This guide highlights a selection of leading products and services. When you buy through our links, we may be compensated.
Chase Travel Review: Unlock Rewards and Travel Benefits
By Ben Carter
8.7
Consumers Best Verdict: Chase Travel Highlights
Chase Travel, accessed through the Ultimate Rewards portal, offers Chase cardholders a platform to book flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and activities, often with the ability to earn bonus points or redeem existing points for enhanced value.
For Chase Sapphire, Ink, and select Freedom cardholders, Chase Travel provides a compelling way to maximize rewards and access travel benefits. While pricing can vary, the convenience and potential for point bonuses make it a strong contender, particularly for those already invested in the Chase ecosystem.
In-Depth Look: Chase Travel Features & Considerations
Core Features & Consumer Benefits
Chase Travel offers a suite of features designed to enhance the booking experience for its cardmembers.
Enhanced Point Redemption
Get more value for your Ultimate Rewards points when booking travel through the portal, especially with premium cards like Sapphire Preferred (25% bonus) or Reserve (50% bonus).
Bonus Point Earning
Often earn extra points on bookings made through Chase Travel, accelerating your rewards accumulation.
Integrated Booking Platform
Conveniently book flights, hotels, rental cars, and activities all in one place using points, cash, or a combination.
Travel Protections
Many bookings made through Chase Travel may be eligible for the robust travel insurance and purchase protections offered by eligible Chase credit cards.
User-Friendly Interface
The portal is generally easy to navigate, allowing for straightforward searches and comparisons.
Important Considerations & Potential Downsides
- Primarily Benefits Chase Cardholders
The best value and features are reserved for those with eligible Chase Ultimate Rewards-earning credit cards.
- Pricing Variability
While often competitive, prices on Chase Travel may not always be the absolute lowest compared to booking directly or with other OTAs.
- Third-Party Booking Nuances
Bookings are often treated as third-party, which can sometimes complicate changes, cancellations, or earning elite status benefits directly with airlines/hotels.
- Limited Hotel Loyalty Program Benefits
You typically won't earn hotel loyalty points or enjoy elite status benefits when booking hotels through Chase Travel, as it's an OTA.
Who Is the Chase Travel Best For?
Chase Sapphire Preferred and Reserve Cardholders
These users get significant point redemption bonuses and access to premium travel benefits.
Ultimate Rewards Points Maximizers
Individuals focused on getting the most value from their Chase points for travel.
Travelers Seeking Convenience
Those who appreciate a one-stop shop for booking various travel components.
Users Valuing Chase Travel Protections
Cardholders who want the peace of mind from Chase's travel insurance benefits applied to their bookings.
Flexible Travelers
Individuals whose travel plans can accommodate the options and pricing available through the portal.
Who Might Want to Explore Other Options?
- Non-Chase Cardholders
Individuals without eligible Chase cards won't access the key benefits of the portal.
- Travelers Prioritizing Direct Airline/Hotel Elite Benefits
Those who need to book direct to earn elite status or enjoy specific loyalty program perks.
- Absolute Bargain Hunters
While competitive, those solely focused on the rock-bottom price might find better deals elsewhere after extensive searching.
- Individuals with Complex Itineraries
Those requiring highly customized or multi-stop itineraries might find traditional travel agents or direct bookings more flexible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Make Your Savings Grow Faster.
UFB Direct, a division of Axos Bank, offers a high-yield savings account designed for individuals looking to maximize their interest earnings with minimal fees. It's an online-only option focused on providing competitive rates and a straightforward banking experience.
