The recent update to the Chase Sapphire Preferred card's bonus categories has introduced a new and exciting opportunity for travel enthusiasts: earning points on vacation homes booked directly through select brands. This addition has sparked excitement among travelers, especially those who enjoy staying in vacation homes with family and friends. With a generous earning rate of 3 Chase Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on vacation homes booked directly with popular brands like Airbnb and Vrbo, the Sapphire Preferred card is now an even more attractive option for maximizing travel rewards.
What makes this bonus category particularly appealing is the flexibility it offers. Unlike booking through the Chase Travel portal, which earns 5 points per dollar spent, booking directly with these brands provides a wider range of options and often better availability. This is a significant advantage, as it allows travelers to choose from a variety of vacation homes that suit their preferences and needs.
One of the standout features of this new bonus category is the potential for stacking rewards. By linking your accounts with various airline programs, such as ANA Mileage Club, British Airways Club, Delta SkyMiles, and Qantas Frequent Flyer, you can earn bonus points or miles on top of the Ultimate Rewards points. This stacking capability is a game-changer, as it allows travelers to maximize their earnings and potentially redeem points for even more valuable travel experiences.
However, it's important to note that not all vacation home bookings are eligible for the 3 points per dollar earning rate. Charges like secondary cleaning fees and purchases made with merchants outside the six eligible booking platforms are not included. To ensure you're earning the maximum points, it's best to make your reservations directly with one of the approved brands and cover all other charges in your booking.
When comparing the Sapphire Preferred's bonus category to competing cards, it becomes clear that it offers a competitive advantage. Cards like the Ink Business Preferred and American Express GreenCard also offer earning rates on vacation homes, but the Sapphire Preferred's 6.2% return on spending, coupled with its annual fee of $95, makes it a strong contender. Additionally, the Sapphire Preferred's earning rate on vacation homes is higher than the 2% cash back offered by the Citi Double Cash Card, making it a more attractive option for those looking to maximize their travel rewards.
In the debate between vacation homes and hotels, the Sapphire Preferred's bonus category provides a clear winner. While hotels booked through Chase Travel earn 5 points per dollar spent, vacation homes booked directly with select brands earn 3 points per dollar spent. This means that for every dollar spent on a vacation home, you'll earn more points than on a hotel booking. This is a significant advantage, especially for those who frequently stay in vacation homes.
In conclusion, the Chase Sapphire Preferred's new bonus category for vacation homes is a game-changer for travel enthusiasts. With its high earning rate, flexibility, and potential for stacking rewards, it offers a compelling reason to consider this card for your travel needs. Whether you're an Airbnb enthusiast or looking for alternative accommodation options, this bonus category is definitely worth exploring. So, if you're in the market for a new travel card, the Sapphire Preferred should be at the top of your list.
