card so I'll pass not really interested. Plus never fly on united... I use JetBlue and AA plus Spirit for local travel ...virgin and British Airways for my trips to London , spirit and JetBlue for south America and JetBlue and AA for the Caribbean.....
Per the terms, the answer seems to be 'no.' Here's what they say... _"The primary Cardmember and companions traveling on the same reservation are eligible for Premier Access; _*_authorized users are only eligible if they are on the same reservation as the primary Cardmember."_*
Is it considered traveling on an award ticket if you pay for an upgrade with points and the flight with the card or pay in any manner part card part points?
@@MarkReese fast reply wow! Haha thanks. Probably going to grab the United Infinite card and pair it with the Venture X. Can’t really beat the $0 authorized user perks which will be fantastic for my wife and I. Love your channel thanks for great videos!
I personally hate United and I will not get their credit cards in the future. I have over 200k United miles but I don't seem to find much value with those miles. Their value is probably 50% less than AAdvantage miles or 25% less than Delta Skymiles. A roundtrip ticket is at the very least 25k miles for domestic and upwards of 40k for international. If I'm flexible, I can find the same with American for 12k domestic and 30k international. Another thing with United is that they will "punish" you with a middle seat unless you pay for what you want, even if your profile says your preferred seating is window or aisle, EVEN if the plane is half empty. With AA and Delta, they usually assign me an aisle seat for free when I check in for my flight. My plan is to burn those United miles and not do business with them anymore
Can you earn the 80,000 miles if you buy $5k dollars worth of miles from United Airlines and then also receive 4x Miles on those $5k netting another 20,000 miles. So at the end of the day I'd purchase 145,000 miles for just over $5k, I'd also receive 80,000 miles as a bonus and also receive roughly 20,000 miles from the 4x miles. Would that work? I'd receive 245,000 miles from the actions previously stated?
Probably not. Regardless, that purchase would very likely be a horrific value. 145K miles cost $5,075 right now. You'll also have to pay a $380.63 Tax Recovery Fee. Total = $5,455.63 So, the cost per mile... = ($5,455.63 ÷ 145,000) x 100 = 3.76¢ per mile United miles are worth, on average, 1.1¢ each. So, you'd have to have one of the best redemptions ever - likely on a Star Alliance partner for a long-haul, international flight - in order for that purchase to give you more value than you paid. Otherwise, you'd likely loose money (I'm talking thousands). Furthermore, buying points is processed via Points.com on the backend, so it's probably going to count as a 3rd-party transaction rather than a United transaction. Meaning you'd probably earn 1X miles on the purchase using a United credit card.
To anyone who knows… Do you need to purchase the United ticket with the club card in order to get United club access? Or can I buy a United ticket on another CC (aka another travel CC with better points multiplier) and just show the same day boarding pass and club membership number to get in?
Thanks for the info!! The only reason I brought it up was because I checked the chase website and there’s an asterisk near United Club Membership stating that these benefits are included when you use the card. So that was a little confusing for me. But I guess the club membership for this card can kind of be treated like a priority pass membership in a way?
@@VincentPascual - Access to the Star Alliance lounges requires presenting your United Club _membership card_ once you receive it in the mail & not the United Club _credit card,_ correct?
@@MarkReese I called the United Club customer service before deciding on a card and they said that once you are approved for the Chase Infinite card, Chase updates your United Mileage Plus Club account automatically and your United Membership card will be digital. Specifically, she said it'll show up on your United account so you can use the app rather than a physical card. Hope that hels.
No. Here's what the terms say, "The United Club membership card will be sent to the primary Cardmember 6 weeks after the account open date. Authorized users will not receive their own United Club membership and are only eligible for United Club access if they accompany the primary Cardmember and qualify as an eligible guest per the then-current United Club access policies."
@@MarkReese every time I fly it’s United since I’m always flying from ohare in chi it’s a good option. My only concern is that this card is more for people with a higher income at an older age but maybe im wrong that’s why I was asking. You think it’s more just about how often one flys?
@@westonmorgan2415 - Age doesn't matter & having a high income doesn't matter when it comes to an approval. It comes down to whether you get more value than it costs (and having an income that allows you to personally make sense of it) ✈
It does. I'm still hoping Mark does a Versus video of the AA executive card vs the United Club Infinite. I had made a comment about this on one of his previous videos for a request of the AA executive vs the United Club Infinite.
@@caribdude8151 - Lots of rumors (and an actual survey from Citi) about potential changes to the AA Executive. I may hold off on that comparison for now.
@@MarkReese Thanks for the info. Now I know why there wasn't a video lol. Btw in that AA Exec video u called the card the "American Airlines Black Card" kinda similar how this card in this video would be the United Infinite Black card u could say also similar to how the BoA PR Elite would be the Black card out of that. Black card meaning the most luxury and highest annual fee, all similar to how it kinda is named like the Amex Centurion Black card if all that makes sense if you know where I am getting at. lol, Great video btw!
❗ *CORRECTION:* You can bring 2 adult guests OR 1 adult + dependent children under 21 years of age to the United Club.
🤑Get up to 15 Free Stocks from moomoo:
markscreditcards.com/moomoo
💳👉VIEW CREDIT CARD OFFERS!
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🛍RAKUTEN - Earn Cash Back!
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⬆(More links in Description below video!)
Or 1 adult and children under 21 correct? Couple of kids okay?
@@brianflores3820 - Correct. I updated the pinned post to clarify.
I have this card and I love it. Also, you can pay for your $525 AF fee with 35,000 UA miles. A 1.5 cents redemption.
Awesome! 💯 Thanks for mentioning the AF redemption option.
That's a good redemption option.
How many children can u bring in the lounge?
@@brianflores3820 - The terms say "children" under 21 y/o. No limit is specified.
Oh this actually is good to know! TY!
Love this card! As a family of 5 it’s totally worth it. After only two trips it’s paid for itself with just baggage cost alone.
Glad to hear you're liking it! ✈️
I applied for this card a month or so ago and am only $500 bucks away from 90k welcome offer. Being overseas in Japan/Asia, Star Alliance is king so this card was a no brainer as I fly ANA 90% of the time which equates to PQF/PQPs adding up in my United account. I may/may not make United Gold this year, will see. Excellent video.
Great to hear you get solid use from the card for your trips to Japan 🇯🇵
I’ve had this card for a few years now. Fantastic card. The United Club membership alone is worth the card.
Great to hear! 👊✈
I got 3.9 cents per mile on a flight to germany recently with my united explorer. Made me reconcider cancelling it. United's loyalty program is actually pretty good.
Agreed, fairly straight forward to exceed published 1.2 cents
How many miles did that trip cost, and was it economy business or first?
@@PatNeedhamUSA it was last minute economy plus round trip. It would have been around $2600, and I paid 62k miles plus $130.
Fantastic redemption right there! 💯✈️
Dang. I didn't realize how good this CC was. Those Premier Access benefits are unreal for just having a CC. May have to pick this up in the near future for my occasional United flights. Thanks for the info + video!
Yep Premier Access rocks 💯✈️
Been waiting for u to do a United Club Infinite review, gonna watch this later but I'm giving u the thumbs up now. 👍
Awesome thanks! 👍
I have this card, my second year with it, and enjoying the premier benefits!
Great to hear!
Today I applied and got approved for the United Club Infinite card. $20.4K limit and 90k bonus points after $5K spend 😀
Awesome! 💥 Congrats on the approval + limit!
Awesome breakdown and step by step explanation of each benefit. I upgraded recently to United Quest card from Explorer and I love the card. Will see if I make the jump to Infinite card or not. For now I am keeping my Quest card since with all benefits it practically pays for itself ($125 cash back in united purchase per year, 10k anniversary miles credit per year plus 2 free check bags)
Congrats on the upgrade to the Quest! ✈
Great video. I appreciate your objective perspective on this card. I do have the card for many years now and your right. For me it works great being at a UA hub. Thanks for reminding me why I have the card and continue to be one of my go to when traveling. Also, just subscribed, I appreciate the content.
Glad you found value in the video & thank you for subscribing!
Glad you're giving one of my favorite card some love Mark!
💯✈️💳✈️💯
This compliments the IHG Premier very well. They both give credits for each other
💯👍
I mulled over this card for a while, but the biggest thing that pushed me off of this card and into the Quest card was that I often travel with my wife and kids, and not being able to bring both of them into the lounge makes it a really limited benefit for me. Otherwise, I definitely would have gone with this card.
Makes good sense to me!
Wife and kids cant get access to the lounge?
@@mitchellrodriguez1794 either or. Either one other adult or all kids
Not sure why they’re getting you a hard time. We’re a family of 5 and everyone always gets in.
You should be able to bring in your wife and kids. You can bring one adult and dependent children under the age of 21.
There’s a 15th hidden perk. You also get Emerald Executive status with National Car Rental because it’s a Visa Infinite card.
Great addition, xklusives! 🏆
Do we have to register our Infinite card on our National Club account to have it upgraded to Emerald Executive status? Also, does anyone know about how long it takes to show up? I'm a new Infinite card member and will be traveling soon. I already have a car reserved with National so I'm curious.
Great video.
I live by united hub and united got a whole terminal by itself. There's no other lounges besides united lounges which priority pass is not accepted.
I fly united one or twice a year. Mostly once cause i love jetblue n AA.
When i get under 5/24, i ll def get united explorer because of 2 united club passes per year plus the free checked bag
That United Explorer Card is awesome 👊
Applying this weekend. I am just relaxing that I could have already gotten to Platinum this year on United......I used to have the United Club card, but was laid off and never looked at it again. Been working and flying a bit to Asia now it really would have paid for itself. I learned from someone else that OHG has the best "buy" points of anyone in which is especially good in Asia. Everyone should know that once you have Gold status on United you also have free access to Lufthansa and Singapore Airline lounges in this respective countries and if I am not mistaken lounge access in other United Partner lounges outside of the US.. Cannot believe I did nto listen to your vlog earlier.
Awesome benefits. I’m stuck in the Chase 5/24 rule holding pattern for about 18 more months. But will definitely add this card to my wish list.
Thanks for the review, Mark!
💯✈️👍
Thank you!
Remember my comments from a few days ago in your other video? Card does matter. I mentioned the quest because it was 1 step above the explorer used in that video. The infinite card makes the point even easier. Don't forget, one can way surpass domestic economy rates with international and get 4 cents or more per mile vs 1.2 along with everything else. Check it out and thanks again for getting into the details on this one!! 👊
For sure! ✈️ The card definitely matters. In reference to the other comment on the "Are Airline Credit Cards Worth It?" video, I still recommend to 90%+ of people that they earn transferrable bank currencies like the ones from Chase, Amex, Citi, Capital One, etc. over air miles with 1 specific carrier.
@@MarkReese Now this makes more sense. Maybe just didn't want to put this comment in that other video?
When you factor in the free checked in luggage with these ual cards vs spending with the other bank cards, the decision is even easier.
👍👍👍
@@theeverydailyshow - I replied to your other comment, and the video itself also reaches the same conclusion: airline cards can be worth it for perks, but those other bank-issued credit cards tend to be better for spending.
@@MarkReese Agreed. I'm just taking a wholistic approach. And it helps to have United in your backyard. 😀
You should make a video saying what you think the best card is for each major category. Like travel, airlines, hotels, gas, grocery, everyday spend, car rental, business etc etc
Already did, here's the link! ruclips.net/video/GrJynkQdoSo/видео.html
Oh man. Sorry. That video slipped by me. Busy with a new 3 Wk old
Hey Mark as always great content I was looking at this card and the United Explorer and for me the United Explorer would be good for me I don't have it yet but I am going for it, I still get into the United Club (2 passes per year) with the Explorer and still 1 checked bag. Keep the content coming
Good choice! ✈️
As we discussed on one to one, the only super it needs is a companion type ticket like the Delta Reserve, I am getting the business version after I get under 5/24.
The addition of a companion pass would be incredible 🏆
I had the Explorer for a long time, but decided to downgrade it to the Gateway recently. If I ever get targeted for an upgrade to the Club Infinite though, I’d probably do it!! Thanks for the info Mark!
💳💯👍
Just watched this , if you had to pick one to keep one sapphire's reserve or this united club ? IMO if chase does do AF hike on the reserve card to something like $695 but toss in club access , that would be a killer cover all bases setup :)
Easy decision: Sapphire Reserve.
Reason? I almost never fly United, don't use United Clubs, and prefer points that can be used for a lot more opportunities beyond just flights with United + its partners.
However, a frequent United flyer who uses United Clubs might have the opposite answer.
There isn't 1 right answer that universally applies to everyone. It depends on what you want / what you value having.
I have United Explorer. Got it a year ago, the main reason is to get 25% more miles with MPX and get access to special award availability on United. Didn't use passes since I didn't fly United last year. Now the AF will arrive soon, and I will probably downgrade it to Gateway. I'm thinking about getting AA Executive though, since I'm getting CitiGold discount on it, and it gives access to Admirals club to all (free) AUs, also free bags, without buying tickets with a card. Much better, IMHO.
Sounds like a good potential switch 👍
Thank you, Mark. Really enjoy watching all of your video reviews. Very well organized. Very helpful.
Glad to help!
Is the priority boarding automatic regardless of where I'm sitting on the flight? In terms of showing on my boarding pass.
It doesn't matter what your seat number is. With the upgraded boarding benefit, you'll be bumped up to the earlier group (currently Group 2) 👍
As long as you include your MileagePlus # on your reservation, then your Premier Access benefits (incl. priority boarding) should be active and you should see Group 2 on your boarding pass.
One deal breaker for me for now is the fact if I buy a POA-GRU-EWR ticket the Azul part POA-GRU doesn't include those 2 free bags which they should consider including all domestic portions for an International United Flight.
However in about 2 years I'm going to start traveling more and that *2 2nd bag benefit really adds up. $400 dollars one round trip.
I hear ya on that ✌
i rank this as one of 3 line cards, but I passed on this Delta because the Delta Reserve gets me closer to lifetime status with spend alone.
Nice, lifetime status rocks! 🏆✈
Hey mark,
Not sure if you heard but the United club card got redesigned even though it’s not advertised on chases site
The card looks different and most importantly a lot heavier and more resistant to bending. It feels more like the CSR
Cool! Thanks for letting me know!
Just found your channel and love it. One small correction. United club members get two adult guests (so member +2), or member +1 other adult + dependent children. My other favorite card benefit is you get full United Club membership privileges, which gives you star alliance lounge access when you present your membership card (not club credit card) at the front desk of a star alliance carrier’s lounge & are flying any star alliance carrier same day. This is handy at a United hub like Dulles if you have time to stop in the Lufthansa or Turkish lounge there
Fantastic additions, thanks! Yes now that I'm rereading the United Club guest policy, I see I misunderstood it originally. I'll make the correction via pinned comment 💯✈️
This is one of it's strong perks. Visiting these star alliance lounges internationally is insane. It's like priority pass on steroids.
So does your spouse and children get access to lounge?
@@mitchellrodriguez1794 from my experience when my dad and I travel together it's just one guest in Star Alliance partner airlines. Any extra guests (to my knowledge) is only for domestic United clubs
Yes! We just used this perk in Costa Rica.
IMO, any American Airline credit cards are the best to carry out special with Qatar airway, Jordanian royal, and British Airways, so you covering the world with constant value for one way and round trip plus easy to gain 2 business cards with plus 165k
💯✈️
Really considering this card. I’m just curious if it will pair well with my chase trifecta cards. I travel via United 3-5 times a year and Dulles is my main airport so me and my wife can have really elite status when traveling. I just need someone to help me pull the trigger on it lol
Good luck if you decide to go for it! It definitely pairs well with Chase cards (which are better for earning rewards). The United Club card can then be best utilized for the benefits.
Here's a link to another video you may find helpful: ruclips.net/video/WhOdp8Qfyus/видео.html
@@MarkReese
Stellar breakdown! I think I’m going to go for it! The premier status, club passes, “free” bags in itself are worth it, and 80k points? That far outweighs $525 fee. Also fly to Houston a lot so that is a lot of United clubs I’ll be hitting up! Thank for the link to that video!
Great video as always. Very informative.
Thank you!
very helpful video thanks! about to apply for this one
Glad it helped!
I have 3100 dollars in the United travel bank thanks to AMEX.
Looking to get a United card and then using the travel bank cash and points for a nice trip
Legit! 💵✈️
You're not using your Amex properly.
Great Video Mark, I have united quest card and it has same bags policy. My question was if I book flight using miles, I wont be eligible for free bag ? If thats the case do you think using miles and some portion of ticket on credit card would allow free bag ? Thanks
Hi Fayaz - I looked deeper into the terms; here's what they say, _"A primary Cardmember is eligible to receive applicable standard checked bag(s) free when they use their miles to book award travel on United-operated flights, as long as they pay for their award ticket taxes and service charges with their qualifying card and include their MileagePlus account number in their reservation."_
Thanks Mark for the reply. You are my fav youtuber for a reason. Keep up the great work
I miss the days before credit cards gave you access to the lounges. Back then it was less crowded, more peaceful, plenty of seats, no lines to get in, etc. Only way to get in was status with the airline and/or if you were flying business/first class that day. Nowadays all I hear and see are people complaining about the crowds in lounges. Well, that’s what happens when you let every Dick, Jane, and Bob in who has a credit card. There’s my rant for the day. Good card. Good review.
Totally hear ya on that. The exclusivity level has gone down significantly.
I need your opinion. I am looking to add another Chase card (United) while I am under 5/24. I am not in United Hub but travel with United once or twice a year. I already have Amex Plat so lounge access is not a big priority for me. Would you recommend United Infinite or Quest card? I know United Quest has less sign up bonus but gives $125 credits and upto 10K miles rebate upon award booking from 2nd year so I feel more benefits in the long term whereas Infinite card just gives larger welcome bonus one time. I am in the military so AF is not a concern and plan to keep the card. Once I get one United card, I plan to open cards from different banks, so I will be over 5/24 for a while.
For the welcome offer? Sure. For anything else? No. Not being at a hub and only flying 1-2 times per year is not the right formula to get either card & keep them long term.
@@MarkReese Well, I don't pay AF so..
As a Chase fanboy, I love to see the United line of cards getting some love! This is definitely a really solid card. I've always hesitated to pledge my loyalty to one airline in particular, but the value this card provides definitely makes it tempting! Great breakdown as always Mark!
💯✈️💳
Chase fanboy here as well. How does this card complement with the trifecta? I enjoy booking my flights with my sapphire at 1.25 per point. I feel it might be obsolete if I get this. Any tips?
@@masonroberts1 I also have this with the reserve trifecta and marriott boundless card. United has the best international routes, which is why I try and fly them a good amount. I have silver status with United, and the card is still worth it. Am I getting the $525 annual fee worth out of it, probably not, but is my life a whole lot easier when flying United, yes. I'm thinking of downgrading my reserve to the preferred, and upgrading the boundless to the Ritz Carlton card (counter-acts losing the Priority pass from the reserve) though.
@@masonroberts1 If you aren't using your CSP to transfer out to travel partners like United (which I would recommend that you should) then this card would technically not benefit you as much. However, if you're always traveling with United and would use all the perks and benefits that come on this card it could be really beneficial no matter your current setup and how you've been using your Chase points. Not to mention, if you get the SUB on it and then you do take advantage of transferring Chase points to your United account, you could accumulate a TON of United miles and redeem them for a lot of value.. just something to consider!
@@SpencerJohnsonOfficial I usually redeem my chase points via the portal. I get 1.25 per point with the sapphire preferred and 5x travel. However with the United card I’d be willing to transfer to my United account for that 1.4 per one mile with this card. I think the benefits alone make it worth it.
Right now I use the united airlines explorer card because I already have 491000 miles on united airlines
That's an impressive mileage balance! ✈️
Quick Citi question: I’ve had the Citi Double Cash for 6 years and I want to maximize its potential by getting the Citi Premier for transfer partner access. However, I was wondering if you think I should wait to see if Citi releases the rumored Citi Strata Premier & Elite cards this year
Totally up to you. I have no way of knowing if / when Citi will release new card products ✌️
The explorer has two passes. Can you use one for a guest? Can you use one and purchase access for guest?
Sorry don't know how it works. We live west of Chicago and it's short on lounges.
Wondering if my #2 could get a United card for us. More interested in mid level than this.
I can't guarantee this 100% as I haven't done it recently, but you should be able to use one of the United Club One-Time Passes for a guest; I've done it myself in years prior.
Per the terms, you & your guest will have to present a same-day boarding pass for a United / Star Alliance / contracted partner operated flight. I don't see any language saying that the name on the boarding pass needs to match the name on the cardholder account from which the pass was issued.
Here's a link to read more: www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/airport/united-club-and-lounges/access.html
You / your guest can also purchase One-Time Passes directly in the United app.
Thank you for the great video. A few snarky points from me - biggest benefit is the ego rush from using a metal credit card that everyone knows cost an arm & a leg. Luggage related benefits are worthless. Everyone has carry-on these days. The elite stuff is fine. On 2nd thought, just get me there. Conclusion - comes down to the bling of the metal + the bragging rights that come with the outrageous fee. Seriously, I'm getting the card. I encourage anyone with a couple of extra bucks to do the same
Many people have the "just get me there" perspective on travel, which is totally fine. For them, all these "elite cards" should usually be avoided because the benefits would't add meaningful value.
Where do you sit with the Delta Reserve? I looked at UA cards and settled on DL because of the lounge access and first class companion ticket. I may have gotten this card if it included a companion ticket.
Another fantastic card ✈️
I've experienced tsa/clear precheck lines but not priority security lines, I'm having trouble understanding how priority security works, I don't think I've seen a United priority security line before. Maybe it's something not common state side?
Not all airports have it.
Here's a link to more info from United:
www.united.com/en/us/fly/travel/trip-planning/premier-access.html
Here's a picture of what it may look like, when available. It might say, 'Premier Access...'
www.uponarriving.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/United-Premier-Access.jpg
Does this card still make sense with the devaluation of their miles program? Love the videos
Sure. I almost never view airlines cards as worth having if the goal is only to earn miles from spending. They make a lot more sense for benefits / perks (i.e. not for spending).
TY
Can you also reach to silver status automatically just for applying this card?
Simply getting the card does not give you Silver status.
Does it make sense to have this AND the reserve? if yes, how would you use them both?
For a highly frequent traveler flying both Delta + United who values lounge access, then sure. They'd be used for lounge access + spending towards elite status. For most people though, probably not.
@@MarkReese Do you think it would be a good combination to have the chase sapphire preferred and the United ClubSM Infinite Card ? I fly united pretty much 100% of the time
@@xzcvz - If you personally value what the cards give you, then yes, those 2 can work well together.
I wonder when ”complementary Wi-Fi” just comes standard anywhere you are. It’s really not a perk imo. It’s 2023 not 1995.
And WiFi on so many carriers is still painfully slow 😆
Great video thanks right now I use the united airlines explorer card the best buy card the city rewards plus card and the m life las vegas card from the bank of Omaha
Nice! I like that Explorer Card, too 💯
Slightly off topic question: I'm interested in getting the chase sapphire preferred but I don't plan on traveling anytime soon, my idea is to just have it and save up the points for a decent vacation in a few years. I also have the freedom flex and unlimited so I'll have those points to transfer over too.
So is that a decent strategy or would I be better of just paying the whole vacation out of pocket?
Its a good strategy
If you're not planning on traveling soon you may want to hold out on getting the csp until they have an elevated sign up bonus.
Sounds like a good strategy to add the Chase Sapphire Preferred for a future trip! ✈️ If you're not in any hurry, it could be worthwhile to wait longer to see if a higher welcome offer comes along.
Thanks!
10% Saver award is only good for travel within cont US and Canada. Without intl access, this perk is not useful IMO.
Correct, not useful for int'l travel beyond Canada 👍
I would consider this card even though I fly with United only "twice" a year and they partner with ANA, love ANA and JAL.
💯✈️🌏
Nice living room Mark. Good video.
Not mine but thanks!
If I purchased a ticket that’s worth 33k miles, does that mean I earn 132k miles back? Since it’s 4x I earn for every mile?
No. It means you earn 4X miles per $1 in cash you spend on a United flight.
Example: You spend $562 on a flight, charge it to the card, and earn 4X miles on that purchase.
$562 x 4 = 2,248 miles earned.
If you redeem miles for a flight, you don't earn anything in return.
Question. Can I transfer miles earned with this card to a partner airline of star alliance such as Lufthansa or Turkish Airlines? Thank you
You don't literally transfer them, but you can use them to book partner flights. For example, you might see a flight come up in the search results on United's website, but it may be operated by Lufthansa or another Star Alliance partner. You can still redeem your United miles when booking, though.
@@MarkReese thank you
Already have the JetBlue and AA Citibank credit card so I'll pass not really interested. Plus never fly on united...
I use JetBlue and AA plus Spirit for local travel ...virgin and British Airways for my trips to London , spirit and JetBlue for south America and JetBlue and AA for the Caribbean.....
You got it worked out! 🌍✈️
do aus get the premiere access when not flying with the primary card holder?
Per the terms, the answer seems to be 'no.' Here's what they say...
_"The primary Cardmember and companions traveling on the same reservation are eligible for Premier Access; _*_authorized users are only eligible if they are on the same reservation as the primary Cardmember."_*
What would your choice be for an overall travel credit card?
Not sure right now.
Thanks for this detailed breakdown. Not sure it's the best card for me.
You're welcome 👍
Great video. Thank you 🤙👍
You bet! 👊
I’d totally get this card too if Delta didn’t have a hub here. It’s either delta or southwest for me but that latter makes no sense to me
Hubs & routing = major factors when choosing an airline (and their credit cards) 👍
Great information
Glad it's helpful!
Is it considered traveling on an award ticket if you pay for an upgrade with points and the flight with the card or pay in any manner part card part points?
Not sure ✌ I'd ask United directly.
Waiting for the 120k bonus miles offer to come back.
💯✈👍
I am waiting to get at least 100k miles as sign up bonus. I’ll keep waiting
There are no current Amtrak credit card reviews that could be a cool set of cards to review
Perhaps at some point!
How much points would you get from funding TravelBank?
Not sure about that ✌
Do you know if this cards points are transferable with the sapphires?
They are not. You cannot transfer any points into Chase.
@@MarkReese fast reply wow! Haha thanks. Probably going to grab the United Infinite card and pair it with the Venture X. Can’t really beat the $0 authorized user perks which will be fantastic for my wife and I. Love your channel thanks for great videos!
I personally hate United and I will not get their credit cards in the future. I have over 200k United miles but I don't seem to find much value with those miles. Their value is probably 50% less than AAdvantage miles or 25% less than Delta Skymiles. A roundtrip ticket is at the very least 25k miles for domestic and upwards of 40k for international. If I'm flexible, I can find the same with American for 12k domestic and 30k international. Another thing with United is that they will "punish" you with a middle seat unless you pay for what you want, even if your profile says your preferred seating is window or aisle, EVEN if the plane is half empty. With AA and Delta, they usually assign me an aisle seat for free when I check in for my flight. My plan is to burn those United miles and not do business with them anymore
Sorry to hear that ✌
Can you earn the 80,000 miles if you buy $5k dollars worth of miles from United Airlines and then also receive 4x Miles on those $5k netting another 20,000 miles. So at the end of the day I'd purchase 145,000 miles for just over $5k, I'd also receive 80,000 miles as a bonus and also receive roughly 20,000 miles from the 4x miles. Would that work? I'd receive 245,000 miles from the actions previously stated?
Probably not. Regardless, that purchase would very likely be a horrific value.
145K miles cost $5,075 right now.
You'll also have to pay a $380.63 Tax Recovery Fee.
Total = $5,455.63
So, the cost per mile...
= ($5,455.63 ÷ 145,000) x 100
= 3.76¢ per mile
United miles are worth, on average, 1.1¢ each.
So, you'd have to have one of the best redemptions ever - likely on a Star Alliance partner for a long-haul, international flight - in order for that purchase to give you more value than you paid.
Otherwise, you'd likely loose money (I'm talking thousands).
Furthermore, buying points is processed via Points.com on the backend, so it's probably going to count as a 3rd-party transaction rather than a United transaction. Meaning you'd probably earn 1X miles on the purchase using a United credit card.
Right now I use the united airlines explorer card
Another good card 💯
Never heard of LHRC before. I wonder if it is as good as FHR?
It was new to me as well! I haven't compared the 2.
To anyone who knows… Do you need to purchase the United ticket with the club card in order to get United club access? Or can I buy a United ticket on another CC (aka another travel CC with better points multiplier) and just show the same day boarding pass and club membership number to get in?
You can purchase the ticket with another credit card 👍
You can also fly with another Star Alliance partner and still access the United Club.
Thanks for the info!! The only reason I brought it up was because I checked the chase website and there’s an asterisk near United Club Membership stating that these benefits are included when you use the card. So that was a little confusing for me. But I guess the club membership for this card can kind of be treated like a priority pass membership in a way?
@@VincentPascual - Access to the Star Alliance lounges requires presenting your United Club _membership card_ once you receive it in the mail & not the United Club _credit card,_ correct?
@@MarkReese I called the United Club customer service before deciding on a card and they said that once you are approved for the Chase Infinite card, Chase updates your United Mileage Plus Club account automatically and your United Membership card will be digital. Specifically, she said it'll show up on your United account so you can use the app rather than a physical card. Hope that hels.
I thought the primary cardmember can bring 2 adult guests.
Correct, I misunderstood the terms when I first read them. See the pinned comment directly below the video for the correction.
The Chase reserve is much better.
For earning rewards...yes.
For getting into the United Club...no 😬
If I have 4 AU on the card, can all 4 enter the lounge with me?
No. Here's what the terms say, "The United Club membership card will be sent to the primary Cardmember 6 weeks after the account open date. Authorized users will not receive their own United Club membership and are only eligible for United Club access if they accompany the primary Cardmember and qualify as an eligible guest per the then-current United Club access policies."
Can you make the same about AA Executive?
Already did. Here's the link: ruclips.net/video/Lzc4gq8D39w/видео.html
If a card's #1 benefit is lounge membership, I'm sorry that's not such a great card
Fair enough!
Best video!
Glad to hear you liked it!
Thank you !
Of course!
If I’m 20 is this card worth it?
How often do you fly United? How often would you use & value the United Club?
@@MarkReese every time I fly it’s United since I’m always flying from ohare in chi it’s a good option. My only concern is that this card is more for people with a higher income at an older age but maybe im wrong that’s why I was asking. You think it’s more just about how often one flys?
@@westonmorgan2415 - Age doesn't matter & having a high income doesn't matter when it comes to an approval. It comes down to whether you get more value than it costs (and having an income that allows you to personally make sense of it) ✈
looks like a really nice card but I dont fly United
Agreed 👍
I’m not sure why I’m watching this, I don’t even like United 🤣🤣🤣
😂✈️
This rivals the AA executive card imo!
It sure does!
It does. I'm still hoping Mark does a Versus video of the AA executive card vs the United Club Infinite. I had made a comment about this on one of his previous videos for a request of the AA executive vs the United Club Infinite.
@@caribdude8151 - Lots of rumors (and an actual survey from Citi) about potential changes to the AA Executive. I may hold off on that comparison for now.
@@MarkReese Thanks for the info. Now I know why there wasn't a video lol. Btw in that AA Exec video u called the card the "American Airlines Black Card" kinda similar how this card in this video would be the United Infinite Black card u could say also similar to how the BoA PR Elite would be the Black card out of that. Black card meaning the most luxury and highest annual fee, all similar to how it kinda is named like the Amex Centurion Black card if all that makes sense if you know where I am getting at. lol, Great video btw!
You gonna apply, Mark?
Also, would love a comparison between the United Club Infinite and Explorer cards
No I don't intend on applying.
Definitely gotta get this card once I’m out of 5/24 prison
Make it happen! 💳
👍🏻
👊
First
Don’t tell me I’m not 🎉
SOXGATORS beat ya 😁🥈
I’m out of the game.
Stack up the cash! 💵
Only problem is United is a horrible airline.
✌