United Explorer Card 2026 Review

Annual fee
$0 intro for the first year, then $150
Rewards rate
9%-1%
Welcome Bonus
50,000 bonus miles
Apply Now →on Chase's website
Regular APR:19.74%-28.24% Variable APR

  • 9%Total miles on eligible United flights
  • 1%Miles on all other purchases

Welcome Bonus:

Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months.

Reward Rate:

Earn 9 total miles per $1 spent on eligible United flights.

APR:

19.74%-28.24% Variable APR

This card is particularly appealing for occasional United flyers due to its waived annual fee for the first year and valuable travel perks like free checked bags.

Pros:

  • Free first checked bag
  • No annual fee for the first year

Cons:

  • Annual fee after the first year
  • Limited to United Airlines
Apply now →

The United Explorer Card is well-suited for occasional United Airlines travelers seeking to maximize their rewards on airline purchases, particularly due to its first-year fee waiver and benefits like free checked bags. However, those who do not frequently fly with United may find better value in other credit cards with broader reward structures.

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