Over the weekend, some eagle-eyed Amex cardholders noticed new language indicating that, beginning Aug. 1, restaurants would need to display a badge on the Resy website showing whether they were eligible for the built-in Resy statement credits* on the American Express® Gold Card (up to $50 biannually) and American Express Platinum Card® (up to $100 quarterly).

Understandably, that raised some eyebrows.

Fortunately, the sky isn't falling with this easier-to-use statement credit, and the change doesn't appear to make the credit any harder to use.

If some Resy restaurants qualified for the credit while others did not, it would add unnecessary complexity to what has historically been one of the easiest Amex statement credits to use — especially if the list of eligible restaurants were to fluctuate or shrink.

*Enrollment required, for use at U.S. Resy restaurants

Related: Coming soon: Use your Amex Resy credit at even more restaurants

The good news: Your Resy credit isn't losing restaurants

Thankfully, American Express confirmed to TPG that there is no major cause for alarm. In a statement shared with TPG on Monday, Amex said:

"We have added a Resy Credit eligible badge to Resy venues pages to provide additional clarity to diners at the time of booking. We have not removed Resy venues that are eligible today and will be adding more eligible venues later this year when Tock venues become bookable on Resy."

That means that you should be able to keep using your Resy credits as you have before.

American Express acquired Tock, a platform for booking high-end dining experiences, wineries, and more. And Resy, also owned by American Express, is now integrating Tock venues into its platform.

TPG will continue monitoring the situation and will share updates as they become available. For now, make sure your eligible Amex card is enrolled for the Resy credit and continue using the credit as you normally would.

To learn more, check out our full review of the Amex Gold and our full review of the Amex Platinum.

Transfer bonuses can offer lucrative opportunities to help you maximize your points and miles and work your way toward fantastic award redemptions. You can sometimes get significantly more value from your rewards by transferring them to an airline or hotel partner during one of these bonus periods.

Remember, though, that these are limited-time offers: You'll need to act fast if you find one that suits your travel plans.

We've compiled transfer bonus updates for most major programs with transferable rewards to make tracking these offers easier. Just note that transfer bonuses are sometimes targeted, so some may not be available to you.

Active credit card transfer bonuses

We're currently seeing these transfer bonuses:

American Express Membership Rewards transfer bonuses

American Express Membership Rewards is offering a 25% transfer bonus to Air France-KLM Flying Blue and a 20% transfer bonus to Marriott Bonvoy, both through June 30, as well as a 15% transfer bonus to Avianca Lifemiles through July 15.

How to earn American Express Membership Rewards points

If you're looking to earn more of these valuable points, the following American Express cards could prove useful additions to your wallet:

• American Express® Gold Card: Find out your offer and see if you are eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer.
• American Express Platinum Card®: Find out your offer and see if you are eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $12,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer.

Related: How to redeem American Express Membership Rewards points for maximum value

Capital One transfer bonuses

Capital One is not currently offering any transfer bonuses.

How to earn Capital One miles

If you're looking to earn more transferable miles, the following Capital One cards are solid options to consider:

• Capital One Venture Business: Earn 100,000 bonus miles after spending $10,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

According to TPG's June 2026 valuations, Capital One miles are worth 1.85 cents each. Most transfers from Capital One will process instantly. For more details, read our guides to Capital One transfer partners and how to transfer Capital One miles.

Related: Should you transfer Capital One miles to partners or redeem directly for travel?

Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer bonuses

Chase is currently offering two transfer bonuses.

Through June 30, you can transfer your Chase Ultimate Rewards points to Marriott Bonvoy with a huge 55% bonus. Next up, you can receive a 30% bonus by transferring your points to Virgin Atlantic Flying Club through July 14.

As always, it's best to transfer points only when you're ready to book an award since transfers are irreversible and award availability can change quickly.

How to earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points

If you want to earn more Chase Ultimate Rewards points, the following Chase cards could make good additions to your wallet:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees): Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees): Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
• Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card (see rates and fees): Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Related: Chase Ultimate Rewards points: How to redeem for maximum value

Citi ThankYou Rewards transfer bonuses

Citi ThankYou Rewards is offering a 50% transfer bonus to Accor Live Limitless through July 18. Additionally, you'll enjoy a 30% bonus when transferring Citi points to Qatar Airways Privilege Club through June 30.

You'll only unlock the bonus in its entirety if you hold the Citi Strata Elite℠ Card (see rates and fees), the Citi Strata Premier® Card (see rates and fees) or the Citi Prestige® Card (no longer available to new applicants). Other Citi cards do not unlock the full 1:1 transfer ratio, so the transfers aren't as valuable.

The information for the Citi Prestige has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

How to earn Citi ThankYou Rewards points

To earn more Citi ThankYou Rewards points, consider these Citi credit cards:

• Citi Strata Elite Card: Earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
• Citi Strata Premier Card: Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

TPG values Citi ThankYou Rewards points at 1.9 cents each, per our June 2026 valuations, and most transfers happen instantly.

Related: Citi ThankYou Rewards transfer partners: Redeem your points with airlines and hotels

Marriott Bonvoy transfer bonuses

Although you can transfer Marriott Bonvoy points to various airlines, it's generally not recommended due to the 3:1 transfer ratio you'll receive. However, if you wish to transfer Marriott Bonvoy points, the program is currently offering a 25% transfer bonus to United MileagePlus until June 30.

How to earn Marriott Bonvoy points

If you're looking to earn Marriott Bonvoy points, the following Marriott cards may be of interest:

• Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card (see rates and fees): Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
• Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card (see rates and fees): Earn 125,000 bonus points and a free night award (valued at up to 50,000 points) after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Additionally, earn up to $100 in statement credits (up to $50 biannually) after spending $500 on eligible airline purchases. Certain hotels have resort fees.
• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card: Earn up to 150,000 bonus points: 100,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership, plus an additional 50,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases (for a total of $8,000) in the first six months of card membership.
• Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card: Earn 150,000 bonus points and a $125 statement credit after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership.

According to TPG's June 2026 valuations, Marriott Bonvoy points are worth 0.80 cents each. Some airlines take a few days (or even weeks) to receive the points.

Related: How to redeem Marriott Bonvoy points for maximum value

Rove transfer bonuses

Rove is offering an excellent 50% bonus to Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles. This means you can book business-class flights from North America to Turkey for as little as 44,000 Rove miles during this transfer bonus.

Related: A review of Turkish Airlines A350-900 business class: Standout dining, uneven execution

How to earn Rove miles

We're excited about the new "no credit card required" rewards program, Rove. You can book hotels and flights and shop online through the Rove portal; it allows you to earn incredible amounts of transferable miles, such as up to 54 miles per dollar spent on select hotels.

Rove is rapidly adding transfer partners, including Lufthansa Miles & More, a program that has traditionally been difficult to earn miles in. This opens up the ability to book Lufthansa's incredible first-class product in advance with miles.

If you don't have any Rove miles, you can earn 1,000 miles at no cost right now just by signing up through TPG's offer.

Should you transfer points and miles?

We only recommend transferring points or miles if you have a short-term plan to use them. Transfers are irreversible, and you don't want to be stuck with thousands of points or miles in a program you have little use for.

If you don't have a specific redemption in mind but still want to earn points or miles, you're likely better off earning rewards through card welcome bonuses and everyday spending.

We always recommend verifying award availability before transferring your rewards.

Bottom line

When a program with a transferable currency offers a transfer bonus, it's important to run the numbers to determine whether it is worthwhile.

Generally, you won't want to transfer your points or miles unless you have a specific redemption in mind. After all, a large part of the value of transferable points and miles comes from their flexibility, which you'll give up when you convert them to a partner's currency. However, a transfer bonus can help you get more value from your points and miles if you frequently use a partner program or plan to redeem them soon.

If you feel like you sometimes need a Points PhD to make the most of your credit card rewards, you aren't alone.

While some rewards enthusiasts love diving into airline alliances and transfer sweet spots, that's not the only way to get strong value from your points. In fact, Chase Ultimate Rewards points offer several easy redemption options that don't require learning a single transfer partner. Chase's ecosystem is one of the most flexible, allowing you to get more value from your points in more places.

Whether you want to book a trip, offset everyday expenses, redeem for gift cards or simply pocket some extra cash into your Chase checking account, there are plenty of straightforward ways to put your points to work.

And with the current Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees) welcome offer to earn 100,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening, the value can add up quickly. Depending on how you redeem, those points can easily be worth $1,000 or more — all on a card with a $95 annual fee. That means the value of the welcome bonus alone can potentially exceed the annual fee by more than 10 times.

Here are six easy ways — outside of transfer partners — to easily redeem your Chase points and reap some excellent rewards.

Book trips through Chase Travel

If you want a simple way to redeem your points without transferring them to an airline or hotel partner, Chase Travel℠ is one of the easiest options available.

Through the portal, eligible cardmembers can use Ultimate Rewards points to book flights, hotels, rental cars, cruises and more directly through Chase. There's no need to worry about award availability, airline alliances or complicated redemption charts.

And with Chase Sapphire Preferred, your points can also be worth more when redeemed this way. You can redeem your points through Chase Travel for up to 1.5 cents apiece for some redemptions, thanks to Chase's Points Boost offers.

That means a 100,000-point welcome bonus could potentially provide as much as $1,500 in travel value through Chase Travel — an impressive return for a card with a $95 annual fee.

One of my best redemptions to date was with points through Chase Travel. I snagged a three-night stay at Hotel Indigo Florence by IHG, a property that would have cost nearly $800 in cash. Thanks to a Points Boost offer in the travel portal, I was able to book the three-night stay for just over 49,000 points plus $49.26 in fees.

Another major advantage is that flights and some hotels booked through Chase Travel can still earn program-specific rewards and elite-status credits. That creates a double win: You can redeem points for travel while still taking advantage of your airline or hotel loyalty program benefits.

And unlike some airline programs that require you to have enough miles for an entire booking, Chase allows you to combine points and cash. That makes it easy to use even a small balance of leftover points toward a trip. Plus, Chase Sapphire Preferred cardmembers now get a $100 hotel credit annually for hotel bookings through Chase Travel — letting your points go even further.

Use Pay Yourself Back for everyday purchases

Pay Yourself Back gives Chase cardmembers another easy redemption option that doesn't involve booking travel.

The feature allows eligible cardmembers to redeem Ultimate Rewards points for statement credits against select everyday purchases, often at an elevated redemption rate. Plus, the annual fee is included as a Pay Yourself Back option for Sapphire Preferred, allowing cardmembers to cover it with points.

Current eligible categories include pet supply stores and veterinary services, where some cardmembers can receive 25% more value for their points — equal to 1.25 cents per point. Select charitable donations may qualify for 50% more value, or 1.5 cents per point.

And for Q3, we already know that one of these categories will be public transit (excluding ride-hailing services).

The eligible categories can change periodically, so it's worth checking Chase's current offers to see what's available.

This Pay Yourself Back can provide excellent value in a simple format — even more value than you'll get from similar redemption options with other issuers. Plus, the option to cover your annual fee this way gives you the chance to enjoy your card benefits and have the card pay for itself.

Save on gift cards

Gift cards are another easy way to redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points, and Chase frequently runs limited-time promotions that can improve the value even further.

You can redeem your points for gift cards at a base rate of one cent per point — well above the gift card redemption rates of some issuers.

And even better, cardmembers can find some special redemption offers on certain gift cards, allowing you to get even more value from your points when you redeem this way. Current offers include discounts of 10% to 15% on select gift cards from brands like Apple, Chili's, Spafinder and Fandango.

For example:

• A $10 Apple gift card may cost 900 points during a promotion
• A $15 Spafinder gift card may cost 1,275 points

These promotions can be especially useful for cardmembers looking to bridge the gap on purchases that would otherwise be out of reach. Ellie Nan Storck, TPG's hotels and destinations managing editor, used her points for a gift card to purchase a pricy perfume she had her eye on. By using her points for a gift card, she was able to get something that was previously out of her budget.

This option to redeem points for gift cards can be especially appealing around holidays, when the cost of gifts can really add up.

Redeem points for cash back

If simplicity is your priority, cash back remains one of the easiest redemption options available.

Chase Ultimate Rewards points can typically be redeemed for statement credits or direct deposits into eligible bank accounts at a flat rate of 1 cent per point.

That means 100,000 points could easily become $1,000 in cold, hard cash back. And it's hard to argue with that sort of return.

A 1 cent-per-point redemption rate for cash back is also competitive with — or better than — the baseline cash-back redemption options offered by several other major rewards programs.

While that redemption rate may not maximize the theoretical value of your points, it offers maximum flexibility. For some cardmembers, that could mean using points to help offset groceries, utility bills or other everyday expenses.

Paying with points at Amazon or PayPal

Chase also allows eligible cardmembers to link Ultimate Rewards points to Amazon and PayPal accounts for quick, convenient purchases.

When redeeming Ultimate Rewards points through Amazon's Shop with Points feature, points are typically worth about 0.8 cents each, which is below the rate for some other redemptions, but it's still nice to know it is available.

While these redemption options may not maximize the absolute highest value of your points, some cardmembers may appreciate the added convenience and flexibility — especially for small purchases or quick checkout options.

Bottom line

If you have Chase Ultimate Rewards points, you have lots of easy options when it comes time to cash them in.

And if studying airline transfer partners and award charts isn't your vibe, you can still get strong value from your rewards without complicating the process.

Whether you choose to book travel through Chase Travel, maximize a Pay Yourself Back promotion, grab a discounted gift card or simply redeem points for cash back, Chase points remain one of the most flexible rewards currencies around — giving you plenty of ways to easily get more than $1,000 of value from the current 100,000-point offer.

No matter how you choose to use them, it's easy to see why Chase Ultimate Rewards points continue to be so valuable for both beginners and seasoned travelers alike.

As a traveler, I'm a proud member of team carry-on. Each time I fly, whether it be for a few days or a few weeks, I strive to fit everything into a carry-on bag.

There are plenty of other people who prefer to check a bag, though.

Whether you're on team carry-on or team checked baggage, there are some universal packing tips that can help, regardless of your suitcase size.

General packing tips

Use packing cubes

Packing cubes are a popular topic of discussion here at TPG. Some of us, including TPG senior director Summer Hull, go so far as to say they will "change your life."

As a mom of two who travels nearly 100,000 miles yearly, Summer recommends using cubes for family packing. She specifically uses them to divide the packing by activity and day, rather than have each person use a cube for all their items.

Plus, many packing cubes are water-resistant, helping keep clothes dry, especially if accidental spills occur while traveling.

Try 'nesting'

Aside from packing cubes, another space-saving travel technique is known as "nesting." When traveling, this practice involves placing smaller items inside larger ones. For example, stuffing your socks inside your shoes or laying belts around the outside edges of your suitcase.

Roll your clothes

It can be a point of contention among travelers, but if you know that you'll have an iron at your hotel or just simply don't care about a few extra wrinkles, rolling shirts and pants can help you pack more to save suitcase space.

Wear your bulkiest clothing items

During the holiday travel season, many of us may be packing winter clothing items. Whether you're departing for a cold destination or heading to the ski slopes, TPG senior editor Christine Gallipeau reminds us to wear those heavy items rather than take up precious packing space.

"I wear my bulkiest items, which in the winter usually means jeans, my thicker coat and boots," she said. "That way, I don't have to use valuable carry-on space for them since I never fly with a checked bag."

Buy items at your destination

Depending on where you are traveling, look for opportunities to buy items at your destination. For example, TPG's managing editor, Giselle Gomez, never packs a sleeve of diapers for her infant son; instead, she purchases baby items when she arrives at her destination. This helps her save a ton of space, especially since she only likes to travel with a carry-on and not check a bag.

Bottom line

As you head out on your next flight, keep these simple packing tips in mind.

Whether you try packing cubes for the first time or roll your clothes instead of folding them (or both), these tips should make packing a little less stressful while saving space, which is the ultimate goal.

Related reading:

• Here's what to pack in a carry-on bag every time you travel
• I always check a bag — and I'm proud to admit it
• Away soft-sided luggage review: Easy glide and space to overpack

If you haven't evaluated your credit card portfolio lately, now is a great time to do so.

That's because we regularly update this roundup to feature top welcome bonuses from cards that made the cut for our best credit cards list. Earning new card bonuses is the fastest way to accumulate a stash of points and miles, so if you're working on building up your travel rewards balance, it's likely that one of the options below might be a good fit for you.

Since many issuers have restrictions on how often you can earn a bonus on a card, it's important to time your application for when there's a solid offer. Also, higher bonuses don't always stick around for long, so if you're considering one of these offers, you'll want to hop on it sooner rather than later.

If you're not ready to add a higher-end card, consider these great starter cards or even one with a 0% introductory annual percentage rate.

The best rewards card offers of June 2026

*The welcome offer value is determined using TPG's June 2026 valuations and is not provided by, nor reviewed by, the issuer.

The Business Platinum Card from American Express

This business card stands out not only for its extremely valuable welcome offer but also for travel perks that can easily cover its $895 annual fee.

Cardmembers enjoy automatic Gold status in both the Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy loyalty programs (enrollment required), along with some of the best lounge access perks of any business card out there.

As far as earning rates go, cardmembers earn 5 points per dollar spent on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com and 2 points per dollar spent on eligible purchases in select business categories and eligible purchases of $5,000 or more (up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar spent).

To learn more, read our full review of the American Express Business Platinum.

Find out your offer and see if you are eligible for as high as 300,000 bonus points after spending $20,000 on purchases in the first three months of card membership. Welcome offers vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer.

Apply here: The Business Platinum Card from American Express

Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business

The Sapphire Reserve for Business is a solid choice for high-spending business owners who can maximize valuable statement credits and get the most out of the card's high earning rates.

These earning rates include:

• 8 points per dollar spent on Chase Travel℠ bookings
• 5 points per dollar spent on Lyft (through Sept. 30, 2027)
• 4 points per dollar spent on flights and hotels booked directly
• 3 points per dollar spent on social media and search engine advertising
• 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases

To learn more, read our full review of the Sapphire Reserve for Business.

Earn 200,000 bonus points after spending $30,000 on purchases in the first six months from account opening.

Apply here: Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business

American Express Business Gold Card

The Amex Business Gold is a fantastic card for business owners looking to maximize earnings from a single card.

It has 4 points per dollar spent earning categories that automatically reflect your highest spending areas (on the top two eligible spending categories each billing cycle; capped at $150,000 in combined purchases each calendar year, then 1 point per dollar spent).

To learn more, read our full review of the Amex Business Gold.

Find out your offer and see if you are eligible for as high as 200,000 bonus points after spending $15,000 on purchases in the first three months of card membership. Welcome offers vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer.

Apply here: American Express Business Gold Card

American Express Platinum Card

Often referred to as the king of the premium travel rewards cards, the Amex Platinum offers a slew of benefits for an annual fee of $895.

Cardmembers enjoy perks like automatic elite status with Hilton Honors, Marriott Bonvoy and Leaders Club from The Leading Hotels of the World (enrollment required), plus some of the best airport lounge access of any card for eligible cardmembers.

Cardmembers also enjoy 5 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel® (on up to $500,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar spent), 5 points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel and 1 point per dollar spent on other eligible purchases.

To learn more, read our full review of the American Express Platinum.

Find out your offer and see if you are eligible for as high as 175,000 bonus points after spending $12,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer.

Apply here: American Express Platinum Card

Chase Sapphire Reserve

Chase's premium rewards card earns valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards points and provides an excellent suite of statement credits to elevate your travels.

Highlights of the Sapphire Reserve include airport lounge access, the card's flexible $300 annual travel credit and useful travel protections.

To learn more, read our full review of the Sapphire Reserve.

Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Apply here: Chase Sapphire Reserve

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

The Sapphire Preferred has been refreshed to include even more value for cardholders, including an increased $100 annual hotel credit for prepaid bookings made through Chase Travel and a credit for TSA PreCheck, Global Entry or Nexus every four years.

Plus, the card includes solid earning rates in a variety of popular categories, including two new categories: 3 points per dollar spent on gas and electric vehicle charging and 3 points per dollar spent on vacation homes at top brands (Airbnb, Vrbo, Plum Guide, HomeAway, Homestay.com and Vacasa).

To learn more, read our full review of the Sapphire Preferred.

Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Apply here: Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

American Express Gold Card

The Amex Gold Card is a favorite of many TPG staffers, largely thanks to its terrific earning rates on dining at restaurants worldwide and groceries at U.S. supermarkets (subject to spending caps).

It earns at the following rates:

• 5 points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked through amextravel.com or the Amex Travel App™
• 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide (first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar spent)
• 4 points per dollar spent at U.S. supermarkets (first $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar spent)
• 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airlines, on amextravel.com or the Amex Travel App
• 2 points per dollar spent on car rentals booked on amextravel.com or the Amex Travel App
• 2 points per dollar spent on cruises booked on amextravel.com
• 1 point per dollar spent on other eligible purchases

The card also offers multiple dining statement credits to help offset its relatively manageable $325 annual fee.

To learn more, read our full review of the American Express Gold.

Find out your offer and see if you are eligible for as high as 100,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary, and you may not be eligible for an offer.

Apply here: American Express Gold Card

Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite credit card

Right now, Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards' top card, the Atmos Summit, is providing a great offer for interested cardholders.

The Atmos Summit is the program's premium option, featuring two Alaska lounge passes each calendar quarter, free checked bags and priority boarding for you and up to six guests flying on the same reservation. It also earns an unrivaled 3 points per dollar spent on all foreign transactions.

To learn more, read our full review of the Atmos Rewards Summit.

Earn 100,000 bonus points and a 25,000-point Global Companion Award after spending $6,500 on purchases in the first 90 days from account opening. Plus, receive a 50% flight discount code for a qualifying future flight after opening your new account.

Apply here: Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite credit card

Delta SkyMiles cards

Right now, each of the Delta Amex cards provides solid bonus offers for new cardholders to earn a haul of SkyMiles.

With options ranging from the premium Delta Reserve to the mid-tier Delta Gold, there is an option for all types of travelers, from airport lounge enthusiasts to maximizers looking for free checked bag benefits.

To learn more, read our full reviews of the Delta Reserve Business, Delta Reserve, Delta Platinum Business, Delta Platinum, Delta Gold Business and Delta Gold.

Apply here: Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business American Express Card Earn 125,000 bonus miles after spending $15,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership. Offer ends July 15.

Apply here: Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card Earn up to 125,000 bonus miles: 100,000 bonus miles after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership, plus earn 25,000 bonus miles after spending an additional $3,000 on purchases (for a total of $9,000) in the first six months of card membership. Offer ends July 15.

Apply here: Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business American Express Card Earn 100,000 bonus miles after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership. Offer ends July 15.

Apply here: Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card Earn up to 100,000 bonus miles: 80,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership, plus earn 20,000 bonus miles after spending an additional $2,000 on purchases (for a total of $6,000) in the first six months of card membership. Offer ends July 15.

Apply here: Delta SkyMiles Gold Business American Express Card Earn 90,000 bonus miles after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership. Offer ends July 15.

Apply here: Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card Earn up to 90,000 bonus miles: 70,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership, plus earn 20,000 bonus miles after spending an additional $2,000 on purchases (for a total of $5,000) in the first six months of card membership. Offer ends July 15.

United Business Card

If you're a United Airlines loyalist, you have an excellent business card option available to you.

The latest offer on the United Business provides up to to $1,485 in value (including the points from adding an authorized user; not including the value of the PQPs), per TPG's June 2026 valuations.

To learn more, read our full review of the United Business card.

Earn up to 110,000 bonus miles and 2,000 PQPs: 100,000 bonus miles and 2,000 PQPs after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening, plus an additional 10,000 bonus miles after adding an authorized user in the first three months from account opening.

Apply here: United Business Card

Citi / AAdvantage Globe Mastercard

For those who aren't interested in paying a premium annual fee, the AAdvantage Globe offers solid perks for a midrange $350 annual price tag.

Cardholders enjoy benefits like an up to $100 annual Splurge credit to use with select brands (exclusions apply), four Admirals Club passes each year and their first checked bag free.

To learn more, check out our full review of the AAdvantage Globe.

For a limited time, earn 90,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first four months from account opening.

Apply here: Citi / AAdvantage Globe Mastercard

Bilt Palladium Card

The premium Bilt Palladium Card is an excellent choice for those all-in on Bilt. Cardholders will earn 2 points per dollar and 4% Bilt Cash** (as long as you choose to earn Bilt Cash) on everyday purchases, which guarantees a sky-high 4.4% return on everyday purchases, per TPG's June 2026 valuations.

You'll also receive a $400 Bilt Travel portal hotel credit each calendar year, split into two biannual $200 statement credits.

To learn more, read our full review of the Bilt Palladium Card.

**Up to $100 of Bilt Cash earned rolls over to the next year.

Earn 50,000 bonus points and Gold status after spending $4,000 on everyday purchases in the first 90 days from account opening. Plus, receive $300 in Bilt Cash upon approval.

Apply here: Bilt Palladium Card

Ink Business Cash Credit Card

The latest offer on the Ink Business Cash is a fantastic value in exchange for the card's $0 annual fee.

Plus, cardholders earn 5% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases at office supply stores and on internet, cable and phone services each account anniversary year and 2% cash back on the first $25,000 spent in combined purchases on dining and gas each account anniversary year, making this a solid card for many business owners.

To learn more, read our full review of the Ink Business Cash.

Earn $1,000 after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first four months from account opening.

Apply here: Ink Business Cash Credit Card

Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card

The Ink Business Unlimited earns an uncapped 1.5% back on all purchases, which is great for business owners who make purchases across a broad swath of categories.

Plus, you'll receive a hefty bonus for no annual fee.

To learn more, read our full review of the Ink Business Unlimited.

Earn $1,000 after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first four months from account opening.

Apply here: Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card

Bottom line

The quickest way to earn points and miles is by applying for a new credit card. If any of these offers interest you, act sooner rather than later, as several are only available for a limited time.

Remember that Chase's 5/24 rule means that it's often best to apply for Chase cards before other issuers' products. If you want some guidance on what card to go for next, here's some help on how to choose the best credit card for you.

For rates and fees of the Amex Business Platinum Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Amex Business Gold Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Amex Gold Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Delta Reserve Business, click here.
For rates and fees of the Delta Reserve, click here.
For rates and fees of the Delta Platinum Business, click here.
For rates and fees of the Delta Platinum, click here.
For rates and fees of the Delta Gold Business, click here.
For rates and fees of the Delta Gold, click here.

Chase Ultimate Rewards is one of the most valuable rewards currencies you can have in your wallet. Aside from possibly earning 1 to 10 points per dollar spent on select Chase-branded credit cards, you can maximize their value by transferring your hard-earned Ultimate Rewards points to one of the issuer's 14 airline and hotel partners.

Whether you want to book a flight to Europe, save on a domestic trip or stay at a high-end hotel, redeeming your Ultimate Rewards points via transfer partners can be a lucrative way to spend (and even save) your Chase points.

Here is everything to know about Chase Ultimate Rewards' transfer partners.

Related: Why I choose to earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points over Amex Membership Rewards points

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees): Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Who are the Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer partners?

You can transfer Ultimate Rewards points to 10 airline programs:

• Aer Lingus AerClub
• Air Canada Aeroplan
• Air France-KLM Flying Blue
• British Airways Club
• Iberia Club
• JetBlue TrueBlue
• Singapore KrisFlyer
• Southwest Rapid Rewards
• United MileagePlus
• Virgin Atlantic Flying Club

Chase also partners with four hotel programs:

• IHG One Rewards
• Marriott Bonvoy
• World of Hyatt
• Wyndham Rewards

Chase points transfer to partners at a 1:1 ratio, with one exception. New Chase Sapphire Preferred cardholders who apply on or after June 15, 2026, can transfer Chase points to World of Hyatt at a 4:3 rate. Existing Sapphire Preferred cardholders can continue transferring points to Hyatt at a 1:1 rate through Sept. 30, 2026, before moving to a 4:3 rate on Oct. 1, 2026.

For Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card (see rates and fees) cardholders, transfers to World of Hyatt remain 1:1 through Sept. 30, 2026. Beginning Oct. 1, 2026, both existing cardholders and new applicants will transfer Chase points to Hyatt at a 4:3 rate.

Transfers must be made in increments of 1,000. However, Chase occasionally offers transfer bonuses to partners, which can yield even higher value for your redemptions.

How long do Chase Ultimate Rewards transfers take?

Most transfers from Chase Ultimate Rewards to its partner programs are instantaneous. However, in our most recent testing, transfers to Singapore KrisFlyer took about 48 hours. Delays can happen when transferring your points for some simple reasons as well.

To facilitate the transfer process, ensure that the name on your Ultimate Rewards account matches the one on your loyalty program account. Additionally, make sure you have signed up for a loyalty program in advance, as transferring to a new account may also cause a delay.

How do you transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points to partners?

You can easily transfer Chase points online. First, log in to your Chase account and navigate to the Ultimate Rewards portal. In the "Travel" drop-down menu, select "Transfer points to partners" to access the main transfer page.

You will then see the list of transfer partners and any current transfer bonuses. Select your desired transfer partner, link your external account if you have not already done so, select the number of Ultimate Rewards points you wish to transfer and then submit the transfer.

Remember, Ultimate Rewards transfers cannot be reversed, so it's best to wait until you have a specific redemption in mind before transferring points.

Related: Chase Ultimate Rewards points: How to redeem for maximum value

What are the best Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer partners?

If you prefer to transfer your points to one of the 10 airline program partners, the best redemption options for you can vary depending on factors such as which airlines fly to and from the destinations you wish to visit and which airlines you prefer to travel on.

However, there are notable sweet spots with certain airline transfer options, especially those programs that have retained award charts.

Here are some of our favorite partners to book using Chase points.

Book a round-trip flight to Madrid via Iberia Club

Flying from the U.S. to Spain doesn't have to set you back thousands of dollars.

Round-trip, off-peak flights from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) will only set you back 32,000 Avios in basic economy, 59,000 Avios in premium economy and 81,000 Avios in business class, plus applicable taxes and fees, when you transfer your Chase points to Iberia Club, though the airline sometimes runs award discounts that can mean even cheaper seats.

Considering that most airlines charge at least 60,000 miles for a one-way business-class award to Europe, an off-peak business-class flight to and from Madrid booked via Iberia Club for just 32,000 Avios round-trip is excellent value.

Book flights to Hawaii via British Airways Club

Did you know that you can book American Airlines and Alaska Airlines flights with Chase points? Though the carriers' loyalty programs are not direct transfer partners of Chase, you can book flights on these airlines by transferring your Ultimate Rewards points to British Airways Club and then redeem British Airways Avios for award flights on its Oneworld partners.

Typically, you can find saver-level award space from American's and Alaska's West Coast gateways to various airports in Hawaii in economy for 44,000 Avios round-trip, or 22,000 Avios one-way, plus minimal taxes and fees.

Book lie-flat business-class seats to London via Virgin Atlantic Flying Club

Is London calling? Though Virgin Atlantic Flying Club prices its award seats dynamically, the loyalty program offers saver fares for low-demand travel dates. If you're flexible and come across availability, you could score lie-flat business-class seats from JFK to London's Heathrow Airport (LHR) for as few as 29,000 points with one recent deal, though note that taxes, fees and carrier-imposed surcharges of around $700 one-way are also payable.

If you're looking to be more thrifty with your hard-earned points, you can fly the exact same route in economy for as few as 6,000 points plus about $165 in taxes and fees, depending on the direction. You can use Virgin Atlantic's reward seat checker to find saver fares or an award booking platform like Seats.aero to search dates and prices.

However, be sure to confirm award availability with the airline prior to booking a seat.

Book a stay at a top-tier Hyatt hotel via World of Hyatt

You can also get great value from your Chase Ultimate Rewards points by transferring them to World of Hyatt. The hotel loyalty program offers a very appealing award chart, broken into 8 hotel categories and 5 rate tiers from Lowest to Top.

By transferring your Chase points to Hyatt, you can book some of the most luxurious Park Hyatt properties in the entire portfolio, including the Park Hyatt London River Thames, starting at 35,000 points per night during the Lowest dates.

Just remember that after the 4:3 rate for Chase to Hyatt transfers goes into effect, you'll need to transfer 47,000 Chase points to World of Hyatt to make that 35,000 point booking.

What are Chase Ultimate Rewards points worth?

TPG values Ultimate Rewards points at 2.05 cents apiece, per our June 2026 valuations, but you can find even more value by transferring points to airline and hotel partners.

However, you'll get different values for Chase points when you pursue other redemption options.

For example, since the addition of Points Boost, Ultimate Rewards points can be worth up to 2.5 cents per point on select Chase Travel℠ bookings if you hold the Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees) or the Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business℠ (see rates and fees).

You can receive up to 1.5 cents per point through the portal if you hold the Chase Sapphire Preferred or the Ink Business Preferred.

Related: Chase Points Boost: A valuable new redemption option or a disappointing devaluation?

How can you earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points?

You can earn Chase points depending on the specific Chase credit card you carry.

The following cards earn fully transferable Ultimate Rewards points:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve: Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
• Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business: Earn 200,000 bonus points after spending $30,000 on purchases in the first six months from account opening.
• Chase Sapphire Preferred Card: Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
• Ink Business Preferred Credit Card: Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

However, if you have an Ultimate Rewards points-earning card, you can effectively convert your cash-back rewards into Ultimate Rewards points, too. For this reason, having more than one Chase card can make sense to maximize your earning and redeeming potential.

Here are the four cash-back Chase cards that offer the opportunity to convert the cash-back rewards you earn into fully transferable Ultimate Rewards points as a cardholder of one of the above points-earning Chase cards:

• Chase Freedom Flex® (see rates and fees): Earn $200 cash back after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
• Chase Freedom Unlimited® (see rates and fees): Earn $200 cash back after spending $500 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.
• Ink Business Cash® Credit Card (see rates and fees): Earn $1,000 cash back after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first four months from account opening.
• Ink Business Unlimited® Credit Card (see rates and fees): Earn $1,000 cash back after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first four months from account opening.

Bottom line

If you value the flexibility of choosing from 10 airline partners and four hotel partners, Chase Ultimate Rewards is one of the best points programs out there.

In the age of no-notice devaluations by some loyalty programs, it is smart to earn Ultimate Rewards points via credit card welcome offers, category bonuses and everyday spending and then keep your points until you are ready to transfer and book with an airline or hotel partner, which is why earning Chase Ultimate Rewards points is an exceptionally savvy travel strategy.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees) has a strong reputation behind it, and for good reason. With strong earning rates, benefits that easily outweigh its $95 annual fee and access to Chase's 14 transfer partners, it's easy to see why this card is a great fit for both beginners and die-hard points and miles enthusiasts alike.

This card recently received a refresh. While one change might disappoint Hyatt fans, many cardholders will come out ahead thanks to the new perks and bonus categories.

That said, no card is a perfect fit for everyone. If you're looking for lounge access, elite status or high earning rates on general travel purchases, another card may be a better option. The Sapphire Preferred works best in the hands of flexible travelers who want an easy card to maximize.

Card rating*: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

*Card rating is based on the opinion of TPG's editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.

Chase Sapphire Preferred: The basics

Chase recently refreshed the Sapphire Preferred, adding additional perks to help cardholders justify its annual fee and a long-awaited gas and electric vehicle charging stations bonus category. If you're a prospective cardholder, you'll want to take note of these perks in particular when trying to decide if this card is worth it:

• Updated: Up to $100 statement credit each year for prepaid hotel bookings made through Chase Travel℠
• New: Statement credit for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or Nexus every four years
• New: Complimentary Apple TV subscription for one year (activate by Dec. 31)
• Complimentary DoorDash DashPass membership (valued at $120 each year; through Dec. 31, 2027; activation required)
• $10 DoorDash credit each month for non-restaurant orders for DashPass members (alcohol orders may be exempt; through Dec. 31, 2027)
• Updated: Bonus rewards on popular categories including gas, EV charging and seelct vacation homes
• Access to Chase's 14 transfer partners, including popular options like World of Hyatt, United Airlines and Air Canada Aeroplan
• 10% anniversary bonus points boost (expiring Oct. 1 for existing cardholders; this perk is not available for cardholders who applied on or after June 15)

It's important to note the one negative change that came with the Sapphire Preferred's refresh: The transfer ratio for World of Hyatt is dropping from 1:1 to 4:3. For existing cardholders, this change will go into effect on Oct. 1, while new cardholders who applied on or after June 15 will see it take effect immediately.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card — Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

As an existing Sapphire Preferred cardholder, one of my favorite parts of the refresh is what didn't change: the annual fee. It's common for issuers to raise annual fees when adding new benefits, so I was pleasantly surprised to see Chase keep the Sapphire Preferred at $95.

Chase Sapphire Preferred pros and cons

Chase Sapphire Preferred benefits

Before this refresh, I thought it was harder to justify the Sapphire Preferred's annual fee if you weren't already getting value from perks like DoorDash DashPass.

With its recent refresh, however, it's now one of the easiest cards to get more value out of than it charges each year for its annual fee.

Provided, of course, that you don't need to go out of your way to use its benefits.

I'm very pleased to see that the Chase Travel hotel credit has increased from up to $50 to up to $100 each cardholder anniversary year. I always found the previous $50 credit difficult to maximize, as it rarely made a meaningful dent in the cost of a hotel stay. At $100, this benefit feels much more useful and gives me far more confidence that I'll use it every year.

And, maximizing this credit will, on its own, put you $5 in the green against the Sapphire Preferred's annual fee.

The addition of a Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or Nexus statement credit is very welcome and aligns the Sapphire Preferred more closely with competitors like the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card. If you already have Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, you can always use your Sapphire Preferred credit to gift a membership to a friend, family member or other person. I recommend going with Global Entry, since you'll get TSA PreCheck as part of that program.

It's worth noting that the Sapphire Preferred is now one of the few cards with a sub-$100 annual fee to offer this benefit.

A one-year Apple TV subscription was a surprise addition from my perspective (activation required), but it makes sense given the Chase Sapphire Reserve®'s (see rates and fees) own Apple TV benefit (through June 22, 2027). Apple TV costs either $12.99 per month or $90 for the annual plan, so either way, you're saving a lot of money with this perk. Be sure to activate it by Dec. 31.

While I've been a fan of the Sapphire Preferred for a long time, I criticized it for its lack of meaningful benefits to warrant its annual fee when compared to mid-tier competitors like the Venture Rewards or even Chase's own United℠ Explorer Card (see rates and fees).

These additions significantly improve the Sapphire Preferred's value proposition.

How to earn and use your rewards

Earning rewards

With the Sapphire Preferred, you'll earn Ultimate Rewards points at the following rates:

• 5 points per dollar on all Chase Travel purchases, including flights, hotels, rental cars, vacation homes, cruises, activities and tours
• 5 points per dollar spent on Lyft rides (through Sept. 30, 2027)
• 5 points per dollar spent on eligible Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $150 (through Dec. 31, 2027; limit of 25,000 bonus points)
• NEW: 3 points per dollar spent on gas and EV charging
• NEW: 3 points per dollar spent on vacation homes at these top brands: Airbnb, Vrbo, Plum Guide, HomeAway, Homestay.com and Vacasa
• 3 points per dollar spent on dining, streaming services and online groceries*
• 2 points per dollar spent on all other travel
• 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases

*The elevated earning rate for online grocery store purchases excludes Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs.

A long-standing gap with the Sapphire Preferred, and Chase in general, was its lack of a bonus category for gas and EV charging stations. With gas prices skyrocketing and more people switching to electric cars, Chase made the right move by finally adding this category to the Sapphire Preferred.

TPG credit cards writer Stephanie Stevens called out the new vacation homes category as a big plus for her. She's booked over 60 Airbnbs, so there's plenty of opportunity for her to earn lots of bonus points with this new category.

I live in Portland, Oregon, a city with a strong mass transit system (by U.S. standards). That means I'm often swiping my Sapphire Preferred for transit tickets, so I'm glad that this card's general travel rewards category remains as broad as before. I've also previously used my Sapphire Preferred's general travel category to earn bonus points on a camping reservation and inter-city train bookings in Germany.

My remaining criticism of the Sapphire Preferred's earning categories is that its grocery category is still restricted to online orders only. Walmart, Target and wholesale stores are also excluded from this category, which is a major downside for me as a frequent Walmart shopper. Still, this is a relatively minor critique given that the card's overall earning structure is very strong for a $95 annual fee.

Redeeming rewards

You can redeem Ultimate Rewards points for a variety of options, including statement credits, gift cards, Amazon.com purchases and travel booked through Chase Travel.

The Sapphire Preferred includes access to Chase's Points Boost feature, which means you can redeem your points for up to 1.75 cents per point, depending on the redemption. While Points Boost can offer solid value in the right circumstances, I generally prefer transferring my points to Chase's airline and hotel partners, where I can often get significantly more value.

Speaking of transferring points, Chase offers 14 transfer partners, including World of Hyatt, United MileagePlus, Air Canada Aeroplan and Air France-KLM Flying Blue.

Personally, I transfer most of my Ultimate Rewards points to World of Hyatt. Last year, I transferred 87,500 Ultimate Rewards points to Hyatt to book 10 nights at different hotels across Germany, easily saving me hundreds of dollars.

However, Hyatt transfers will see some changes as part of the card's refresh. Beginning Oct. 1 for existing cardholders (and immediately for those who apply on or after June 15), transfers to World of Hyatt will move from a 1:1 ratio to a less favorable 4:3 ratio.

The switch will affect cardholders who frequently transfer points to Hyatt, like me, but Hyatt remains a compelling transfer partner thanks to its fixed award chart pricing. And with a deep roster of airline and hotel partners, Chase still offers plenty of opportunities for valuable redemptions.

For example, Stephanie recently transferred 32,000 Ultimate Rewards points from Chase to Air France for two economy flights from Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to Dulles International Airport (IAD) in September. She also paid $540 total in taxes and fees.

Thanks to a 20% Chase transfer bonus, she only needed 32,000 points instead of 38,000. The same flights would have cost $3,456 if purchased with cash.

Potential drawbacks of the Chase Sapphire Preferred

The Sapphire Preferred remains one of the best travel rewards cards for its annual fee, but it won't be the right fit for everyone.

Between the growing list of bonus categories, statement credits and partner perks, cardholders may need to pay closer attention to where and how they use the card to maximize its value. Those who prefer a simple set-it-and-forget-it rewards card may find the added complexity less appealing.

This card will provide the most value to people who travel regularly and redeem their rewards for travel. While Ultimate Rewards points can be redeemed for cash back, some of their greatest value comes from booking travel through the Chase Travel portal or transferring points to airline and hotel partners. If you don't expect to use either strategy, the Sapphire Preferred may be harder to justify.

The Sapphire Preferred is undoubtedly one of the strongest mid-tier cards, but as with any other card, it's important to make sure it fits your lifestyle and travel needs.

Sapphire Preferred vs. Sapphire Reserve

The Sapphire Preferred's equally well-known older sibling is the Chase Sapphire Reserve. This card charges a substantially higher $795 annual fee, but comes with a much wider array of perks, including:

• Up to $500 each year in credits for The Edit hotel stays (two up to $250 credits; minimum two-night stay required, must be prepaid)
• Up to $300 flexible travel credit
• Up to $300 each year in DoorDash credits, given as up to $25 monthly for non-restaurant orders (through Dec. 31, 2027)
• Up to $120 each year in Lyft credits, given as up to $10 monthly (through Sept. 30, 2027; does not apply to Wait & Save, bike or scooter rides)
• Priority Pass and Sapphire lounge access
• IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status (through Dec. 31, 2027)
• Higher earning rates on many travel purchases

You'll also still be able to transfer Ultimate Rewards points to Hyatt at a 1:1 ratio with this card. The Sapphire Reserve's higher annual fee won't make sense for everyone, but Hyatt loyalists may find the preserved 1:1 transfer ratio reason enough to consider it.

On the other hand, if a $795 annual fee is far beyond what you're comfortable paying for a credit card, the Sapphire Preferred's perks are generally easy to use and well worth the $95 annual fee.

To learn more, check out our showdown between the Sapphire Reserve and Sapphire Preferred.

When to apply for the Sapphire Preferred

Right now, new Sapphire Preferred cardholders can earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

According to TPG's June 2026 valuations, that welcome offer is worth $2,050.

Given that the Sapphire Preferred previously offered 75,000 bonus points for the same spending in the same time frame, this is a great offer. If you've been waiting for the right time to open this card, now's definitely that time.

Just keep in mind that you must be under 5/24 to be approved for the Sapphire Preferred. If you currently hold the Sapphire Preferred, previously held it or earned a welcome bonus on it in the past, you more than likely will not be eligible to earn another welcome bonus.

Other cards to consider if you don't want the Sapphire Preferred

If the Sapphire Preferred isn't matching what you're looking for, consider one of these options instead:

• If you want a card with simpler rewards: The Capital One Venture Rewards earns 5 miles per dollar spent on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, plus 2 miles per dollar spent on all other purchases. It's a simpler alternative to the Sapphire Preferred for the same $95 annual fee. To learn more, check out our full review of the Venture Rewards.
• If you want premium perks for an affordable price: The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is a great option to consider if the Sapphire Reserve is too expensive for you, but you still want more premium perks than the Sapphire Preferred offers. For a $395 annual fee, you'll receive lounge access, an annual $300 statement credit for Capital One Travel and 10,000 bonus miles. To learn more, check out our full review of the Venture X.
• If you want more flexible transfer partners: The Bilt Obsidian Card ($95 annual fee; see rates and fees) is a great option for travelers who value flexible rewards. Bilt Points can be transferred to a variety of airline and hotel partners, and the program continues to offer 1:1 transfers to World of Hyatt. To learn more, check out our full review of the Bilt Obsidian Card.

For additional options, check out our picks for the best travel cards.

Bottom line

The Sapphire Preferred earned its fame for an affordable annual fee and simple perks that fit anyone, regardless of their level of experience with rewards credit cards.

While the Hyatt transfer change is a downside of the latest refresh, I'm a big fan of the Sapphire Preferred's updated earning rates and new credits. For most travelers, this card is still a no-brainer.

Plus, if you apply now, you can earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first three months from account opening, a great offer considering the card's typical welcome offer.

Apply here: Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees) has long been one of the best travel rewards cards for beginners — and for good reason.

With strong earning rates on everyday spending, flexible Chase Ultimate Rewards points and a modest $95 annual fee, it delivers outsize value for beginners (as well as seasoned travelers). Plus, Chase just introduced several new earning rates and perks to the card, providing more value to cardholders without raising the annual fee.

Below, we'll break down its current bonus, ongoing perks and why the Sapphire Preferred continues to earn a spot in so many travelers' wallets.

Chase Sapphire Preferred current offer

New Sapphire Preferred cardholders can earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

According to our June 2026 valuations, this offer is worth up to $2,050.

This is a return of the highest offer we've seen in the card's history.

Now is an excellent time to get the Sapphire Preferred, since the welcome offer alone provides more than $2,000 in value thanks to its valuable transferable rewards.

Chase Ultimate Rewards points are among the most valuable transferable currencies available, thanks to a robust roster of airline and hotel partners and high-value redemption options.

Related: Best welcome offers of the month

Why you should apply for the Chase Sapphire Preferred

The Sapphire Preferred is well worth opening — and keeping beyond the first year, partly because it is easy to rack up points after you've spent the welcome bonus.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred has many generous bonus-earning categories. Plus, the card has recently announced two new bonus categories, along with an enhancement to its Chase Travel℠ category.

You'll earn:

• 5 points per dollar spent on all Chase Travel purchases, including flights, hotels, rental cars, vacation homes*, cruises, activities and tours
• 5 points per dollar spent on Lyft (through Sept. 30, 2027)
• 5 points per dollar spent on eligible Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $150 (through Dec. 31, 2027)
• NEW: 3 points per dollar spent on gas and electric vehicle charging
• NEW: 3 points per dollar spent on vacation homes booked with top brands^
• 3 points per dollar spent on dining
• 3 points per dollar spent on select streaming services
• 3 points per dollar spent on online groceries (excluding Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs)
• 2 points per dollar spent on all other travel purchases
• 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases

*New category
^Vacation home brands included in this category: Airbnb, Vrbo, Plum Guide, HomeAway, Homestay.com and Vacasa

The Sapphire Preferred has also increased its annual hotel statement credit, doubling it from $50 to $100. The credit can be used for prepaid hotel stays booked through Chase Travel and is available each account anniversary year.

New cardholders who apply on or after June 15 will no longer be eligible for the Sapphire Preferred's 10% annual points bonus.

However, new and current cardholders will receive two new perks:

• A one-year complimentary Apple TV subscription (when activated by Dec. 31)
• Up to $120 in statement credits for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck or Nexus every four years

Cardholders will also receive a complimentary DoorDash DashPass membership (a value of $120 per year) and a monthly $10 credit for eligible non-restaurant DoorDash purchases.

Additionally, Ultimate Rewards points can be transferred to multiple airline and hotel partners, including valuable programs such as Air Canada Aeroplan and Air France-KLM Flying Blue, at a 1:1 ratio.

It's important to note that Chase is reducing the World of Hyatt transfer ratio. If you apply on or after June 15, transfers to World of Hyatt will occur at a 4:3 ratio instead of 1:1, resulting in fewer Hyatt points for the same number of Ultimate Rewards points transferred. Existing cardholders and those who applied before June 15 can continue transferring at the 1:1 ratio until Oct. 1.

Despite the Hyatt transfer change, Ultimate Rewards points remain highly valuable thanks to Chase's airline and hotel partners, which can unlock aspirational business-class tickets or picturesque stays at island resorts for far less than their cash equivalent.

Related: Why I love my Chase Sapphire Preferred Card — and will always keep it in my wallet

Bottom line

The Sapphire Preferred remains one of the top travel rewards credit cards on the market. Its current 100,000-point welcome bonus matches the highest offer we've seen in the card's history, making now an excellent time to add it to your wallet.

Despite the Hyatt transfer devaluation, the Sapphire Preferred's latest changes to earning rates and statement credits are a net positive overall — especially considering its annual fee remains unchanged at $95.

It's no wonder so many TPG staffers continue to carry the Sapphire Preferred year after year. Given its easy-to-maximize perks, strong earning rates and valuable Ultimate Rewards points, it deserves a place in any traveler's wallet.

To learn more, read our full review of the Sapphire Preferred.

Apply now: Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Showing loyalty to Celebrity Cruises can get you some great rewards.

Like many frequent cruiser programs, Celebrity's Captain's Club loyalty program doesn't offer all that many truly valuable perks at its lower tiers. But as you rise through the status levels, you'll quickly reach a point where you're getting all sorts of discounts, freebies and special access perks — from complimentary laundry service (a real blessing on longer voyages) to savings at specialty restaurants and a standing invitation to a private breakfast lounge.

At the very top tier of the program, the Zenith level, the Celebrity Cruises Captain's Club also offers one of the truly spectacular rewards in the cruise loyalty program universe: a free cruise for two.

A few of the long-standing perks of the Captain's Club program (discounted internet and drink packages, for instance) aren't quite as valuable now that many Celebrity customers book the line's All Included cruise fares — a type of fare that didn't exist a few years ago. Still, these perks do have some value, particularly for those who book the line's lower-priced Cruise Only rates.

The discounts on internet service and drink packages that come with the various tiers noted below still can come in handy for those booking the All Included fares when upgrading to premium internet or drink packages on ships (which still come with extra charges). Additionally, with the addition of All Included fares to its fare structure, Celebrity did sweeten the entire loyalty program a bit by offering better spa and photo discount benefits at various tiers and by adding some onboard events for members.

Ways to earn points

The number of Captain's Club points you earn for cruises will vary greatly depending on both the length of the sailing and the type of cabin you book.

When staying in the most basic cabins, such as windowless inside cabins, you'll earn just 2 points for each night you sail. When staying in a top suite, by contrast, you can earn as many as 18 to 24 points per night.

Staying in balcony cabins, which the line calls Veranda cabins, will get you 3 points a night.

Here is a breakdown of the points you'll earn per night by cabin type:

• Inside cabins: 2 points
• Ocean View cabins: 2 points
• Veranda cabins: 3 points
• Infinite Veranda cabins: 3 points
• Concierge Class cabins: 5 points
• AquaClass cabins: 5 points
• Panoramic Ocean View, Deluxe Panoramic Ocean View, Panoramic with Infinite Veranda, Sky, Aqua Sky, Magic Carpet and Sunset Sky suites: 8 points
• Celebrity, Signature, Horizon and Royal suites: 12 points
• Reflection, Penthouse and Edge villas: 18 points
• Iconic suites: 24 points

As you can see, you'll earn far more points by staying in a suite than by staying in a less pricey regular cabin. The Captain's Club program is designed to reward Celebrity's biggest-spending customers the most.

Solo travelers can earn points even faster. If you're sailing alone and paying the full single supplement, you'll earn double the standard Club Points for that sailing — a meaningful shortcut to higher Captain's Club tiers.

In the Galapagos, where Celebrity operates one ship, the points you'll earn are different, too. Here you can earn 8 points per night for a Sky suite with Veranda, 12 points for Sky, Premium Sky and Ultimate Sky with Infinite Veranda suites and 18 points for the Royal Suite and Penthouse.

When Celebrity launches its first river cruise in 2027, the points you can earn will change again. Guests staying in River View and Infinity Balcony cabins will earn 8 points per night, while Balcony cabin guests will earn 12 points per night. Travelers booked in Skylight Infinite Balcony and Vista Balcony suites will earn 18 points per night.

There's also one more way to earn Captain's Club points. Celebrity has an additional program called Power Up Points that allows Captain's Club members to earn bonus points by filling out online surveys, participating on social media or booking specific promotions.

Related: The ultimate guide to Celebrity Cruises ships and itineraries

Taking part in such activities will get you Power Up Points, which then can be converted into Captain's Club points at a ratio of 10 to 1. For every 10 Power Up Points you earn, you'll receive 1 additional Captain's Club point.

If you want to play along, be sure to subscribe to Celebrity's email list so you get notified about Power Up Points activities. You can start the process by visiting the website. If you're already a Captain's Club member, click on the "Subscribe for Emails" button. If you're not yet a member, click the "Enroll Now" button.

Celebrity Captain's Club levels and benefits

There are six tiers to the Captain's Club program:

• Preview (at 0 points)
• Classic (2 to 149 points)
• Select (150 to 299 points)
• Elite (300 to 749 points)
• Elite Plus (750 to 2,999 points)
• Zenith (3,000 points or more)

The good news here is that you can be recognized at the program's first tier (Preview) before you even take a single cruise. All you have to do is sign up for the program. At the Preview level, you gain access to the online Captain's Club newsletter and the Loyalty Desk service center between cruises. You also can book Captain's Club promotions once you're on board your first cruise.

The next level up, Classic, brings:

• Exclusive Captain's Club offers
• One precruise category upgrade to AquaClass (based on availability)
• An invitation to a Captain's Club welcome party
• One complimentary specialty coffee when you dine at a specialty restaurant
• One free scoop of gelato
• A 10% discount on any bottle of wine
• A 10% discount on a Premium drink package upgrade when purchased precruise only
• A 10% discount on a drink package when purchased precruise
• A 10% discount on Wi-Fi packages and upgrades, and complimentary premium minutes
• A 25% discount on any digital or print photo package
• A 10% discount on The Studio photo package
• 10% off one-time use laundry service
• A 10% discount at the spa
• Various casino perks
• A 5% discount on small-group Discovery shore excursions
• A 5% discount on Hollywood Hot Glass (available on select ships)

The Select tier adds bigger discounts on internet and photo packages (25% and 30% off, respectively), as well as the purchase of a single bottle of wine (15%). You'll also get an invitation to a wine tasting and a backstage tour on the ship, a discounted price for one standard bag of laundry (wash, dry and fold) if your cruise is 12 nights or longer and two complimentary pressed items.

Related: Cruise line loyalty program guide: How to earn perks with the biggest brands

Reaching the Classic level takes just one cruise, no matter what type of cabin you book. Reaching the Select level can also take just one cruise if it's a longer sailing and you're staying in a top suite. However, if you're a more typical cruiser sailing a seven-night trip in a standard balcony cabin (worth 3 points a night), you would need to take eight cruises to reach the Select level.

The elite level that makes a difference

Being loyal to Celebrity really starts paying off when you reach the Elite and Elite Plus levels.

One of the great perks of Elite status is gaining access to the Captain's Club Elite Continental Breakfast, where you can enjoy a coffeehouse-style breakfast each morning. This is a particularly big deal on shore excursion days, as it means you have a relatively quiet and uncrowded place to grab a quick breakfast before heading out for a tour.

Related: The 4 types of Celebrity Cruises ships, explained

Elite members also get unlimited free drinks from the Captain's Club menu each day, excluding embarkation day, between 5 and 7 p.m. at most bars and lounges on the ship. All you have to do is present your SeaPass card. As noted above, this isn't quite the perk it used to be since a basic drink package is included with many bookings now as part of the line's relatively new All Included fare tier.

If you're sailing on a Solstice Class or Millennium Class vessel, reaching the Elite tier will get you free access to the Persian Garden spa zones — home to steam rooms, saunas and heated loungers — on one port day of your choice.

Elite level also brings:

• Priority tender service, where available
• Access to a private lounge on departure day serving continental breakfast
• An invitation to a senior officer party
• An invitation to a Create & Pour event on Edge Class ships
• An invitation to a Music & Mixology event
• A higher 20% discount on a bottle of wine
• A higher 30% discount on Wi-Fi packages and upgrades, plus 90 complimentary stream minutes
• A higher 15% discount on drink packages
• A higher 40% discount on a digital or print photo package
• A higher 20% discount on The Studio photo packages
• One complimentary dry clean item
• One bag of complimentary laundry
• A higher 15% discount at the ship's spa

Elite Plus kicks things up by offering many of these same benefits plus another free bag of laundry, additional discounts for onboard services (including a 15% discount on specialty dining cover charges) and free cappuccinos, lattes, espressos and tea throughout your sailing.

In an upgrade to the program announced this June, Celebrity added five new milestone levels that bridge the gap between the Elite Plus and Zenith tiers – and reward you once you reach Zenith.

Elite Plus members at 1,500 points will get:

• 480 minutes of premium Wi-Fi
• 20% off specialty dining
• One complimentary photo
• A surprise in-room amenity

At 2,250 points, Elite Plus members will get:

• 720 minutes of premium Wi-Fi
• 25% off specialty dining
• Two complimentary photos
• A surprise in-room amenity
• Access to Extend Your Stay (where available), Celebrity's late check-out program that lets you stay onboard after the standard disembarkation time.

You can reach the Elite and Elite Plus levels in just a few cruises if you're partial to the longer sailings Celebrity offers and you stay in top suites. For a more typical cruiser who sails a seven-night trip in a standard balcony cabin, it would take 15 sailings to reach the Elite level and a whopping 36 sailings to reach the Elite Plus level.

Best Celebrity Captain's Club elite benefit

The ultimate perk for Captain's Club members comes when you reach the top Zenith tier. You'll get a free seven-night Bermuda or Caribbean cruise in a balcony cabin. Yep, that's right: a free cruise. Not bad, right?

Of course, you'll need 3,000 points to reach the Zenith tier — a number so high it's out of reach for most cruisers. For someone who always stays in balcony cabins and prefers seven-night sailings, it would take an almost inconceivable 143 cruises to reach the Zenith tier. Put another way, you'd have to spend 1,000 days at sea with Celebrity to hit the Zenith mark.

Related: Everything you need to know about Celebrity Cruises cabins and suites

Still, for those who always stay in top suites, getting to Zenith after just a few years of heavy cruising is not out of the question. For those travelers in Penthouse and Reflection suites, it would require 167 days at sea. Take a few long sailings of 20 or 30 days, and you'll be well on your way.

Once you hit the Zenith level, you'll get another free Bermuda or Caribbean cruise after every 3,000 points you accumulate. And the reward gets richer over time. Your second free cruise will come with an upgrade to an AquaClass cabin, while your third (and any others you accrue after that) will be in a Sky Suite — unlocking an even longer list of suite perks.

In offering its top-tier Captain's Club members free cruises, Celebrity is in the company of just a handful of other lines — most notably Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line.

The Zenith tier also brings several other big-deal perks. For example, you'll get priority seating in ship theaters and a 35% discount on specialty dining along with three complimentary photos and a surprise in-room amenity on the milestone sailing.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Celebrity Cruises ship

Zenith members also enjoy a bevy of freebies, such as laundry, automatic premium beverage upgrades and automatic premium internet upgrades. Round that out with discounts on spa services (20% off) and photo packages (50% off), as well as nice little touches such as upgraded bath amenities in your cabin, and you can see why it pays to attain Celebrity's top status.

On top of this, Celebrity has added additional points milestones once you reach Zenith that unlock even more perks.

A "Double Zenith" milestone at 6,000 points gives you a complimentary specialty lunch on embarkation day on every sailing, a specialty dinner during the milestone sailing and a bottle of Champagne to celebrate the achievement.

At 9,000 points — a milestone Celebrity calls "Triple Zenith" — you'll receive a complimentary specialty lunch on any day of every sailing, a specialty dinner during the milestone sailing and a bottle of Champagne, along with the upgraded Sky Suite cruise reward.

As is often the case with cruise line loyalty programs, Celebrity customers do not have to requalify for status each year. Captain's Club members keep their points at the end of each year and continue to accrue points indefinitely. This means that someone who hits Zenith status will remain at that top-tier level forever (or until Celebrity makes a change to the program).

Such "forever status" is one of the great allures of cruise line frequent cruiser programs. By contrast, many airline frequent flyer programs require loyalty members to requalify for status each year.

Earning points with sister cruise brands 

One of the newest benefits of Celebrity's Captain's Club program is Points Choice, which launched in January 2026.

The program allows you to earn loyalty credit on sailings with Celebrity, Royal Caribbean and Silversea Cruises, then choose which of the three loyalty programs receives that credit. In practical terms, it means you can try one of Celebrity's sister brands without sacrificing progress toward Captain's Club status.

For example, a loyal Celebrity cruiser could take a Royal Caribbean or Silversea voyage and still have the loyalty credit applied to their Captain's Club account. Likewise, Captain's Club members interested in building status with Royal Caribbean's Crown & Anchor Society or Silversea's Venetian Society can direct their cruise credit to those programs instead.

If you don't make a selection, the credit automatically remains with the brand you sailed. Members must already be enrolled in the loyalty program they want to receive the credit. The exchange rates vary by cabin category and are published annually.

Matching status with sister cruise brands

One other notable perk of Celebrity's Captain's Club loyalty program is that members get matching status in the loyalty programs at Royal Caribbean and Silversea Cruises, which are both sister brands. The matching status you get in each program depends on your tier. Members at the Elite level of the Celebrity Cruises Captain's Club loyalty program, for instance, will enjoy membership at the Diamond level of Royal Caribbean's Crown & Anchor Society program.

Diamond status in Royal Caribbean's loyalty program brings valuable benefits, such as a priority waitlist for shore excursions and spa services, access to an exclusive Diamond Club on select ships, access to an exclusive nightly Diamond event and a complimentary entertainment tour.

Related: Your Royal Caribbean loyalty status just got a lot more valuable

Members at the Elite level of the Celebrity Cruises Captain's Club loyalty program will match into the third tier of Silversea's Venetian Society loyalty program, known as the 250 VS Days tier.

Note that as of Feb. 1, 2023, Celebrity Elite members no longer can get matching status when sailing with Azamara, a former sister brand. Nor will Celebrity Elite members get points in the Captain's Club program when sailing on Azamara ships.

Bottom line

Celebrity has one of the better cruise line loyalty programs. Like many others, it's a bit stingy on the truly valuable perks at its lower tiers. As you rise through the six levels, though, you'll quickly reach a point where your status gets you a lot of interesting perks, discounts and freebies.

We're especially fond of the access to a private breakfast lounge that comes with Elite status. There's nothing like having your own private hideaway in the morning. And, of course, nothing competes with the free cruise benefit that comes with top-tier Zenith status.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

If you have the Chase Freedom Flex® (see rates and fees) or legacy Chase Freedom®* in your wallet, take note: Chase has announced Q3's upcoming categories.

From July 1 through Sept. 30, you can earn 5% cash back (or 5 points per dollar spent) on electric vehicle charging, gas stations, select live entertainment, transit and United Way. Keep in mind that you must activate your categories by Sept. 14 to earn at these rates (on up to $1,500 in combined spending across these categories; then 1% back or 1 point per dollar spent).

Here's what you need to know about this upcoming quarter's categories.

Last chance: Activate your Chase Freedom Q3 categories

*This card is no longer available to new applicants. The information for the Chase Freedom has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Chase Freedom Q3 2026 categories

From July 1 - Sept. 30, Freedom and Freedom Flex cardholders can earn 5% cash back (or 5 points per dollar spent) on up to $1,500 in combined purchases across these bonus categories (then 1% back or 1 point per dollar spent):

• EV charging and gas stations
• Select live entertainment
• Transit
• United Way

Gas, EV charging and select live entertainment all appear regularly as quarterly categories, but this is the first time we've seen public transit and United Way appear.

Activate this quarter's categories now to unlock their bonus-earning potential once Q3 starts. You must activate by Sept. 14.

It's simple to complete this process through your Chase account; just provide your last name, the last four digits of your card and your ZIP code.

Analyzing the Q3 bonus categories

With gas prices remaining high and many people choosing to switch to electric vehicles, it's nice to see gas and EV charging stations return as bonus categories for this upcoming quarter. Select live entertainment has appeared in Q3 every year since 2022, aligning with summer and early fall as popular times for concerts, festivals and sporting events.

Chase now has a pattern of offering a select charity as a bonus category each quarter. This time, nonprofit charity network United Way is its choice.

Here are the details:

• Gas and EV charging: If you own a car or frequently rent cars when you travel, you should easily be able to get a lot of value out of this frequently appearing category.
• Select live entertainment: Q3 is the time to book concerts, festivals and sporting events if you haven't already. It's difficult to find cards that offer substantial bonus rewards on live entertainment, so take advantage of this category while you can. In addition, consider stacking this category with bonuses from sites like Rakuten and Rove.
• Public transit: Whether you live in a city with a solid transit system or plan to travel to a place with one, this category means your eligible Freedom card will be the best choice to swipe with in Q3 every time you ride. Chase's transit category is quite wide, so even tolls and parking garages will earn bonus rewards.
• United Way: United Way is a network of local nonprofits across the world that aim to tackle problems that directly impact the communities they serve. If you have a United Way nonprofit in your area, you can earn bonus rewards on your charitable contributions in Q3.

Remember that Chase limits the 5% cash back (or 5 points per dollar spent) you can earn to the first $1,500 spent in combined bonus categories each quarter. After you reach the maximum, you'll earn 1% back (or 1 point per dollar spent) on these purchases.

Chase Freedom rotating categories history

Chase Freedom bonus categories FAQs

How do rotating categories work?

Each quarter, Chase announces a group of bonus categories that will earn 5% cash back (or 5 points per dollar) throughout the upcoming three-month period (on up to $1,500 in combined spending each quarter).

Generally, these categories are announced halfway through the month before the new quarter starts to give cardmembers time to activate new categories beforehand. However, you can activate your categories until midway through the last month of the quarter.

The categories tend to repeat periodically. For instance, grocery stores, restaurants and gas stations are all common categories you'll notice frequently pop up on the bonus calendar. So, depending on the categories and whether you can maximize them, these two cards can offer quite a nice chunk of cash back or bonus points over the year.

How much cash back can I earn each quarter?

Chase limits the 5% cash back (or 5 points per dollar) to the first $1,500 spent in combined bonus categories each quarter you activate the bonus.

While that may not sound like a lot, that cash back adds up over time. Maximizing the cash-back categories each quarter, you'll earn $75 in cash back quarterly and up to $300 per year. For a no-annual-fee credit card, that's a lot of value.

Alternatively, suppose you have a card that earns transferable Chase Ultimate Rewards points, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees). In that case, you can combine the rewards from your Chase Freedom or Freedom Flex card with those you earn from your more premium Ultimate Rewards-earning card. By doing this, your rewards become fully transferable.

If you combine rewards this way, your $300 in bonus cash back would be worth 30,000 Ultimate Rewards points. TPG's March 2026 valuations peg Chase points at 2.05 cents apiece, making the 30,000 points you can earn in a year worth $615.

How do I activate my 5% categories each quarter?

You can head to Chase's site to activate your 5% cash back (or 5 points per dollar) categories for this quarter. You can also register through the Chase mobile app.

Here's how to register:

1. Head to the Chase bonus activation page, or log into your Chase account.

2. Enter your last name, the last four digits of your card number and your billing ZIP code. If you don't have your card on hand, log in to your Chase account to retrieve these digits.

3. Click "Activate your 5%" to register.

4. If you have multiple Chase Freedom cards, make sure to register each one.

5. Save a screenshot of your activation in case of any issues later, though you should also receive a "You're Activated!" confirmation email.

Can I have both the Chase Freedom and the Chase Freedom Flex to double my earning potential?

Yes, you can have both cards. So, if you already have the Chase Freedom and want to add the Chase Freedom Flex to your wallet, you're free to do so.

Remember that the original Freedom card is no longer open to new applicants. If you'd rather only have one, though, the Freedom Flex is available as a product change.

Of course, you'll also want to ensure you're eligible for a new Chase card.

How do I maximize my Freedom and Freedom Flex cards?

The most important thing is to activate your card to earn 5% cash back (or 5 points per dollar) each quarter in the specific categories and then use your card for purchases in those categories.

You can set up a recurring reminder in your calendar or sign up for the TPG newsletter. (We send out a reminder when it's time to activate every quarter, plus tips and tricks for how to maximize your card strategy and score some excellent award redemptions.)

In addition to the rotating bonus categories, the Freedom Flex accrues 5% cash back on all other travel booked through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases, 3% cash back on dining (including eligible delivery services) and 1% unlimited cash back on all other purchases.

Better yet, when paired with a Chase credit card that earns fully transferable Ultimate Rewards points, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees) or the Chase Sapphire Preferred, the Chase Freedom Flex's 5% cash back effectively becomes 5 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar. You can learn all about this in our guide detailing the "Chase Trifecta".

Bottom line

If you're a Chase Freedom or Freedom Flex cardholder, you'll earn 5% cash back (or 5 points per dollar spent) on electric vehicle charging, gas stations, select live entertainment, transit and United Way from July 1 through Sept. 30.

Activate these categories before Sept. 14 so you don't miss out on any bonus rewards. And remember that Chase limits your quarterly bonus category earnings to the first $1,500 of combined spending each quarter.

To learn more, read our full review of the Chase Freedom Flex.

Apply here: Chase Freedom Flex

Great news — the best-ever offer for the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees) is back.

For a limited time, new Sapphire Preferred cardholders can earn a very impressive 100,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

This rare offer is a full 25,000 points higher than the standard offer we've seen in recent months. To put some real numbers to it, TPG values 100,000 Chase points at over $2,000 based on our June 2026 valuations when maximized with Chase's transfer partners.

Combined with the card's recent refresh and new benefits, this is easily one of the most compelling rewards card offers currently available.

Here's what you need to know about this limited-time offer.

A 100,000-point offer for the Sapphire Preferred is rare

The Chase Sapphire Preferred was first introduced in 2009, and the 100k welcome bonus offer has only appeared three times in the 17 years since its launch: first in 2021, then in 2025 and now again in 2026.

While six-figure welcome bonuses have become more common across the credit card industry, they're typically attached to business cards or premium cards with much higher annual fees or loyalty currencies that TPG values less highly.

That's what makes this offer stand out.

The Sapphire Preferred carries a modest $95 annual fee, yet awards Chase Ultimate Rewards points — one of the most valuable and flexible rewards currencies available.

Based on TPG's valuations, 100,000 Chase points are worth approximately $2,050 due to the variety of high-value ways to redeem them, making this one of the strongest welcome bonus values we've seen this year, especially on a card with a low annual fee.

Who is eligible for the 100,000-point Chase Sapphire Preferred bonus?

For many, the 100,000-point question will be who is eligible for the limited-time bonus.

Generally speaking:

• You can't earn the Sapphire Preferred's bonus if you've previously received a welcome bonus on the Sapphire Preferred.
• Chase may also consider factors such as your overall card history and the number of cards you've opened or closed recently.
• You need to be under the issuer's 5/24 rule, which states that applicants who have opened 5 or more cards in the past 24 months are likely to be denied.

However, due to a relatively recent change, you can have the Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees) and still be eligible for the Chase Sapphire Preferred.

Here's a full look at who is eligible for the Chase Sapphire Preferred.

What can you do with 100,000 Chase points?

The real appeal of this offer isn't just the size of the bonus — it's what you can do with the points.

And one of the main reasons for that is that Chase not only offers solid ways to use points within its own ecosystem (such as Points Boost), but also has valuable transfer partners, including United MileagePlus, Air Canada Aeroplan, Air France-KLM Flying Blue and World of Hyatt.

With these transfer partners, you can get outsized value from your Chase points.

A few examples you could book with 100,000 bonus Chase points include:

• Europe in Business Class: Fly to Europe in business class on United Airlines via United MileagePlus or Air Canada Aeroplan from around 80,000 miles (plus taxes and fees) each way, or book via Air France or KLM starting at 60,000 Flying Blue miles (plus taxes and fees).
• Multiple domestic flights: Take six to ten domestic economy flights (book via United, Aeroplan or Flying Blue to fly on United or Delta Air Lines).
• Hyatt stays: Stay at Hyatt properties around the world, starting at 15,000 Hyatt points for hotels such as the Hyatt Place Moab or Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress near Disney World or 25,000 World of Hyatt points for higher-end resorts such as the dreamy Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa.

Prefer simplicity? The 100,000-point bonus is still worth at least $1,000 toward travel booked through Chase Travel℠ at a fixed value of 1 cent per point — and potentially up to $1,500 via Points Boost. That's a strong floor value even if you never transfer points to airline or hotel partners.

Related: Chase Points Boost: A valuable new redemption option or a disappointing devaluation?

Is the Chase Sapphire Preferred still one of the best rewards cards?

Just a few days ago, Chase announced some changes for the Chase Sapphire Preferred, including an increase in the annual hotel credit, new 3 points per dollar bonus categories and that the transfer ratio to Hyatt is changing from 1:1 to 4:3.

That means to book a 15,000-point hotel as mentioned above within the World of Hyatt ecosystem, you'd now need to transfer 20,000 Chase points if you're a new cardholder. (Cardholders prior to June 15, 2026, have access to the 1:1 transfer rate until Oct. 1, 2026.)

The Hyatt transfer ratio change makes some hotel redemptions more expensive than before. However, Chase Ultimate Rewards points remain highly flexible thanks to a deep roster of airline and hotel transfer partners, so you have lots of options when it comes time to book a trip.

Here are some additional new elements to the Sapphire Preferred:

• Increased travel credit: Annual hotel credit for reservations booked through Chase Travel increased from $50 to $100, more than offsetting the $95 annual fee.
• New Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS credit: Cardmembers will receive one statement credit of up to $120 every four years when the application fee is charged to the card.
• New bonus-earning rates: You can now earn 3 points per dollar on gas, EV charging and vacation home rentals booked on Airbnb, Vrbo, Plum Guide, HomeAway, Homestay.com and Vacasa.
• Built-in travel protections expanded: The card now offers emergency evacuation and transportation coverage.

So, yes, there's no doubt that the Sapphire Preferred remains a top travel rewards card both as the perfect starting place for those newer to points and miles and those who simply want to keep things easy and affordable on a card with excellent earning bonus categories, built-in perks and redemption options, all with just a $95 annual fee.

In fact, for those who don't utilize the Hyatt transfer option — or who also have the Chase Sapphire Reserve that is maintaining the 1:1 ratio — the Sapphire Preferred has never been better.

Related: 7 Chase Sapphire Preferred benefits you might not know about

Should you apply for the 100,000-point Chase Sapphire Preferred offer?

It's very rare to see a welcome offer this large on a card with just a $95 annual fee.

While several cards currently offer six-figure bonuses right now, most come with substantially higher annual fees or less valuable rewards currencies.

When the dust settles with some recent Hyatt changes, it's possible that Chase points from the Sapphire Preferred will be worth a little bit less than before, but they will still be one of the most valuable types of points to exist.

And since the 100,000-point Sapphire Preferred offer has historically appeared only briefly before disappearing again, if you want to get this incredible bonus, I'd absolutely recommend applying sooner rather than later.

Related: Is the Chase Sapphire Preferred worth the annual fee? I say yes

Bottom line

There's no guarantee Chase will keep this limited-time offer around for very long, and between the size of the bonus, the card's low annual fee and the recent benefit refresh, this is shaping up to be one of the most compelling credit card offers of 2026.

So, if you're eligible to earn the 100,000 bonus points and are ready to add to your points piggy bank, this is the moment you've been waiting for.

To learn more, read our full review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred.

Limited-time offer on the Chase Sapphire Preferred: Earn 100,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card strikes a balance between airline perks and elite-status benefits.

While it doesn't include Delta Sky Club access, it offers several valuable features that can easily justify its $350 annual fee (see rates and fees), including a yearly companion certificate, free checked bags, statement credits and a path toward Delta Medallion status.

The card is best suited for business owners who fly Delta multiple times per year and can consistently take advantage of its airline-specific perks. If you're loyal to Delta but don't need lounge access, the Delta Platinum Business Amex may be the sweet spot in the airline's business card lineup. Card rating*: ⭐⭐⭐½

*Card rating is based on the opinion of TPG's editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.

Delta Platinum Business Amex: The basics

The Delta Platinum Business Amex offers an impressive suite of benefits. Here are some of the card's key details:

• Annual fee: $350
• Best for: Frequent Delta business travelers who want airline perks and help earning Medallion status.
• Rewards structure: Ability to earn bonus miles on Delta purchases, hotels worldwide, eligible transit, U.S. shipping and single purchases of $5,000 or more, plus miles on all other eligible purchases
• Key benefits: Annual companion certificate after renewal, first checked bag free on flights worldwide and second checked bag free on U.S. domestic flights, Zone 5 of 8 priority boarding, 15% off Delta-operated award flights through TakeOff 15 and annual Delta Stays and ride-hailing statement credits
• Rewards currency: Delta SkyMiles, best redeemed for Delta flights and partner award travel

Unlike flexible business rewards cards, the Delta Platinum Business Amex earns Delta SkyMiles directly. That means you'll get the most value if Delta is your airline of choice and you regularly redeem SkyMiles for award travel.

Delta Platinum Business Amex pros and cons

Delta Platinum Business Amex benefits

Even without free lounge access, the Delta Platinum Business has many features that make it a worthwhile consideration for regular Delta business flyers.

Annual companion certificate

The annual companion certificate is arguably the card's most valuable perk.

Each year after renewing your card, you'll receive a companion certificate valid for a round-trip Main Cabin ticket. The certificate can be used on flights to all 50 U.S. states, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America.

For many cardholders, this benefit alone can offset most (or even all) of the annual fee.

I generally view companion certificates as one of the strongest benefits offered by airline credit cards because they provide straightforward, tangible value without requiring complicated redemption strategies.

TPG director of partnerships Sophia Fen says the annual companion pass is one reason why she continues to carry the card: "My favorite perks are the annual companion pass and 15% off award travel. Having Resy and ride-hailing benefits are also an added bonus that I often forget about until I see the credits, which is always a nice surprise!"

Free checked bags and priority boarding

Cardmembers receive their first checked bag free on Delta-operated flights worldwide and a second checked bag free on domestic Delta flights.

The benefit extends to up to eight additional travelers on the same reservation.

You'll also receive Zone 5 priority boarding, helping you secure overhead bin space before general boarding begins.

For business travelers who fly Delta regularly, these benefits can save hundreds of dollars per year while making the airport experience more convenient.

Medallion status benefits

The Delta Platinum Business Amex offers several ways for cardholders to earn Delta Medallion status.

Cardmembers receive:

• 2,500 MQDs automatically each calendar year
• 1 MQD for every $20 spent on the card

These benefits can significantly reduce the amount of flying needed to reach elite status.

For business owners who put meaningful spending on their cards, I think this is one of the card's strongest advantages compared to lower-tier Delta cards.

Save 15% on Delta award flights

Through Delta's TakeOff 15 benefit, cardmembers receive a 15% discount on the number of miles required for Delta-operated award flights when booking through through delta.com or the Fly Delta app and paying taxes and fees on the card.

If you redeem SkyMiles frequently, this perk can save thousands of miles over the course of a year.

Statement credits

The card includes several statement credits that can help offset its annual fee:

• Delta Stays statement credit: Receive up to $200 back annually on eligible prepaid Delta Stays bookings.
• Resy statement credit: Receive up to $120 annually in statement credits per calendar year (up to $10 monthly) at U.S. Resy restaurants.
• Ride-hailing statement credit: Receive up to $120 annually in statement credits with select U.S. ride-hailing providers (up to $10 monthly).

Enrollment is required for select benefits.

Global Entry, TSA PreCheck and other travel perks

Additional benefits include:

• Global Entry fee credit every four years (up to $120) or TSA PreCheck fee credit (up to $85)
• Complimentary Hertz Five Star status, a mid-tier elite status. (Enrollment in the Hertz Gold+ Rewards Program is required.)
• 20% back on eligible Delta inflight purchases
• Complimentary upgrades after Medallion members when available

These perks may not justify the annual fee on their own, but together they create a stronger overall value proposition.

Related: How to maximize the statement credits on the Delta Amex cards

How to earn and use your rewards

Earning Delta SkyMiles

With the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business Amex, you'll earn:

• 3 miles per dollar spent on eligible Delta purchases and directly with hotels worldwide
• 1.5 miles per dollar spent on eligible transit purchases, U.S. shipping purchases and on single eligible purchases of $5,000 or more (up to $100,000 in combined purchases annually, then 1 mile per dollar spent)
• 1 mile per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases

I especially like the elevated earnings on purchases over $5,000, which isn't a benefit you'll find on many airline business cards. Good Businesses that regularly make large inventory, equipment or operating purchases may find it easier to rack up SkyMiles than they would with other Delta cards.

That said, if your primary goal is maximizing rewards on everyday spending, there are business cards that offer more flexible rewards and stronger earning rates.

Redeeming Delta SkyMiles

The best way to use your Delta SkyMiles is typically for flights on Delta and its airline partners.

Because Delta uses dynamic pricing, award costs can vary significantly based on route, travel dates and demand. While that can make it harder to predict redemption values, there are still excellent deals available.

I particularly like using SkyMiles for Delta SkyMiles Deals, which frequently offer discounted award flights throughout the U.S., Europe and other international destinations.

For example, TPG principal spokesperson Clint Henderson recently redeemed 182,700 SkyMiles for a Delta One itinerary from Tokyo's Haneda Airport (HND) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and onward to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) — a ticket that would have cost several thousand dollars if purchased with cash.

You can also redeem SkyMiles on SkyTeam partners and other partner airlines, including Air France, Virgin Atlantic, Korean Air and WestJet.

These partner redemptions can occasionally provide better value than Delta-operated flights.

While Delta also allows members to redeem miles for seat upgrades, Sky Club memberships, merchandise and gift cards, I generally don't recommend these options because they provide significantly less value than flight redemptions.

Related: How to redeem your Delta SkyMiles for maximum value

Potential drawbacks of the Delta Platinum Business Amex

The biggest drawback of the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business Amex is its $350 annual fee.

While the card offers enough benefits to justify that fee for many frequent Delta travelers, occasional flyers may struggle to extract enough value year after year.

Unlike the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card, the Platinum Business version does not include Delta Sky Club access. If lounge access is important to your travel experience, you may find the Reserve card worth the additional cost.

Additionally, the card earns Delta SkyMiles rather than flexible transferable rewards. That means you're committing yourself to Delta's loyalty program rather than maintaining flexibility across multiple airlines.

Finally, while the card offers useful bonus categories, most everyday spending earns just 1 mile per dollar spent, making it less compelling as a primary spending card.

Delta Platinum Business Amex vs. Delta Gold Business Amex

If you're considering the Delta Platinum Business Amex, you should also take a look at the Delta SkyMiles® Gold Business American Express Card.

The Gold Business card carries a lower annual fee of $150 ($0 introductory annual fee the first year; see rates and fees) and still includes valuable Delta perks such as:

• First checked bag free
• Second checked bag free on domestic Delta flights
• Priority boarding
• TakeOff 15 award flight discounts

However, the Platinum Business card adds several benefits that frequent Delta travelers may find worthwhile, including:

• Annual companion certificate
• MQD headstart
• MQD earning through spending
• Additional statement credits
• Complimentary upgrades when available

For occasional Delta travelers, I think the Gold Business card is often the better value. But for travelers actively pursuing Medallion status or looking to maximize Delta-specific perks, the Platinum Business card is likely worth the additional annual fee.

Is the Delta Platinum Business Amex worth it?

For small-business owners and frequent Delta flyers, yes.

I think the annual companion certificate is the card's strongest offering because it can easily offset much of the annual fee when used strategically. Add in free checked bags, priority boarding, TakeOff 15 discounts and the card's Medallion-status benefits, and the value proposition becomes even stronger.

That said, if you don't fly Delta several times a year, the fee may be hard to justify. The lack of Sky Club access is also a significant drawback compared to premium alternatives, especially for travelers who value lounge access.

When to apply for the Delta Platinum Business Amex

New cardmembers can earn 100,000 bonus miles after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership. Offer available until July 15.

Based on TPG's June 2026 valuations, which value Delta SkyMiles at 1.2 cents apiece, this offer is worth approximately $1,200.

Before applying, it's worth comparing the current offer against the card's historical welcome bonuses.

Like other American Express cards, the Delta Platinum Business Amex is subject to Amex's once-per-lifetime welcome offer policy. If you've previously had this card, you may not be eligible for the bonus again.

American Express may also consider your overall relationship with the issuer when determining welcome offer eligibility.

Related: Current Delta card welcome bonuses

Other cards to consider if you don't want the Delta Platinum Business Amex

Some other cards may be a better fit if you're looking for a low annual fee or airport lounge access.

• If you want flexible rewards for everyday business spending: The American Express® Business Gold Card earns Membership Rewards points that can be transferred to Delta SkyMiles and other airline and hotel partners. It also offers bonus rewards in select business spending categories, making it a better fit for business owners looking to maximize everyday expenses rather than airline-specific perks. While it doesn't include benefits like a companion certificate, free checked bags or Delta-specific statement credits, it provides significantly more redemption flexibility. To learn more, read our full review of the Amex Business Gold Card.
• If you want Delta Sky Club access: The Delta Reserve Business Amex has a higher annual fee of $650 (see rates and fees) but comes with lounge access (subject to restrictions). You'll also get perks like an annual companion certificate, a free first checked bag worldwide and a second checked bag free on domestic U.S. flights. To learn more, read our full review of the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business Amex.
• If you want a card with more flexible rewards: The Business Platinum Card® from American Express offers excellent travel benefits and earns rewards that you can transfer to Delta as well as any of American Express's other travel partners. It offers comprehensive lounge access to eligible cardmembers — including to Sky Clubs (subject to limitations) — but comes with a higher annual fee of $895 (see rates and fees). To learn more, read our full review of the Amex Business Platinum.

For additional options, check out our full list of the best travel cards and best American Express cards.

Related: The best business credit cards

Bottom line

The Delta Platinum Business Amex is a solid mid-tier option in Delta's business card lineup.

If you check bags regularly, fly Delta multiple times a year and can make use of the included statement credits, the $350 annual fee can pay for itself.

I wouldn't recommend it to travelers who rarely fly Delta or who want maximum flexibility from their rewards. But for business owners who regularly fly Delta, value airline perks and want a boost toward Medallion status, this card offers a compelling combination of benefits.

Apply here: Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business American Express Card

For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles Platinum Business Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles Gold Business Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Amex Business Platinum Card, click here.

The Big Island of Hawaii was the site of a grand gala this month featuring a fabulous multi-course dinner, some of the island's top Hawaiian musicians, fireworks and dignitaries, with even former Vice President Dan Quayle making an appearance.

It was a fitting way to celebrate 60 years, and a $240 million renovation, of the island's iconic property, Mauna Kea Beach Hotel.

The Points Guy was one of the first media outlets to get a look at the massive renovation of the Big Island's original resort. And extra bonus: Since it's a Marriott Autograph Collection hotel, it's also a great place to earn and burn your Marriott Bonvoy points.

TPG reviewed the hotel in 2019, calling it "luxurious but unpretentious." That still holds true today. I love the laid-back vibe of this hotel, the friendly staff, the stellar renovation and the unforgettable beach.

Here's what has changed, and all the good stuff that made the hotel famous that's stayed the same.

A storied history of the hotel

Mauna Kea Beach Hotel has an incredible legacy. It was the first resort built on the Big Island of Hawaii back when there was no tourist infrastructure, not long after statehood.

Legend has it that the developer, Laurance Rockefeller, found the location by flying over the stunning beach and demanding to swim there. That was enough for him to decide to build the resort, and in the process helped boost Hawaii's then-struggling economy while also pioneering eco-tourism in the area.

The hotel is one of the best examples of mid-century modern design, brought to life by the firm of Skidmore, Owings and Merrill. Architect Edward Charles Bassett created the open-air design that quickly became famous worldwide.

The Prince Hotels group runs the property owned by Seibu Holdings, which has invested some $240 million to preserve the original design while modernizing the rooms and adding the kinds of amenities that luxury resort guests demand today. More on that below.

Changed: Renovated rooms

All of Mauna Kea's 252 rooms and suites have been transformed with light colors and natural wood highlights. There are fabulous Hawaiian artworks throughout, with just a few subtle nods to the Mauna Kea's bright orange plumeria flower logo and colors.

I shared the generous-sized room in the Beachfront wing with my mom. Beds were super comfortable with Fili D'oro bed linens.

The enormous patio created an additional living space, and also gave us access to the beach just across the giant lawn out back.

Bathrooms feature double sinks, L'Occitane en Provence amenities, Toto Japanese bidet-style toilets and a Japanese-style large walk-in shower bath combination.

A flat-screen television was hidden behind a sliding shutter, and sliding shutters also close off the doors to the patio.

Another unique design element is the beverage station along one wall. Not only is there an espresso machine, but filtered water is available with the push of a button.

I also got a look at one of the beautiful suites in the main tower of the hotel, complete with separate sleeping, living and dining spaces and a full kitchen. Check out those views.

I loved the easy beach access from my room, but next time I stay, I'd love to try out one of the main tower rooms for the sweeping vistas.

Stayed the same: Incredible location on one of Hawaii's best beaches

In our 2019 review, we called the hotel's Kaunaoa Bay the "best beach on the Big Island." I couldn't agree more. In fact, it's one of my favorite beaches in all of Hawaii.

And it's also easy to get here. The resort is in a prime location about a 40-minute drive from the Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keāhole (KOA) along the Big Island's famous Kohala Coast.

Plus, there's another whole resort for you to explore. The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is a 10-minute drive, or a beautiful 20-minute hike, from the Mauna Kea. It's one of my favorite Hawaii properties and has several restaurants, pools and an even bigger beach. Shuttles run between the hotels, and guests can use both facilities.

Changed: Updated and expanded amenities

Talk about an upgrade. Mauna Kea now has an incredible adults-only area with a huge sundeck, loungers, an infinity pool, a hot tub and fabulous views of the beach.

Attached to the infinity pool complex is a stunning new gym. It has ocean-front views and every possible weight and exercise machine you can think of, including Peloton bikes set up on the deck for outdoor spin classes.

There's also a brand new spa compound, "Spa at Mauna Kea," featuring a swimming pool and hot tub for spa guests, along with 11 treatment rooms.

There are also male and female steam and sauna sections, as well as lots of areas to chill before and after treatments.

I tried the signature lomilomi massage, which was divine. Prices for an hour-long massage start at $345.

And the hotel has added a massive 28,000-square-foot garden, providing many of the fruits and vegetables you'll enjoy at the hotel's restaurants.

The family pool is mostly the same, though the hotel has added cabanas and moved the hot tub toward the ocean for even better views.

The hotel has also redone the tennis courts and added pickleball courts. You'll also find a revamped and redesigned Mauna Kea Golf Course by Robert Trent Jr.

There are plenty of fun activities at the resort, too. My family enjoyed a lei-making session, and there's a whole Discover Center where you can play foosball, pool or putt-putt golf.

One other thing to note is that the hotel has one of the best art collections in Hawaii, thanks to the voracious art-collecting habits of Laurance Rockefeller. More than 500 antiques, statues, Hawaiian kapa cloth and other important artworks have been restored by the hotel. You can explore them with an interactive art walk, which makes for a fun activity.

My mom and I also loved that there were ice machines and laundry facilities that were free to use for guests and included detergent and fabric softeners.

Now that is a luxury.

Stayed the same: Service with a smile

Service was excellent across the board at Mauna Kea; from a lei greeting at check-in to friendly waiters in the restaurants to golf cart escorts at check-out; the staff went above and beyond.

The hotel is known for its great service, and many employees have been there for decades (two employees celebrated 60 years while we were here!).

Changed: Updated restaurants

There are plenty of restaurants to choose from at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, but longtime fans will be happy to know the main restaurant, Manta, is unchanged aside from getting a new menu with fresh ingredients from the Ulu Garden. This huge restaurant with ocean views is where the main breakfast is served each day. Dinner at sunset is highly recommended as well.

You can also dine beachside with a more casual vibe at Hau Tree (which got a refurbishment), and the Copper Bar serves up tapas and cocktails with more views of the ocean.

Finally, there's another fun dining spot on the golf course called Number 3, which is open daily for lunch.

You'll also find free coffee stations in the mornings throughout the hotel and a market shop – Mauna Kea Market – in the hotel lobby that serves specialty coffee, sandwiches and killer smoothies.

Changed: Mauna Kea is fully ADA-compliant

Mauna Kea is now also very friendly to those with disabilities. You'll find wheelchair ramps and wide elevators with grab bars throughout the property.

There are also lifts for the swimming pools.

Some rooms have been adapted for visitors with disabilities, such as those with sight or hearing impairments.

How to book the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

As you'd expect, Mauna Kea isn't cheap. Room rates start around $1,104 a night, but can creep up to around $2,000 during busy periods. Points availability is not widespread, as you'd expect at a newly renovated hotel, but you can book points stays when you can find free nights starting at 103,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night. That could offer a solid redemption when cash rates are highest

Bottom line

You can really feel the care (and money) the owners of Mauna Kea have poured into this iconic resort's loving renovations. Many guests have been coming to the property for decades with parents, grandparents and children. Some have even been coming for 60 years and consider it a second home.

Rooms have been modernized, and the renovations are chic and subtle. The restaurants have been freshened, and the addition of modern amenities like the infinity pool, hot tubs and the magnificent spa make this a top hotel in Hawaii once more.

While the prices have risen along with the renovation budget, this hotel can still be an aspirational redemption for those with Bonvoy points. That's how I'll budget my next trip to this stunning resort.

I will definitely be back.

Related reading:

• The award traveler's guide to Marriott Bonvoy
• The best Marriott credit cards
• What is Marriott Bonvoy elite status worth?
• The best credit cards to reach elite status
• Which credit cards offer the most lucrative rewards for hotel stays?
• The best hotel rewards programs in the world
• Best hotel credit cards

America is a big place and home to some of the most diverse scenery in the world. Our national parks, where you'll find everything from parched deserts with Seussianlike trees to marshy coastal waterways, are the perfect examples of this.

While the National Park Service reported slightly fewer visits in 2025 — 323 million versus 331.9 million in 2024 — 26 national parks broke all-time visitation records. This includes heavyweights like California's Redwood and Sequoia national parks, as well as lesser-known parks like Dry Tortugas in Florida and the Gates of the Arctic in Alaska.

If you're eager to steer clear of crowds, there are hundreds of sites in the National Park System, including historic battlefields, monuments, rivers and parkways. The 63 national parks are among the country's most exceptional and beautiful centerpieces — and these are 20 of our favorites.

Yellowstone National Park

• Why visit: It's home to over half of the world's hydrothermal features and diverse wildlife.
• Don't miss: Rainbow-hued Grand Prismatic Spring, the third-largest hot spring in the world.
• How to get there: Wyoming's Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) and Montana's Yellowstone Airport (WYS) and Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) are three of the closest airports.

This geologically unique landscape is largely in Wyoming but also stretches into Montana and Idaho. The park's 2.2 million acres are home to an array of wildlife, including bison, mountain goats and elk. You'll also find active geysers, steaming hot springs and mountains. Campsites are available, too, if you're looking for a truly outdoor weekend.

Related: Where to stay when visiting Yellowstone National Park: Best hotels and lodges

Acadia National Park

• Why visit: Granite cliffs, cobalt waters and mist-shrouded beaches are a perfect representation of Maine's beauty.
• Don't miss: A sunrise hike to the top of 1,530-foot Cadillac Mountain — the highest point on the North Atlantic Seaboard.
• How to get there: Maine's Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport (BHB) is just around the corner from the park. You must first fly to Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) and connect onward.

Rocky coastlines and windswept beaches converge with rugged, trail-laced woodlands at Acadia National Park in Maine. Depending on the time of year, Cadillac Mountain, the highest point along the North Atlantic Seaboard, is often among the first places in the country to see sunlight at daybreak.

Related: A beginners guide to visiting Acadia National Park

Shenandoah National Park

• Why visit: Time your visit in October or early November to see stunning fall foliage.
• Don't miss: The 105-mile-long Skyline Drive, famed for its 75 spectacular overlooks and abundance of recreational activities.
• How to get there: Travelers can fly into any major Washington, D.C.-area airport, including Virginia's Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA).

Easily accessible from Washington, D.C., this nearly 200,000-acre park in Virginia is ideal for scenic drives (including the Blue Ridge Parkway, which connects Shenandoah with the Great Smoky Mountains, and Skyline Drive, which bisects the park). Travelers also enjoy picturesque hikes, including along the Appalachian Trail.

Related: Everything you need to know about visiting Shenandoah National Park

White Sands National Park

• Why visit: Feel like you're on another planet with sculpted wavelike dunes of gypsum sand that sparkle in the sun.
• Don't miss: Sand sledding down towering dunes.
• How to get there: The closest airport is El Paso International Airport (ELP), which sits about 85 miles south of the park.

This 275-square-mile stretch of desert is punctuated by glistening white gypsum dunes visible from space. Located in New Mexico's Tularosa Basin, the towering drifts of sand attract travelers who come to hike and sled on the lunarlike terrain. Nearby El Paso is worth a visit before or after your trek through the park for its incredible art scene.

Related: Everything you need to know about visiting US national parks in this year

Grand Teton National Park

• Why visit: Visit this popular Wyoming park for its beautiful views and all kinds of outdoor activities, from mountaineering, hiking and kayaking in the warmer months to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing during the cooler months.
• Don't miss: Hiking the 7-mile-long Jenny Lake Trail.
• How to get there: Wyoming's Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) is located inside Grand Teton National Park, making it the obvious gateway for travelers from out of state.

Wyoming's Teton Range is one of the most striking landscapes in the country, with alpine scenery. The hiking here is exceptional, and the Snake River is a must-see if you're into fishing. You can stay in the comfort of the Western mountain town of Jackson Hole and use Marriott Bonvoy points for a stay at The Cloudveil, Autograph Collection or splurge at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole.

Related: How to plan an epic road trip through Grand Teton and Yellowstone national parks

Everglades National Park

• Why visit: Take in the U.S.'s largest subtropical wetland.
• Don't miss: The Anhinga Trail, home to alligators, turtles, otters, herons and exotic birds.
• How to get there: Everglades National Park is an easy drive southwest of Miami, so consider flying into Miami International Airport (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL).

The Florida Everglades are home to a rare ecosystem that supports elusive and endangered species like Florida panthers, American crocodiles, West Indian manatees and leatherback turtles. It covers a staggering 1.5 million acres and is essentially a slow-moving river blanketed in sawgrass. Make sure to book an airboat tour to get up close to everything the park has to offer.

Related: 11 of the best national parks to visit during winter

Yosemite National Park

• Why visit: Stunning landscapes and epic hiking opportunities make it a dream for the outdoorsy.
• Don't miss: The granite monoliths of Half Dome and El Capitan, the 650-foot Bridalveil waterfall and North America's tallest waterfall, Yosemite Falls.
• How to get there: Expect to spend an hour or more in the car to get to Yosemite. The closest major airports are Fresno Yosemite International (FAT), Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport (OAK) and Sacramento International Airport (SMF), all in California.

Famous for its imposing granite monoliths, incredible waterfalls and glacier-carved valleys, Yosemite National Park in California is one of the most famous and instantly recognizable national parks in the country. Avoid the crodenwds by heading into the high country or visiting the more popular recreation areas during the week. You can also book organized backpacking trips through REI Adventures, which covers the permitting process for you.

Related: 4 national parks have scrapped reservation system ahead of peak season

Denali National Park & Preserve

• Why visit: Denali has some of the best wilderness hikes, wildlife encounters, and dramatic landscapes in the nation.
• Don't miss: Off-trail hike through the Toklat East Branch and keep watch for caribou and bears.
• How to get there: Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) is the gateway to Denali National Park.

Denali National Park & Preserve is home to one of the most untamed stretches of wilderness left in the country and the tallest peak in North America. This ancient land in Alaska is where travelers go to see moose, grizzly bears, caribou, Dall sheep and wolves. Keep an eye out for shimmers of the aurora borealis, and experience a world that is still remote enough to feel undiscovered.

Related: Snowy peaks and hot springs: A Fairbanks-Denali-Anchorage road trip

Joshua Tree National Park

• Why visit: See sculpted rock formations and evocative remnants that stand as a testament to 5,000 years of human history.
• Don't miss: Incredible stargazing and, for climbers, colossal boulders to scale.
• How to get there: California's Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) is the closest airport to Joshua Tree, though most people visit from Los Angeles or San Diego.

At the intersection of the Mojave and Colorado deserts in Southern California, Joshua Tree National Park is best known for its massive boulders and fanciful yucca plants — the namesake Joshua trees. Travelers should remember that temperatures in this arid park can soar during the summertime, so pack plenty of water for your visit. While you're there, make sure to see the iconic Skull Rock and Arch Rock, two of the most iconic geological formations in the world.

Related: 8 best road trips for visiting national parks

Redwood National and State Parks

• Why visit: See almost half of the world's tallest trees along this 37-mile stretch of California's northernmost coast.
• Don't miss: Tall Trees Grove, which is home to a slew of majestic redwoods.
• How to get there: The closest airport to Redwood National Park is California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport (ACV), which has direct flights from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Denver International Airport (DEN). You can look forward to a beautiful drive from larger airports, too.

Another spectacular cross-section of California, the redwood forests are home to some of the tallest trees on Earth. Travelers gather here to see record-setting conifers, such as the 380-foot-tall Hyperion. The forests are filled with hiking trails, so you can lose yourself among the enormous trees. Trust us, photos don't truly capture the enormity of these trees.

Related: The best national parks in California

Rocky Mountain National Park

• Why visit: Head here for snowcapped peaks, glacier-carved meadows and cascading waterfalls you can't find anywhere else.
• Don't miss: The awe-inspiring scenery of Trail Ridge Road.
• How to get there: Denver International Airport (DEN) is the closest major airport to Rocky Mountain National Park, providing travelers with many flight options.

The jagged ridges and alpine terrain of the Rocky Mountains are the focal points of this national park in Colorado. The pristine lands are crisscrossed by more than 350 miles of hiking trails yet remain accessible via scenic roads. It's easy to see why many consider it one of the most beautiful and humbling places in the country. A variety of different hikes are available, so there's something for every skill (and comfort) level.

Related: 8 national parks that are spectacular in spring

Olympic National Park

• Why visit: Olympic National Park boasts rugged coasts, glaciated peaks and emerald-green rainforests that are relatively untouched by humans.
• Don't miss: Hurricane Ridge for sublime mountain vistas and the paved, 1.6-mile Hurricane Hill trail for 360-degree views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
• How to get there: Fly into Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and drive roughly 140 miles to the park.

Washington state's Olympic National Park spans nearly 1 million acres and encompasses everything from old-growth rainforests to craggy, windswept coastline with ample beaches and scenic overlooks. There are mountains and powerful rivers with rapids that lure confident paddlers, but this sacred land is just as renowned for its cultural heritage, too.

Related: Pacific Northwest road trip: The San Juan Islands and Olympic National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

• Why visit: Take in some of the largest old-growth forests and cascading waterfalls.
• Don't miss: The synchronous fireflies flashing across the park every summer, which is a truly surreal experience (but requires snagging a spot in the lottery).
• How to get there: On the Tennessee side, travelers can fly into Knoxville's McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), though Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) offers the most connectivity.

Sprawling across the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, this is one of the most-visited national parks in the country. Its fog-shrouded mountains are a family favorite and among the oldest on Earth. Try to visit in the fall, when the rambling landscape is especially picturesque with cozy fall foliage.

Related: 10 of the best US national parks to visit in the fall

Zion National Park

• Why visit: The park's surreal red-rock landscapes and epic hiking and bike trails will make you feel like you're on Mars.
• Don't miss: Angels Landing, one of the most scenic hiking trails in the country.
• How to get there: Fly into Flagstaff Pulliam Airport (FLG) in Arizona or Las Vegas' Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), then rent a car for the scenic drive to Zion.

Slender slot canyons and sandstone cliffs are a hallmark of Utah's first national park. Though Zion is a mecca for canyoneering, climbing and hiking, accessible trails and footpaths make it appropriate for the whole family. The landscape is truly otherworldly in parts.

Related: 12 best national parks to visit with your kids

Glacier National Park

• Why visit: Glacier is famous for its sculpted glaciers, crystalline alpine lakes, majestic forests and abundant wildlife.
• Don't miss: The spectacular views along the iconic 50-mile-long Going-to-the-Sun Road.
• How to get there: Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) in Kalispell, Montana, is the main gateway to Glacier. Travelers can also fly into Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) or Missoula Montana Airport (MSO).

In Montana, travelers will discover one of the only places in the continental U.S. to see the planet's disappearing glaciers (there are 26 named glaciers in the park) and admire millions of stars at the world's first Dark Sky Park to span an international border. Glacier National Park is also famous for its incredible wildlife. Nearby Kalispell, Montana, is also worth a visit, with quaint shops and restaurants in the downtown district.

Related: Planning a stargazing expedition? Here's everything you need to know about Dark Sky Places

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

• Why visit: The park is home to two of the Big Island's active volcanoes, including the often snowcapped Mauna Loa.
• Don't miss: The sulphuric pit of Halemaumau crater and the world's longest lava tube, Kazumura.
• How to get there: It's easy to drive to the park from Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole (KOA) and Hilo International Airport (ITO).

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park occupies a corner of the Big Island and is still very much under the dominion of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes and fire. In 2018, she reshaped the park with Kilauea's eruption. When it reopened after months of seismic activity, the molten cauldron of lava had disappeared. Thankfully, the landscape is just as stunning as ever, with a new black sand beach and an even more imposing crater.

Related: Top hotels on the Big Island, Hawaii, for your next vacation

Arches National Park

• Why visit: Come for the park's delicate sandstone arches, deep gorges, rock catacombs and open valleys, among other natural wonders.
• Don't miss: The 18-mile Scenic Drive and the park's 2,000 fantastical formations.
• How to get there: Fly into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) and drive about four hours. Alternatively, fly into Colorado's Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT), which is approximately two hours away from the park.

Another example of Utah's geographic splendor, this national park is a Marslike dreamscape filled with red-rock arches, fins and pinnacles that look like a whimsical playground. To avoid the crowds, visit neighboring Canyonlands National Park, which has many of the same features but fewer visitors. Either way, you'll be greeted with some of the best examples of sandstone arches in the world.

Related: A look at Red Cliffs Lodge Moab, a respite in the heart of Utah's red-rock country

Dry Tortugas National Park

• Why visit: Clear waters, pristine beaches and North America's best snorkeling and diving make this a can't-miss park in the Sunshine State.
• Don't miss: The formidable 19th-century Fort Jefferson, which looks like it's adrift in the middle of the ocean.
• How to get there: Fly into Key West International Airport (EYW), then hop aboard the high-speed Yankee Freedom III ferry. Or, fly to Miami International Airport (MIA) and drive to the ferry port.

Composed of seven islands roughly 70 miles off the coast of Key West, Florida, this national park is accessible only by seaplane or ferry. Despite its name, the park itself is more than 99% open water. Shipwrecks and reefs make this park a dream for divers and snorkelers, though landlubbers can camp on the beach and explore Fort Jefferson, a massive, unfinished 19th-century fort guarding the harbor. In other words, if you like snorkeling, this is the national park for you.

Related: 14 best Miami Beach hotels

Big Bend National Park

• Why visit: This stargazing mecca offers an array of diverse ecosystems spanning desert, mountain and river regions.
• Don't miss: A strenuous hike to the top of Emory Peak for stunning 360-degree views of the Chisos Mountains.
• How to get there: Big Bend isn't close to any major airport, so you'll be committing to at least a bit of a road trip. It's about a five-hour drive from El Paso and six hours from San Antonio.

Dark, star-filled skies, seemingly infinite spaces and sun-beaten desert are signature features of this West Texas park. Big Bend National Park is considered one of the best national parks in the Lower 48 for stargazing, though the Rio Grande River is also a boon for adventurous kayakers and canoers. Another benefit? It has the least light pollution of any national park in the contiguous U.S., and in 2022, the surrounding region was certified as the world's largest International Dark Sky Reserve.

Related: The 12 best road trips to take with your family this summer

New River Gorge National Park & Preserve

• Why visit: Check out this West Virginia park for its adrenaline-infused activities like white water rafting, mountain biking and the singular Bridge Walk.
• Don't miss: Hiking the more than 2-mile Endless Wall Trail, ideally at sunset for the best views.
• How to get there: If you're flying to West Virginia, you'll most likely come through West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW), near the capital of Charleston. From there, it's about a two-hour drive to the New River Gorge.

Commonly called "The New," this West Virginia parkland is best known for its exceptional white water rafting opportunities, advanced rock climbing routes along the sandstone cliffs and the more than 3,000-foot-long steel bridge that arches over the gorge. If rafting is in the plans, there's something for everyone. The Lower New serves up big, warm-water Class 3, 4 and 5 rapids — some of the East's best big-water runs — while the Upper New offers gentler Class 1, 2 and 3 floats that work for families.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• Where to go in 2026: The 17 best places to travel
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 6 of the best credit cards for travel purchases — beyond flights and hotels

After 10 years of homeownership, I've had my fair share of pricey expenses.

Washing machine won't complete a wash cycle? That'll be $330 for the labor and part swap. Fireplace won't stay lit? Goodbye $460 for the cleaning and inspection — plus another $900 for a new pilot light.

Then there are the never-ending water heater issues that seem to cost me $1,000-plus every other year.

Unexpected financial hits are par for the course when it comes to owning a home. But with the right strategy, they can also create opportunities.

In fact, a major home renovation is the exact reason why I recently added both the Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees) and the United Club℠ Card (see rates and fees) to my wallet.

With thousands of dollars in spending on the horizon, I realized I could use those unavoidable expenses to earn enough points and miles for a bucket-list business-class trip.

Here's how I've handled home expenses so far — and why this major project led to a change in my strategy.

My original card strategy for home expenses

Because I prefer travel rewards cards that earn points and miles over ones that earn cash back, I added the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card to my wallet shortly after becoming a homeowner.

The card offered perks I knew I'd use — including a $300 annual Capital One travel credit applied to bookings made through the Capital One Travel portal and lounge access at my two home airports — plus a simple earning structure that works well for everyday spending.

You'll earn:

• 10 miles per dollar spent on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 5 miles per dollar spent on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
• 2 miles per dollar spent on all other purchases

The last earning rate for all other purchases is what particularly caught my eye, as this catch-all category for everyday expenses offers more miles per dollar than what you'll get with many other general travel cards.

While I knew I'd take advantage of it for pet-related purchases and other items rarely included as an elevated earning rate category, I also liked having a reliable card for large home-related expenses, from annual maintenance to unexpected repairs.

Related: 9 things you didn't know you could pay for with a credit card

Why I've recently reevaluated my approach

Relying on my Venture X for home-related purchases for the past few years has served me well so far.

In fact, I've racked up enough miles to cover several nights of a weeklong stay at the Fairmont Royal Pavilion in Barbados and partially cover an upcoming five-night stay at Amansara in Cambodia, both through Capital One's "cover travel purchases" fixed-value redemption option.

Knowing I was about to begin a major home renovation project in the form of a top-to-bottom, start-from-scratch refresh of my kitchen alongside significant updates to my living room, it seemed like a perfect time to add another card to my wallet. After all, I knew a few appliance purchases could easily satisfy a spending requirement for a new premium credit card's welcome bonus.

Naturally, the Chase Sapphire Reserve became a front-runner, thanks to its best-ever welcome offer of 150,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening (no longer available).

While I already have the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees) — and the Sapphire Reserve's high $795 annual fee requires careful planning with spending to justify — because of Chase's updated Sapphire bonus rules, I was eligible for the Reserve's welcome offer, making the decision much easier.

2 bonuses are better than 1

Since I'd owned most of my furniture for a decade, replacing it alongside the renovation suddenly made sense. I wanted my home decor to match the new cabinetry, stone, paint and appliances I've selected.

That's when I realized I could potentially earn a second limited-time welcome bonus, too.

After considering a few cards, ultimately, I settled on the United Club℠ Card.

At the time I applied, the card was offering the opportunity to earn 100,000 bonus miles and 3,000 Premier qualifying points after spending $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening (no longer available).

Because United Airlines has a major presence at Dulles International Airport (IAD), a hub I use frequently due to its proximity to Washington, D.C., and has become one of my preferred airlines, the card immediately caught my eye despite its high $695 annual fee.

That's when things really clicked.

If I successfully earned both bonuses, I'd earn at least 100,000 miles with the United Club Card and 150,000 points with the Sapphire Reserve, the latter of which I could transfer to United MileagePlus, a Chase transfer partner, for a whopping total of 250,000 miles.

Say no more. Within days of coming to that realization, I applied for both cards.

Related: Can you pay your rent or mortgage with a credit card? Everything you need to know

How I plan on spending the bulk of the points and miles

It didn't take long to meet the spending requirement for my United Club Card's welcome offer. Just 24 hours after receiving the card in the mail, I purchased five new appliances. Within days, the offer's 3,000 PQPs appeared in my MileagePlus account, and after my first billing cycle, the 100,000 miles were deposited.

Once I earn the 150,000 points with my Chase Sapphire Reserve and transfer them to my MileagePlus account, I have big plans for how I'll use the bulk of the miles.

After visiting Asia for the first time this year, I already have my sights set on another new-for-me continent for 2027: South America.

As an architecture buff and lover of far-flung destinations that haven't been spoiled by overtourism, I've long wanted to visit Easter Island.

Rapa Nui, as it's known locally, is one of the world's most remote inhabited islands and can only be reached by air from Santiago, Chile, or via select world cruise itineraries.

A world cruise is out of reach for me, so instead, I'll fly from D.C. to Easter Island, with connections in Houston and Santiago, to finally see the island's iconic moai in person.

United miles won't cover the Santiago-to-Easter Island segment on LATAM, but they can cover the rest of the itinerary, including a nine-plus-hour business-class flight from Houston to Santiago. With the trip priced at nearly $11,500 in cash, it's exactly the kind of redemption that makes my home renovation spending feel worthwhile.

Related: Turn miles into adventure: How to travel to South America with Alaska Airlines miles

Bottom line

Homeownership comes with plenty to celebrate — and plenty of expenses.

While there's no way around the cost of maintaining and upgrading a home, there are ways to get more value from that spending.

In my case, a major renovation project is helping turn thousands of dollars in home expenses into a dream trip to Easter Island that would have otherwise been out of reach.

Related: How my travel credit cards keep me on the go within a modest budget

The "Upgrades in Progress" signs along Concourse C at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) have been up for about three years, shielding travelers from the major renovation project.

But they came down early Thursday morning, just in time to welcome the first soccer fans coming to town for the set of locally hosted World Cup games that kick off on June 15 and run through July 6.

TPG joined the pre-opening day festivities for SEA's new Concourse C.

"SEA is one of the most space-constrained airports in the country," the airport's managing director Wendy Reiter said during the opening ceremony. "We couldn't go out, so we had to go up. Using the same footprint, and not losing any gates, we've created more comfort and utility for our travelers."

The updated, $399 million project delivers a space with plenty of light and a 30-foot-tall ceiling, and it expands the concourse by 145,000 square feet. There are four floors where there was once just one, close to a dozen new restaurants and retail spots — many of them local — and six retail kiosks displaying the wares of small and emerging businesses in the region.

Located between the C and D concourses and accessible to all passengers and visitor's pass holders once they pass through security, the upgraded Concourse C area features several additions to the airport's art collection as well as a sensory room, a nursing room, meditation and prayer rooms, and a covered outdoor observation patio — the airport's first outdoor viewing space.

In the center, a massive tree-like structure, appropriately called the "Tree at C," creates a canopy for tiered, auditorium-style bench seating dotted with tables with power ports and artwork.

Alaska Airlines plans to open a massive, two-story lounge in Concourse C, but that won't happen until sometime in 2027.

The Concourse C upgrade project at SEA took dozens of teams and hundreds of workers, including the design team of The Miller Hull Partnership and Woods Bagot and Turner Construction.

Find more information about what the airport has in store here.

Related: How US airports are preparing for the 2026 World Cup

If you're an American Express cardmember, it's likely you're already familiar with the Amex mobile app, where you can view transactions, pay your statement, activate Amex Offers and manage your account.

You may also know about the Amex Travel website at amextravel.com, where you can book flights, hotels, rental cars, vacation rentals and cruises, paying with your eligible American Express card or redeeming Membership Rewards points.

In 2025, Amex merged these concepts into a new Amex Travel App™, bringing parts of the travel-planning and booking experience to your smartphone.

Unfortunately, not every feature made the transition, and there are some key distinctions to consider. What is the Amex Travel App best for, and where does it fall short? Here's what to know.

Amex Travel App basics

The Amex Travel App is the mobile app version of amextravel.com. It operates as a separate app from the Amex app, where you manage your card accounts, so you'll have to download it to explore its functionality. However, the two apps are integrated with one another.

Once you've downloaded the Amex Travel App (either through the iOS App Store or Google Play), you can easily navigate to it from the Amex card management app by going to the "Membership" tab and selecting "Book Travel."

Once you're logged in, you can access four tabs:

• Inspiration: A tailored section of articles, guides and trends with destination guides and hotel lists to inspire your next trip.
• Wishlists: A space to create tailored lists of hotel properties you'd like to save. You can pick any title and description for a wishlist, and add hotels as you navigate the app.
• Book: The most practical section where you can book flights, hotels or car rentals through the app.
• Trips: An area to view and manage upcoming, past and canceled trips made on the app or amextravel.com website.

One thing worth noting upfront is that you cannot book cruises or vacation rentals through the Amex Travel App. This feature is only available on the amextravel.com website.

There's also a profile section where you can view your Membership Rewards points balance, access travel benefits specific to your card and find nearby airport lounges. You can also update your loyalty program numbers, flight preferences and companion details, as well as chat with an Amex representative in-app.

If you hold a card with access to Fine Hotels + Resorts and/or The Hotel Collection (THC requires a two-night minimum stay), you'll be able to see these properties in the app. You can pay for reservations with your Amex card or redeem Membership Rewards points.

Related: Our favorite American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts properties where you can get elite perks

Which cards offer the most value in the Amex Travel App?

Booking through the Amex Travel App earns bonus Membership Rewards points on multiple popular Amex travel cards.

Here are four highlights, all for bookings made through amextravel.com and the Amex Travel App:

*Consumer Amex Platinum: On up to $500,000 of airfare purchases per calendar year (then 1 point per dollar spent).

It is worth pointing out that you'll also receive 5 points per dollar spent on airfare booked directly with airlines on the Amex Platinum and 3 points per dollar spent on airfare booked directly with airlines on the Amex Gold. This is important because, on average, Amex Travel flights cost over 10% more than booking directly, based on TPG's research.

Beyond earning Membership Rewards points, you can also redeem them in the app, though this is unlikely to be the best use of your points.

You'll always receive a 1-cent-per-point value when redeeming Membership Rewards points through the Amex Travel App or website. Because TPG's June 2026 valuations place Membership Rewards points at 2 cents apiece (when transferred to one of Amex's valuable loyalty program partners), we won't generally recommend you redeem this way.

Still, using your Membership Rewards points on Amex Travel bookings is a simple option.

Related: Credit card transfer partners: Guide to transferring points and miles to airlines and hotels

Best uses of the Amex Travel App

I explored the Amex Travel App as an Amex Platinum cardmember, which gives me access to multiple added perks, including FHR, THC and the Platinum Member Airfares portal.

With this in mind, I found a handful of features on the Amex Travel App to be useful and interesting.

Identifying airport lounges near me or a specific airport

One of my favorite Amex Travel App features is the "Find Airport Lounges" area. Since I'm an Amex Platinum cardmember, it pulls up my nearest airport and shows me what is available, along with operating hours and where I can find lounges within the airport.

If I'm not near the airport I'd like to visit, I can simply tap the magnifying glass icon to search for lounge locations at another airport. Here, I found available lounges at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL).

You can also start your Centurion Lounge check-in early by receiving an eligibility code in the app, which can save time in a long entry line by getting you into the queue as soon as possible. I haven't been able to use this feature yet, but I'm sure it will come in handy when I'm visiting crowded terminals on busy travel days.

Researching and saving potential hotels, including FHR and THC

The Amex Travel App shines when it comes to identifying, researching and brainstorming hotel stays, including those in FHR and THC.

For one, the ability to find inspiration through curated articles was exciting. I also enjoyed the feature that let me select from multiple vacation types, such as "beachfront," "boutique," or "amazing restaurant," to curate a destination that matched my travel preferences.

Once you find a hotel you're interested in, it's easy to see its policies, whether they apply to any card benefits or special offers, and other details about the property.

Viewing and using (but not tracking) statement credits

The app lets you see the full value of statement credits offered by eligible cards you hold. And, if you have an applicable statement credit available, you can apply it to your booking through the app.

For instance, I receive up to a $600 annual hotel credit per calendar year in the form of a statement credit (up to $300 semiannually) on prepaid FHR or THC bookings made through American Express Travel when I pay with my Amex Platinum (enrollment required; THC stays require a two-night minimum). I can view this benefit in the app.

However, I can't view my exact progress on the Amex Travel App. I can do this in my Amex account by navigating to the "Rewards & Benefits" section, as seen below. (I've used my credit for the first half of this year.)

The main drawback is that you can't see how much of a credit you've already used in the app. However, if you do have some of your credit left to redeem, it is nice that you can apply it to bookings made in the app.

Live chat

One of my favorite American Express features is the ability to chat with a dedicated "travel specialist" about everything from bookings to statement credits, and the Amex Travel App makes this especially convenient. I especially enjoy this because I won't have to bring out my laptop just to chat live with someone about an important detail.

Related: Is the Amex Platinum worth the annual fee?

Where the Amex Travel App falls short

These are the key areas in which the Amex Travel App didn't meet my expectations:

Inability to book or research cruises or vacation homes

The Amex Travel App has no functionality to book or view cruises or vacation homes, even though you can do so on the amextravel.com website, as shown below.

Slow experience when booking flights

When I tested booking flights on the app, I noticed it redirected me to a mobile version of the amextravel.com website rather than a fully integrated app-first experience. I also had trouble loading flights when I searched on my cell service, so I had to be connected to Wi-Fi to see results.

This wasn't the case when I looked up hotels or rental cars. Unlike flight searches, hotel and rental car searches performed consistently regardless of connection strength.

Personally, I found the app's flight booking experience slower and less reliable. I wouldn't feel comfortable booking a flight this way, but the functionality is technically there — as long as you have a speedy connection.

Missing map views for hotels

I couldn't find a way to view hotels on the map in the Amex Travel App. This is a website feature that I value, so this was disappointing for me.

Related: I forgot about this benefit on my business card — now I'm using it again

Should I use the Amex Travel App or the website?

You won't be able to replicate every functionality of the amextravel.com website on the Amex Travel App. However, if you're seeking convenience or inspiration, the app is a good option.

Here is what I would recommend for each platform:

I'd note that some aspects are identical on the app and the website. Live chat functions the same, and you can book hotels and car rentals with similar ease. In my experience, booking flights on the app is slower and less reliable, so I would still recommend booking on the website.

In my searches, prices were the same whether I booked through the website or the app. Just keep in mind that prices through Amex Travel may differ from those if you book directly with an airline, hotel or car rental company.

Related: What are American Express Membership Rewards points worth?

Bottom line

The Amex Travel App works best as a research and inspiration tool. Browsing hotel details, saving wishlists and discovering future destinations feel natural on mobile, and hotel and car rental bookings work well enough that you won't need to reach for your laptop.

However, it isn't a full replacement for the website. Flight booking felt slower and less reliable on the app, and features like cruise reservations, vacation rentals, statement credit tracking and map-based hotel search remain website-only.

Use the app for research and on-the-go trip management — but don't abandon the website yet.

Related: Monthly checklist: Credit card perks and benefits you should be using this month

Copa Airlines is making another push to turn connecting passengers into visitors. This week, the Central American carrier announced it's expanding its Panama Stopover program from seven to 15 days, allowing passengers to make a stop in its home country at no additional airfare cost.

By allowing passengers to spend up to two weeks exploring Panama before continuing onto their final destination, the airline aims to show travelers that this Latin American country is a destination in and of itself.

How to book a Copa Airlines stopover in Panama

It's easy to reserve a Panama vacation through this stopover program. When searching for flights on Copa's website, simply head to the "multi-city/stopover" tab, and choose your travel dates and cities.

This initiative aims to boost tourism and the local economy, but it's also designed to encourage visitors to experience the country's beaches, rainforests and towns and cultural attractions rather than simply passing through on a connection.

Copa and its tourism partners look to attract 250,000 visitors in 2026 alone.

Related: Copa Airlines eyes US loyalty opportunities, 'fundamentals' over 'flashy' seats and tech

"Through the Panama Stopover program, we continue working alongside authorities and industry partners to strengthen the country's tourism promotion and create more opportunities for Panama's economy," Copa Airlines CEO Pedro Heilbron said in a statement.

The two terminals at Panama's Tocumen International Airport (PTY) already see 19 million passengers annually, and the airport is often referred to as the "Hub of the Americas." Since it's a major connection point between North and South America, it's a convenient place for a stop when flying between North and South America.

Flyers will even notice a new interactive installation at the airport that lets them learn about destinations across the country and build customized itineraries lasting three, five, seven or 15 days — a fun way to get some travel inspiration.

Related: Copa Airlines to add Starlink Wi-Fi, becoming first in Latin America with the service

Visit 2 cities for the (ticket) price of 1

Copa's stopover program is part of a broader trend among airlines seeking to transform hub cities into destinations in their own right.

For example, Icelandair introduced the concept by allowing passengers traveling between North America and Europe to stop in Iceland for up to seven days with no additional airfare. Turkish Airlines promotes extended stays in Istanbul through complimentary hotel and tour programs for eligible passengers.

Qatar Airways and Emirates also offer stopover packages that encourage travelers to spend time in Doha or Dubai, respectively, before continuing their journeys.

And though this isn't a new tactic to attract tourism, it's one that has continually proven to be a popular way for travelers to visit multiple destinations without having to pay extra in airfare.

With respect to Panama, I got a first look last year at a beautiful new hotel and spa that's a great option for World of Hyatt loyalists making a stop in Panama — about two hours outside the capital city.

But there are a host of points hotels in closer to town, too — whether you're loyal to Hyatt, Marriott Bonvoy or Hilton Honors points.

Related: Hotel La Compania del Valle's massive spa and nature access will draw Hyatt loyalists to Panama

Bottom line

Millions of passengers connect through PTY each year, so this extended stopover program may turn them into visitors who spend several days in the country — and maybe even fall in love with it and return.

Worth noting: Copa is part of the Star Alliance, which makes them a partner of United Airlines in the U.S. That means you can put in your MileagePlus loyalty number when you go to book, and earn United miles for your trip.

Related reading:

• When is the best time to book flights for the cheapest airfare?
• The best airline credit cards
• Which US airline is best? TPG's 2026 rankings
• Flight delayed or canceled? Here's what to do
• The best credit cards to reach elite status
• What are points and miles worth? TPG's monthly valuations
• Spirit is gone. Can the other budget airlines survive?

United Airlines has quietly made its MileagePlus pooling feature more valuable by changing one of the program's biggest limitations.

United first introduced miles pooling in 2024, and allowed up to five MileagePlus members to pool some or all of their miles into a collective pot that can be used to book award flights for someone in (or out) of the pool.

That setup has some obvious benefits. But with many loyalty programs — including United's — it comes with trade-offs, too.

One of the bigger "catches" to pooling your United miles was that they could then only be used to book United or United Express-operated flight; pooling them meant you lost the ability to use those miles to fly on partners such as Air Canada, Lufthansa, Air New Zealand and others.

That brings us to the good news: That policy has now changed.

Related: Guide to earning and redeeming United miles

United greenlights mileage pooling on partner awards

As first reported by Travel on Points and confirmed by a United spokesperson, pooled United miles are now eligible for use with more than 40 United airline partners, including on airlines both in and out of the Star Alliance.

Here's what United said in a statement to TPG Friday:

"We're always looking for new ways to evolve MileagePlus and bring our members more rewards, value and flexibility. We recently expanded Miles Pooling to be available across more than 40 airline partners – making it even easier for families and friends to combine their miles for upcoming trips. MileagePlus members have been able to redeem miles on partner airlines for a long time, and now with expanded Miles Pooling, they'll be able to pool miles with family and friends to also redeem on other airlines."

What this means for MileagePlus members

This is great news for United loyalists because it opens up more routes and award booking options. Instead of being limited to only United-operated flights with your pooled miles, you can book awards on dozens of its partners — which is especially helpful for long-haul international travel.

That said, there are still a few caveats to think through before pooling United miles. The airline still requires 72-hour waiting period from when you join the pool until you can contribute miles. There's also an ongoing waiting period of 24 hours before miles transferred into the pool are available for use.

Also, keep in mind that United now provides award pricing discounts based on the elite status level and cardholder status of the person booking. This remains true for pooled miles, so pricing will be discounted (or not) based on the status and/or relevant United cards held by the person making the redemption within the pool.

Either way, though, the pooled miles are certainly a lot more flexible than they used to be.

Related: Best United credit card offers

Bottom line

Pooling airline miles can help turn small mileage balances into a usable award. Now that pooled United miles can be redeemed for partner flights, the feature is considerably more valuable — especially for families or groups that regularly travel together.

Related reading:

• United MileagePlus: Your guide to earning, redeeming, status and more
• The best credit cards for United Airlines flyers
• United's big MileagePlus changes are in effect: What to know
• The best credit cards to reach elite status
• 17 hours in United's swanky new Polaris Studio suite
• United's new MileagePlus reality: Cardholders win, others lose ground

From bonus points on your next hotel stay to sales on award tickets, we're always looking for travel deals that help you earn more points and miles and redeem them for maximum value. In other words, we want to help you book the vacation of your dreams.

This week, we have an easy way for you to unlock exclusive points and miles offers. Plus, there's still time to activate bonus earnings with this popular rewards card.

We help our readers each week by rounding up promotions so they don't have to scour the internet for the best reward redemptions and offers. This includes everything from frequent flyer programs and hotel rewards programs to credit card offers and rental car deals. Here's our latest list of noteworthy new points and miles promotions for June.

Airline loyalty program promotions (June 2026)

Airline loyalty programs can offer trip discounts on specific dates, the opportunity to earn more points or miles for future travel and exclusive deals to accumulate points or miles toward elite status. Below are some of the best offers we found for June.

Earn bonus SkyMiles on Delta Stays

If you haven't booked a hotel through the Delta Stays platform in a while, this offer is for you.

Delta SkyMiles members who have not made and completed a reservation with Delta Stays in the last 24 months are eligible to earn 3 bonus miles per dollar on their next stay, for a total of 5 miles per dollar. Even better, you can stack this deal with the Delta Stays credit on select Amex cards.

Book by Aug. 23, and complete your stay by Dec. 31. Find this offer in the Promotions section of your SkyMiles account.

Score more Qatar Avios at Hilton hotels

Qatar Airways and Hilton are teaming up to let members earn more Avios.

After linking your Hilton Honors and Privilege Club accounts, you can score 1,000 bonus Avios on your first stay at any hotel within the Hilton portfolio of brands.

Register for the promotion first, then complete your stay by Aug. 31. Be sure to add your Qatar Airways Privilege Club membership number as your preferred travel partner in your Hilton Honors account prior to check out on your first qualifying stay.

Related: How to choose an airline credit card

Hotel loyalty program promotions (June 2026)

Hotel loyalty programs regularly offer discounted award stays and new ways to earn extra points. Here are some June deals to consider when booking your next stay.

Earn 10k Marriott points in the mountains

The mountains are calling, and Marriott Bonvoy loyalists must go.

This deal can earn you 10,000 bonus Bonvoy points on a single vacation rental stay at participating Homes & Villas properties in Colorado, Utah, Montana, Wyoming, Tennessee and West Virginia. To qualify, your stay must be a minimum of two nights and $1,500.

Book by June 20 for stays through Sept. 14. No registration is required.

Earn 5k bonus points at Marriott Design Hotels

The Marriott Bonvoy deals aren't done yet.

You can also earn 5,000 bonus points per stay at Marriott Design Hotels around the world, as long as you stay at least two consecutive nights. Book by Aug. 2 with code "S2449," and complete your stay by Aug. 3.

Related: Best hotel credit cards

Credit card promotions (June 2026)

Card issuers offer deals and discounts on a wide range of products, from airfare to dining. Here are some of the offers we've rounded up this week; these are targeted, so they may or may not be available on your account. Note that you must activate these offers on your card and use the enrolled card to make the purchase in order to earn bonus rewards.

Targeted Amex Offer at Wander

If you want the perks of a vacation rental without sacrificing any luxury, Wander is for you — and this Amex Offer can save you up to 20% on your next booking. We found it on the American Express® Gold Card.

Earn a one-time $300 statement credit after you spend a minimum of $1,500 at the Wander website or through the Wander mobile app by July 31.

Targeted Chase Offers on car and RV rentals

If you're renting a vehicle on your next trip, Chase has two offers right now that could help, no matter what type of vehicle you need. We spotted these on the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees) and Chase Freedom Flex® (see rates and fees).

If you're in the market for a standard vehicle, you can earn $30 back at car-sharing marketplace Turo when you spend $150 or more. If you're looking for an RV for an epic road trip, you can get $50 cash back on a Cruise America purchase of $400 or more. Both offers end June 30.

Related: Your ultimate guide to saving money with Amex Offers

Ongoing travel deals

In addition to these new offers, many others from previous weeks are still available:

• Triple your Marriott Bonvoy points on vacation rentals in select Caribbean and Latin America destinations, as long as you stay five or more consecutive nights. Sign in and book by June 26 for stays between June 1 and Dec. 31.
• Earn Southwest Rapid Rewards bonus points when you rent a car at a participating Budget airport location in the U.S. and Canada. Earn 600 points for rentals of one to three days or 2,400 points for rentals of four days or longer. Book with coupon number "MUAY174," and complete your qualifying rental by June 30.
• Earn up to 3,000 bonus Miles & More miles when you fly the program's newest member, ITA Airways. Activate this offer, book eligible flights and travel by June 30.
• You can earn bonus Lufthansa Miles & More miles on Sixt car rentals depending on how far the German national team gets in the World Cup, with 1 additional mile per euro spent for each additional tournament round. Book your qualifying rental by June 30 for travel through July 31.
• Earn 2,000 World of Hyatt bonus points per night stayed — up to 60,000 bonus points total — at Under Canvas locations and select other properties. Register for this offer by June 30, and complete your stay(s) by July 1.
• Earn 15,000 Wyndham Rewards bonus points when you stay five or more consecutive nights at select extended stay brands. Register and book by June 30, and complete your stay by Sept. 30.
• You can score 20,000 bonus Marriott Bonvoy points when you book a qualifying vacation package through the program's platform. Book your vacation by June 30 for travel through Dec. 31.
• Celebrate America's Semiquincentennial (250th birthday) with 2,500 extra Best Western Rewards points per night — up to 10,000 bonus points total — at any Best Western branded hotel. Register before booking, and stay between July 1 and 7.
• Earn 8,000 extra Choice Privileges points every time you stay twice at participating Choice hotels, up to 32,000 bonus points maximum. Register and book by July 6, then complete your stays by July 7.
• IHG One Rewards members can earn triple American Airlines AAdvantage miles on IHG hotel stays. Register with your AAdvantage number, then book and stay by July 6.
• Earn up to $80 toward future Uber rides when you fly Delta premium economy. Enroll in the Promotions section of your Delta SkyMiles account, then book and fly by July 19.
• Get 20% of your World of Hyatt points back on award stays at participating Las Vegas hotels and resorts when you register, book and stay by July 31.
• Earn double Accor Live Limitless base points on an eligible stay of two-plus nights at a participating hotel in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Panama or Brazil. Activate this offer first, then book by Aug. 8 and complete your stay by Sept. 8.
• Score 2,000 Hilton Honors bonus points per stay of up to three nights, or 4,000 points per stay of four-plus nights. This applies to any hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio. Register first, and complete your stay(s) by Aug. 15.
• Fast-track your way to Emirates Skywards elite status with this offer. Until Aug. 31, you can earn 20% bonus tier miles on flights, regardless of your booking date, and reach status with just 80% of the usual mileage or flight requirements.
• With IHG One Rewards' "Pick Your Points" offer, you can choose to receive 2,000 bonus points for every two nights you stay this summer or 8,000 bonus points for every four nights, with no earning cap. Register, then book and stay by Aug. 31.
• From June 1 to Aug. 31, you can earn 50% more Miles & More miles and elite status qualifying points when you fly premium economy on Lufthansa or its partners. To take advantage of this promotion, simply book through the participating airline's website with your Miles & More number.
• Best Western Rewards members can earn 1,000 bonus points per eligible night (with no cap) for stays through Sept. 7. No registration is required.
• WorldHotels Rewards members can earn 1,000 bonus points (redeemable at both WorldHotels and Best Western properties) per night, with no maximum, at participating properties through Sept. 7. Log in here to register before booking.
• Earn 3,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points for every stay this summer at participating properties across the U.S. and Canada. Book with code "S2449" and stay by Sept. 8.
• New members of the Alaska Airlines Atmos Rewards program can save up to $50 on their next flight simply by joining the program by Dec. 31. U.S. residents outside Alaska, California and Hawaii can register here for their discount code; residents of Alaska, California and Hawaii can register here.
• Earn 5,000 bonus Hyatt points on each stay of five-plus nights at participating Hyatt House and Hyatt Studios properties. Register, book and stay by Dec. 31.
• If you're targeted for Hilton's "Stay More, Earn More" offer, you can earn up to 15,000 bonus points in total on your next five stays. Check to see if you're targeted and register here by Dec. 31, then complete your stay(s) within six months of registration.

Targeted Amex Offers

• Get $60 back after spending $600 on one or more qualifying purchases at participating Sonesta hotels in the U.S. and U.S. territories. Book on Sonesta's website by June 20.
• Earn 10% back on purchases of prepaid hotel bookings ("pay now") online at Expedia by Aug. 4, up to a maximum of $125 in total statement credits.
• Get $100 back after spending $500 or more with Omni Hotels & Resorts. Enroll by July 13 and make your purchase by Aug. 14.
• Earn a $150 statement credit after you spend a minimum of $375 at participating Marriott Bonvoy properties in the U.S., the Caribbean, Canada and Mexico before July 22.
• Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend a minimum of $1,000 on qualifying Norwegian Cruise Line purchases by June 30.
• Get $75 back as a statement credit when you spend a minimum of $300 at select Hyatt Hotels & Resorts worldwide by June 30.
• Earn 10 additional points per dollar spent on qualifying prepaid hotel bookings at Hotels.com through June 30, up to a cap of 10,000 points.
• Earn $150 cash back when you spend at least $375 at participating Marriott Bonvoy properties in the U.S., the Caribbean, Canada and Mexico. This offer ends July 22.
• Earn a $125 statement credit when you spend a minimum of $500 on room rate and room charges at select WorldHotels properties. Book on the World Hotels website and complete your purchase by Aug. 31.
• Earn 10% back on qualifying prepaid hotel purchases at Hotels.com by Aug. 31. There's a limit of $100 back in total statement credits.
• Earn a $100 statement credit when you spend a minimum of $500 on room rate and room charge purchases at select Wyndham Hotels & Resorts Luxury Destinations around the world. Book on the Wyndham website, and complete your purchase by Oct. 27.

Targeted Chase Offers

• Earn $200 cash back on your Trafalgar purchase when you spend $2,000 or more with Trafalgar online by June 15.
• Earn 5% cash back at 75-plus Cambria Hotels properties in the U.S., with a $12.25 cash back maximum. This offer expires June 26.
• Earn 8% cash back on your first two payments at Viator or Trip Advisor Experiences, up to $10 cash back total. This offer is valid through June 30.
• Earn 10% cash back, up to $62 maximum, on your IHG Hotels & Resorts purchase of $400 or more by June 30. A handful of properties are excluded, so check the terms before booking.
• Earn 10% cash back on a Lyft purchase through June 30, up to a maximum of $10 cash back.

Related reading:

• The best places to visit in June
• The 'coolest' vacation spots to escape the heat this summer
• Airfares soar 27% as fuel costs spike: See our booking tips
• How to pick the right travel credit card for you
• 9 ways to save on your next family vacation