If you’re looking for the best travel credit card that offers premium rewards without a high annual fee, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card remains one of the best picks in 2026.
For years, this card has consistently been among the top-recommended travel rewards credit cards in the United States because it combines flexible rewards, valuable travel protections, and a reasonable annual fee. Whether you’re planning your first international trip, frequently traveling for work, or simply want to get the most from your spending, the Chase Sapphire Preferred delivers great long-term value.
In June 2026, Chase made several meaningful upgrades to the Sapphire Preferred while maintaining the annual fee at $95. Cardholders now earn extra bonus points on gas, EV charging, and vacation home rentals. They also receive a larger annual hotel credit, a Trusted Traveler application fee credit, and enhanced travel protections. These upgrades make an already excellent travel card even more appealing.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything about the Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card Benefits (2026), including how the rewards program operates, what perks are included, who should apply, and how to make the most of every point you earn.
Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Overview
Before diving into the benefits, here’s a brief overview of the card.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Card Type | Travel Rewards Credit Card |
| Annual Fee | $95 |
| Rewards Program | Chase Ultimate Rewards |
| Foreign Transaction Fees | None |
| Recommended Credit | Good to Excellent |
| Best For | Travelers, Dining, Everyday Spending |
Unlike many premium travel cards that charge annual fees of $395 or more, the Chase Sapphire Preferred offers premium travel features while staying affordable for most travelers.
Why the Chase Sapphire Preferred Is So Popular
The main strength of the Chase Sapphire Preferred isn’t just the points you earn—it’s the flexibility of those points.
Instead of being tied to one airline or hotel, your Chase Ultimate Rewards points can be used through Chase Travel, transferred to participating airline and hotel loyalty programs, or redeemed for statement credits, gift cards, or cash back. This flexibility gives cardholders much more freedom than many airline-branded credit cards.
Another reason this card is one of the best travel credit cards in 2026 is its excellent blend of rewards and travel protection. From trip delay reimbursement to primary rental car coverage, the built-in protections can save travelers hundreds or even thousands of dollars when unexpected issues arise during a trip.
Top Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card Benefits (2026)
1. Earn Flexible Chase Ultimate Rewards Points
One of the biggest reasons people apply for the Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card is access to Chase Ultimate Rewards, one of the most valuable and flexible rewards programs out there.
Instead of limiting you to one airline or hotel, Ultimate Rewards points can be used in various ways, including:
- Flights
- Hotels
- Rental cars
- Vacation packages
- Cruises
- Statement credits
- Gift cards
- Cash back
- Transfers to participating airline and hotel loyalty programs
This flexibility allows you to choose the redemption option that provides the best value for your travel goals.
2. Earn More Rewards on Everyday Spending
The 2026 update greatly expanded the card’s earning categories, making it easier to earn points on daily purchases.
Current Rewards Structure
5X Points
- Eligible travel booked through Chase Travel
3X Points
- Dining worldwide, including eligible takeout and delivery
- Gas stations
- EV charging
- Vacation home rentals booked directly with eligible providers like Airbnb and Vrbo
- Online grocery purchases (excluding Target, Walmart, and wholesale clubs)
- Select streaming services
2X Points
- Other eligible travel purchases made directly with airlines, hotels, taxis, trains, cruises, and similar providers
1X Point
- All other eligible purchases
These expanded earning categories help cardholders earn rewards much faster than traditional cash-back credit cards, especially for those who frequently travel or dine out.
3. $100 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit
One of the most significant improvements in 2026 is the increased $100 Chase Travel Hotel Credit.
Each account anniversary year, cardholders can get up to $100 in statement credits for eligible prepaid hotel stays booked through Chase Travel.
Previously, this benefit was capped at $50 per year. By doubling the hotel credit while keeping the annual fee unchanged, Chase has made the card much more valuable for travelers. For many, using this benefit alone effectively offsets the card’s $95 annual fee.
4. No Foreign Transaction Fees
International travelers often face around 3% in fees when using many credit cards abroad.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred has no foreign transaction fees on international purchases.
Whether you’re enjoying dinner in Italy, shopping in Japan, exploring Thailand, or traveling for work in Europe, you can use your card confidently without worrying about extra costs. This benefit makes the card an excellent choice for anyone who travels outside the United States.
5. Trusted Traveler Application Fee Credit
Another valuable addition in 2026 is a statement credit of up to $120 every four years for eligible application fees charged to your card for:
- Global Entry
- TSA PreCheck
- NEXUS
These Trusted Traveler programs help eligible travelers move through airport security and customs more quickly, making the travel experience faster and easier.
6. Enhanced Travel Benefits Without a Higher Annual Fee
Many competing travel rewards cards have raised their annual fees recently. Chase took a different route.
Despite adding new earning categories, increasing the annual hotel credit, expanding travel protections, and introducing the Trusted Traveler credit, the Sapphire Preferred still charges just $95 per year.
For travelers seeking premium benefits without paying hundreds of dollars annually, this remains one of the best values in the travel credit card market.
Is the Chase Sapphire Preferred Worth It in 2026?
For most travelers, the answer is yes.
If you travel regularly, eat out, pay for streaming services, buy groceries online, or stay in hotels, the Chase Sapphire Preferred can provide value well beyond its annual fee. The combination of flexible Chase Ultimate Rewards, strong travel protections, no foreign transaction fees, and new 2026 benefits makes it one of the best all-around travel credit cards available now.
More importantly, this card isn’t just for frequent flyers. Even occasional travelers can benefit from its flexible rewards program, built-in insurance protections, and annual hotel credit, making it a great long-term addition to almost any wallet.
Maine official Chase benefit guide has been verified. Some limits that were uncertain in the previous draft have been corrected according to the latest official values.
Travel Protection Benefits
One of the main reasons the Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card is often considered one of the best travel credit cards is its wide range of travel protections. While many travel rewards cards focus on earning points, Chase also protects your trips from unexpected events like cancellations, delays, lost baggage, and rental car damage.
If you travel multiple times a year, these protections can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Trip Cancellation and Trip Interruption Insurance
Life is unpredictable, and sometimes even the best travel plans must change.
If your trip is canceled or cut short for a covered reason, such as illness, severe weather, or other eligible situations, you may get reimbursed for prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses.
Coverage includes eligible expenses like:
- Airline tickets
- Hotel reservations
- Cruises
- Tours
- Vacation packages
The Chase Sapphire Preferred provides coverage of up to $10,000 per covered traveler and up to $20,000 per trip for eligible non-refundable travel expenses, according to the Guide to Benefits.
Trip Delay Reimbursement
Flight delays can lead to unexpected costs, especially if you’re stuck overnight.
If your common carrier travel is delayed by more than 12 hours or requires an overnight stay, the Chase Sapphire Preferred may reimburse eligible unreimbursed expenses up to $500 per covered traveler per trip.
Eligible expenses may include:
- Hotel accommodations
- Meals
- Ground transportation
- Toiletries
- Other reasonable necessities
This benefit can help ease the financial burden of an unexpected delay.
Baggage Delay Insurance
Nothing is more frustrating than arriving at your destination without your luggage.
If your checked baggage is delayed by more than six hours, you may be reimbursed for essential purchases while waiting for your bags.
Covered essentials include:
- Clothing
- Toiletries
- Personal care products
- Other necessary travel items
Coverage is available for up to $100 per day for a maximum of five days, according to the benefit terms.
Lost Luggage Reimbursement
If your checked or carry-on baggage is lost, stolen, or damaged by a common carrier during a covered trip, the card provides reimbursement for eligible repair or replacement costs.
Coverage is available for up to $3,000 per covered traveler, according to the benefit terms and applicable limits. ([Chase Credit Cards.
Primary Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver
One of the most valuable benefits of the Chase Sapphire Preferred is its Primary Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver.
When you pay for an eligible rental vehicle with your card and decline the rental company’s collision insurance, you receive primary coverage for theft and collision damage.
Coverage provides reimbursement of up to $60,000 for eligible rental vehicles with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $125,000 or less, according to the benefit terms.
Emergency Evacuation and Transportation Coverage
A major update introduced in the 2026 refresh is Emergency Evacuation and Transportation Coverage.
If you or another covered traveler gets seriously ill or injured during a covered trip that is 100 miles or more from home, this benefit may cover eligible emergency medical transportation and evacuation expenses.
Coverage is available for up to $100,000, according to the Guide to Benefits.
Travel and Emergency Assistance
When you’re traveling away from home, emergencies can happen without warning.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred gives you access to emergency assistance services that can help coordinate:
- Medical referrals
- Legal referrals
- Emergency transportation assistance
- Emergency messaging
- Travel information
While you are responsible for paying for any services provided, having access to assistance can be invaluable during an emergency.
Purchase Protection Benefits
The Chase Sapphire Preferred protects more than just your travel; it also offers valuable protection for eligible everyday purchases.
Purchase Protection
Eligible new purchases made with your card are protected against theft or accidental damage for 120 days from the purchase date.
Coverage provides reimbursement of up to $500 per item, according to the Guide to Benefits.
Extended Warranty Protection
Many products come with a manufacturer’s warranty, but that coverage eventually runs out.
When you buy eligible items using the Chase Sapphire Preferred, the card adds one extra year to the original U.S. manufacturer’s warranty for eligible warranties of three years or less, up to a maximum warranty period of four years.
Additional 2026 Card Benefits
In addition to travel protections, the 2026 refresh added several valuable perks.
These include:
- Up to $100 annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit
- Up to $120 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS application fee credit every four years
- Complimentary Apple TV+ subscription for one year when activated by the required deadline
- Complimentary one-year DashPass membership from DoorDash
- 5X points on eligible Lyft rides through September 30, 2027
- 5X points on eligible Peloton equipment and accessories through December 31, 2027
These new features greatly increase the card’s overall value while maintaining an annual fee of just $95.
Pros and Cons of the Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card
Like any credit card, the Chase Sapphire Preferred has strengths and weaknesses. Understanding both can help you decide if it suits your travel habits, spending patterns, and financial goals.
Pros
- Competitive $95 annual fee
- Flexible Chase Ultimate Rewards points
- Excellent travel insurance protections
- Primary rental car collision damage coverage
- No foreign transaction fees
- Up to $100 annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit
- Up to $120 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS application fee credit every four years
- Strong bonus categories for dining, travel, gas stations, EV charging, vacation rentals, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services
- Multiple redemption options, including eligible airline and hotel transfer partners
Cons
- Requires good to excellent credit for the best approval odds
- Annual fee is not waived during the first year
- Maximum value is usually achieved through strategic travel redemptions
- Some benefits require bookings through Chase Travel
- Welcome offers can change over time
Who Should Apply for the Chase Sapphire Preferred?
This card is a great option for:
- Frequent travelers
- Business travelers
- Couples who travel often
- Digital nomads
- Food lovers who dine out frequently
- People who regularly spend on travel and eligible everyday categories
- Beginners looking for their first premium travel rewards card
Even occasional travelers can benefit from the card’s travel protections, flexible rewards program, and annual hotel credit.
Chase Sapphire Preferred vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve: Which Card Is Better?
Both the Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card and the Chase Sapphire Reserve are popular travel rewards credit cards in the United States. However, they cater to different types of travelers.
The Sapphire Preferred offers great value with a low $95 annual fee, making it a solid option for most people who want flexible travel rewards without a high yearly cost.
The Sapphire Reserve is meant for frequent travelers who can take full advantage of premium travel benefits like airport lounge access and extra travel credits. While it provides more perks, it also has a much higher annual fee.
If you travel a few times a year and seek an affordable card with flexible rewards, solid travel protections, and valuable statement credits, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card is often the better choice for most cardholders.
How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Approved
Although Chase does not publish a minimum credit score requirement, applicants with good to excellent credit usually have better approval odds. Approval also depends on your overall financial profile rather than just your credit score.
Before applying, consider these tips to boost your chances of getting approved:
- Pay all of your bills on time.
- Keep your credit utilization ratio low.
- Avoid applying for several credit cards in a short time.
- Review your credit report and fix any errors before submitting your application.
- Maintain a stable income and manageable debt.
- Build a positive credit history over time.
Taking these steps won’t guarantee approval, but they can enhance your credit profile and improve your chances.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with the Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card offers great value, but many cardholders don’t take full advantage of its benefits due to avoidable mistakes. Understanding these common errors can help you earn more rewards, save money, and get the most out of your card.
Carrying a Balance
One of the biggest mistakes is carrying a balance from one month to the next. While the card offers valuable travel rewards, the interest on unpaid balances can quickly exceed the value of any points you earn. Paying your statement balance in full each month is the best way to maximize your rewards.
Forgetting to Use the Annual Hotel Credit
The card includes an annual $100 Chase Travel Hotel Credit, but many cardholders forget to use it before their anniversary year ends. Since this benefit can cover the card’s $95 annual fee, it’s smart to plan at least one eligible hotel stay each year.
Redeeming Points for Low-Value Rewards
Not all redemption options provide the same value. Before redeeming your Chase Ultimate Rewards points, compare the available options to find which one gives you the best overall value for your travel goals.
Missing the Welcome Offer Requirements
If you’re a new cardholder, pay attention to the spending requirement and deadline to earn the current welcome offer. Missing the required spending threshold means losing one of the card’s most valuable benefits during the first year.
Overlooking Built-In Travel Protections
Many cardholders never use benefits like Trip Cancellation Insurance, Trip Delay Reimbursement, Baggage Delay Insurance, or Primary Rental Car Coverage simply because they don’t know these protections are included. Reviewing your Guide to Benefits before traveling can help you understand what coverage is available.
Ignoring Chase Offers
Chase regularly provides targeted Chase Offers that can help eligible cardholders save money or earn extra rewards at participating merchants. Checking these offers periodically can boost the overall value you get from your card.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can maximize your rewards, fully benefit from the card’s premium features, and gain significantly more value than the annual fee each year.
Who May Want a Different Card?
You might consider another option if:
- You prefer a simple flat-rate cash back card.
- You rarely travel.
- You often carry a balance from month to month.
- Your spending doesn’t match the card’s bonus categories.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Chase Sapphire Preferred worth it in 2026?
Yes. Its mix of flexible rewards, good travel protections, no foreign transaction fees, and new 2026 updates keeps it as one of the best-value travel rewards credit cards available.
What credit score is recommended?
Applicants usually have good to excellent credit, often around 670 or higher. Approval depends on various factors beyond just your credit score.
Does the card charge foreign transaction fees?
No. The Chase Sapphire Preferred has no foreign transaction fees, making it a strong option for international travel.
Can I transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points?
Yes. Most airline and hotel transfer partners keep a 1:1 ratio, while World of Hyatt transfers are 4:3 for new applicants approved on or after June 15, 2026. Existing eligible cardholders maintain 1:1 Hyatt transfers through September 30, 2026.
Is the $95 annual fee worth paying?
For many travelers, yes. The annual hotel credit, bonus rewards, travel protections, and flexible redemption options can provide considerable value that exceeds the annual fee.
Is the Chase Sapphire Preferred good for beginners?
Yes. It is frequently recommended as one of the best starter travel rewards credit cards. It offers premium benefits without a high annual fee and has a straightforward rewards structure.
Final Verdict
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card remains one of the best mid-tier travel rewards cards available in 2026.
With a $95 annual fee, flexible Chase Ultimate Rewards points, generous bonus categories, solid travel insurance, purchase protections, no foreign transaction fees, and valuable new benefits introduced in the 2026 update, it offers exceptional overall value for both new and experienced travelers.
Whether you’re booking international vacations, planning weekend getaways, or simply earning rewards on everyday purchases, the card provides a rare mix of affordability and premium features.
For many, the annual hotel credit alone can offset the annual fee, while expanded bonus categories for gas stations, EV charging, and vacation rentals make earning rewards more accessible than ever.
If you want to earn flexible travel rewards without paying several hundred dollars per year for a premium card, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card remains one of the best choices in today’s market.
Before applying, always check the official Chase application page for the latest welcome offer and eligibility requirements, as promotional offers can change over time.
Written by Finphantix