In the competitive world of travel rewards, JetBlue stands out as a top choice for frequent flyers, especially those loyal to the airline. The JetBlue Plus card offers enhanced benefits, higher rewards, and travel perks that make flying more rewarding. But is this card worth the hype, and is it the right fit for your travel habits?

This review explores the key features of the JetBlue Plus card, delves into its benefits and costs, and helps you decide whether it's the ideal option for your travel needs. Whether you're a frequent JetBlue passenger or considering a new credit card for travel perks, this review provides all the details you need to make an informed decision.

The Basics of the JetBlue Plus Card

The JetBlue Plus card is a travel rewards credit card offered by Barclays in partnership with JetBlue Airways. Designed for frequent travelers, it provides valuable benefits like increased earnings on JetBlue purchases, generous sign-up bonuses, and other travel-related perks.

Cardholders earn points on every dollar spent. For JetBlue purchases, you earn 6 points per dollar, significantly more than the typical 1-2 points from most other credit cards. Frequent JetBlue flyers will appreciate how quickly these points accumulate, leading to free flights, seat upgrades, and more.

Rewards and Benefits: What Makes JetBlue Plus Stand Out?

The JetBlue Plus card's rewards scheme is a major draw. As mentioned, you earn 6 points per dollar on JetBlue purchases, allowing you to rack up rewards quickly. Additionally, you earn 2 points per dollar on restaurant and grocery store purchases, and 1 point on other purchases.

This card is ideal for regular JetBlue flyers. JetBlue flights are often reasonably priced, and earning points on each purchase can significantly add up. Points are redeemable for flights, seat upgrades, and vacation packages, offering great value for frequent travelers.

New cardholders earn 70,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 within the first 90 days. This bonus can be worth up to $1,000 in airfare, depending on your flight's cost.

Cardholders and up to three companions get a free first checked bag on JetBlue flights, saving around $30 per person per flight, which can justify the annual fee for frequent travelers.

JetBlue Plus Card: Costs and Fees

While the JetBlue Plus card offers solid benefits, it comes with costs. The annual fee is $99, comparable to other travel rewards cards. For many, the value of the rewards and benefits outweighs this fee, especially if you frequently fly with JetBlue.

Be aware of the 3% foreign transaction fee, which can be a drawback for international travel. However, since JetBlue is primarily a domestic airline, this may not affect most cardholders.

If you carry a balance month-to-month, the card has a variable APR ranging from 22.99% to 29.99%, depending on your creditworthiness. This is typical for travel rewards cards, but consider it if you can't pay off your balance in full each month.

JetBlue Plus Card vs. Other Travel Rewards Cards

The JetBlue Plus card offers attractive benefits, but how does it compare to other travel rewards cards?

Compared to cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Capital One Venture Rewards, the JetBlue Plus card is somewhat limited in benefits. While it excels in rewards for JetBlue purchases and travel perks, it lacks the flexibility of cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred, which allows point transfers to various airline and hotel partners.

If you frequently fly with JetBlue, the JetBlue Plus card is a better option due to its higher rewards rate on JetBlue purchases. The Chase Sapphire Preferred or Capital One Venture may be better for those flying with multiple airlines or seeking more flexible point usage.

The JetBlue Plus card offers a straightforward rewards structure, beneficial for those who prefer simplicity. Other cards can have more complex rewards, making the JetBlue Plus card's consistent rewards for specific purchases appealing.

Conclusion

The JetBlue Plus card is excellent for frequent JetBlue travelers, offering solid rewards, a generous sign-up bonus, and perks like free priority boarding. Its straightforward earning structure and travel benefits make it ideal for those loyal to the airline. However, the annual fee and foreign transaction fee may concern international travelers. If you fly JetBlue regularly, this card offers great value, but if you prefer flexible rewards or travel abroad often, other cards might suit your needs better. Overall, it's perfect for JetBlue frequent flyers.