The United Club Infinite Card is a premium travel credit card tailored for frequent flyers who prioritize comfort and luxury. It offers exclusive perks such as United Club membership, free checked bags, and additional travel benefits to enhance your journey. However, with its high annual fee, many wonder if it truly justifies the cost. In this review, we’ll break down the card's features, benefits, and downsides to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your travel lifestyle and spending habits.
Features of the United Club Infinite Card
Annual Fee
The United Club Infinite Card comes with an annual fee of $525, which is relatively high. While this may seem costly, effectively utilizing the card's benefits can offset the fee.
Rewards Program
You earn 4x United miles per dollar for purchases with United, 2x for travel and dining, and 1x for all other purchases. These miles can be used for flights, lodging, car rentals, and more within the United Airlines system. There's also a sign-up bonus of up to 100,000 miles following initial purchases.
United Club Membership
The standout feature of this card is the United Club membership, valued at $650 annually. This membership grants access to over 45 United Clubs and Star Alliance partner lounges, offering free drinks, food, and Wi-Fi before your flight.
Travel Benefits
The United Club Infinite Card provides several travel perks to enhance your journey:
- Priority check-in: Skip long lines with priority check-in.
- Premier upgrades: Enjoy complimentary upgrades on United-operated flights when available.
- Global Entry or TSA Precheck fee credit: Receive a statement credit every four years for Global Entry or TSA Precheck application fees, expediting airport security.
- Free checked bags: You and one companion can each check one bag for free when traveling on the same reservation.
Other Perks
Additional perks of the United Club Infinite Card include:
- Annual $100 statement credit for United purchases: This can help offset the annual fee if you frequently fly with United.
- Hertz President's Circle Elite status: Enjoy benefits like car upgrades and expedited service with Hertz rentals.
- Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection: Receive complimentary room upgrades, early check-in, late checkout, and other exclusive amenities at select luxury hotels and resorts.
Downsides of the United Club Infinite Card
Despite its attractive features, the United Club Infinite Card may not be suitable for everyone. Here are some downsides to consider:
High Annual Fee
With a steep annual fee of $525, it may not be worth it for occasional travelers or those who primarily fly with airlines other than United.
Limited Redemption Options
United miles are not as versatile as some other airline rewards programs. The miles required for flights can vary based on demand due to United's dynamic award pricing.
Not Ideal for Non-Travel Spending
The card's earning rates are more focused on travel-related purchases. If you're looking for high rewards on groceries, gas, or other everyday expenses, this may not be the best choice.
Comparison With Other Travel Cards
Let's compare the United Club Infinite Card with other popular travel credit cards to see if it's worth it.
Chase Sapphire Reserve
The Chase Sapphire Reserve, with a $550 annual fee, offers similar benefits like lounge access, Global Entry/TSA Precheck fee credit, and trip cancellation/interruption insurance. Its points can be transferred to multiple airline and hotel partners for increased redemption opportunities.
American Express Platinum
The American Express Platinum has a $695 annual fee and offers perks like lounge access, Uber credits, and hotel elite status, although it lacks the airline-specific benefits of the United Club Infinite Card.
Citi Prestige
The Citi Prestige, with a $495 annual fee, offers perks like lounge access and Global Entry/TSA Precheck fee credit, but with lower earning rates and fewer travel benefits than the United Club Infinite Card.
How to Apply for the United Club Infinite Card
If you've decided that the United Club Infinite Card is right for you, follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the Chase website and click on Credit Cards.
- Select the United Club Infinite Card and click on Apply Now.
- Fill out the application with your personal information, including income and employment details.
- Review and submit your application.
- Wait for Chase to decide on your application status.
Is the United Club Infinite Card Worth It?
The United Club Infinite Card can be a valuable asset for frequent travelers, especially those who regularly fly with United. Its generous rewards program, lounge access, and travel benefits make it worth considering if you can maximize its value. However, the high annual fee and limited redemption options may not suit everyone’s spending habits and travel preferences. Consider these factors carefully before deciding if this card is right for you.
Conclusion
The United Club Infinite Card offers a range of benefits and perks tailored to frequent travelers who value luxury and comfort. With its high annual fee, it may not be suitable for everyone, but for those who can take advantage of its rewards and benefits, it can be a valuable asset. Be sure to consider your spending habits and travel preferences before deciding if this card is right for you. Do your research and choose the card that best fits your lifestyle and needs. Happy travels!
