Overview — ⭐️ Best Flexibility
Chase is one of the main two programs points enthusiasts collect along with American Express Membership Rewards. We recommend starting with Chase.
Chase offers straightforward cards and makes it easy to get at least 1 cent of value per point. Customers can also book flights, hotels, etc through the Chase travel portal and get 1.25 - 1.5 cents of value per point.
Chase will automatically deny you if you have opened more than 5 personal cards in the last 24 months (really any cards that appear on your credit score which include some Capital One business cards). Most points enthusiasts try to stay under this “5/24” rule.
Transfer partners
Chase has a strong set of transfer partners. Our favorites include Air Canada, United, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and Hyatt.
Airlines
Hotels
It’s generally very poor value to transfer to these partners. If you want to stay at IHG or Marriott properties, considering using points to book through the Chase travel portal. Each Chase point is worth 1.25 cents or 1.5 cents depending on the card you have.
Cards
My referral code might get you a better offer than what’s publicly available:
Sapphire Reserve https://www.referyourchasecard.com/19k/3B9A2IKSBR
Any United Card
Any IHG Card