The Complete Guide to the Citi Double Cash® Card: Unlimited 2% Cash Back, Balance Transfer Benefits, Credit Requirements & Everyday Value
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® is one of the most popular and best-rated travel credit cards in the United States. Known for its generous rewards, flexible redemption options, strong travel protections, and moderate annual fee, it has become the go-to choice for millions of Americans looking to maximize credit card rewards, earn travel points, and build long-term financial value.
Often recommended as the best travel credit card for beginners, the Sapphire Preferred offers exceptional value without requiring the premium annual fees associated with ultra-luxury cards.
This guide covers everything you need to know — including point structures, travel benefits, credit score requirements, competitor comparisons, and how to maximize the card’s full potential.
Consumers choose the Sapphire Preferred because it strikes a perfect balance between:
It’s frequently recommended by financial experts, travel bloggers, and credit industry analysts as the best first travel credit card.
This card is perfect for:
Its value proposition is extremely high for the average U.S. consumer.
Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the main benefits.
This is the heart of the Sapphire Preferred.
You earn:
These categories make the card extremely rewarding for everyday use.
When you redeem points through the Chase Ultimate Rewards® travel portal, your points are worth:
This is one of the strongest uplift bonuses available on a mid-tier travel card.
Sapphire Preferred allows point transfers at a 1:1 ratio to multiple airline and hotel partners.
This is where the Sapphire Preferred becomes extremely powerful — especially for travelers who want to book premium cabins or luxury hotel stays.
The card includes:
It’s an easy-to-use perk that offsets part of the annual fee.
This is a major strength of Chase’s premium cards.
Includes:
For frequent travelers, these protections can save thousands per year.
Includes:
This makes the card strong not only for travel but for everyday spending.
Ideal for international travelers and digital nomads.
The Sapphire Preferred is easier to obtain than ultra-premium cards like Sapphire Reserve or Amex Platinum.
Other approval factors include:
Chase also applies the well-known 5/24 Rule.
The Sapphire Preferred is often issued with:
Users with excellent credit may receive high-limit credit card offers.
Most users find the fee very easy to justify because:
For most consumers, this card offers far more in value than its annual fee.
Especially Emirates, Virgin Atlantic, and Singapore Airlines.
Hyatt consistently offers the best redemption rates.
These categories earn significant multipliers.
Great for simple bookings.
Freedom and Freedom Unlimited can turbocharge point earnings.
| Card | Annual Fee | Best For | Travel Value | Lounge Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Sapphire Preferred | Moderate | Flexible travelers | Excellent | No |
| Amex Gold | Dining & groceries | Food lovers | Excellent | Limited |
| Capital One Venture | Simple travel rewards | Frequent travelers | Good | Yes |
| Citi Premier | Airlines & gas | Flexible rewards | Great | No |
The Sapphire Preferred is not ideal for:
Absolutely — it’s widely considered one of the best travel credit cards for value across:
It’s especially powerful when paired with transfer partners.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred remains one of the strongest travel rewards credit cards available in the United States. Its combination of:
…makes it an exceptional choice for both beginners and experienced travelers.
If you want a card that delivers high long-term value, flexible rewards, and excellent travel benefits, the Sapphire Preferred is one of the best options in today’s credit card market.
