Changing Soon: United MileagePlus Explorer Card Benefits

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I have been a United Airlines MileagePlus Explorer cardholder for a very long time, seven years to be exact. The card used to be #1 in my wallet until I became Chase Sapphire Preferred and American Express cardholder. The MileagePlus Explorer card benefits will have some changes beginning June 1, 2018. I will list the current benefits and then the updated benefits.

Current Benefits

  • Free first checked bag
  • Priority Boarding
  • No foreign transactions fees
  • 2 miles per $1 spent on United purchases
  • 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Access to more award space

(no longer available): 10,000 bonus miles after spending $25,000 each calendar year

Updated Benefits

***the same benefits as above, and:

  • 2 miles per $1 spent at restaurants
  • 2 miles per $1 spent at hotels
  • 25% statement credit on purchases (Wi-Fi, food, and beverages) on United flights and paid with the card
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit (up to $100)
  • Trip cancellation/interruption insurance reimbursement of up to $1,500 on nonrefundable fares

Final Word

The updated benefits give cardholders a few more options to earn redeemable miles. The one that might be most beneficial to me is the 25% statement credit on purchases onboard United flights…after I spend my American Express airline credit.

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