7 Best Credit Cards for Maximizing United Flight Rewards in 2024

7 Best Credit Cards for Maximizing United Flight Rewards in 2024 - United Gateway Card Offers 20,000 Mile Bonus

The United Gateway Card has recently introduced a 20,000-mile bonus for new cardholders, a compelling incentive for those looking to rack up miles quickly. To earn the bonus, you'll need to spend $1,000 on purchases within the first three months of opening your account. The card's earning structure favors United-centric spending with 2 miles per dollar earned on United purchases, gas, and commuting costs, while other purchases earn a standard 1 mile per dollar.

This card stands out for its lack of an annual fee, which contrasts with other United cards that charge annual fees after the first year. That makes it a potentially more appealing option, particularly for casual flyers or those who might only fly United occasionally. Furthermore, United Gateway Card holders enjoy a 25% rebate on purchases made in-flight, adding a further advantage.

A 0% introductory APR for the first year also adds to the attractiveness for some individuals. It’s worth noting that the APR reverts to a variable rate after the initial period, though. The Gateway Card's appeal, ultimately, rests in its straightforward structure of earning miles primarily for United-related expenses, without the pressure of maintaining high spending thresholds or paying annual fees.

The United Gateway Card presents an entry-point into the United MileagePlus ecosystem, attracting travelers with a 20,000-mile signup bonus for spending $1,000 within the first three months. This bonus, worth about $180 based on current mile valuations, provides a decent kickstart for those building a travel rewards portfolio.

Cardholders accrue miles at a 2x rate on United purchases, gas, and commuting, essentially offering a modest return on routine expenses. The card earns 1 mile per dollar on everything else. An initial 0% APR on purchases for the first year is certainly appealing, but after that, it reverts to a variable APR range of 21.99% to 28.99%, which is something to keep in mind.


This card is entirely fee-free, making it an attractive option for those who prioritize value and avoiding unnecessary charges. Compared to options like the United Explorer Card, which carries an annual fee, the Gateway card is appealing for its simplicity.

It's worth noting the 20,000 mile offer is aimed at new cardholders, and likely not applicable if you've recently received a United card bonus. The earning structure is most appealing for those who frequently utilize United, benefiting the most from the 2x earning rate. Ultimately, it's a worthwhile consideration for budget-conscious travelers looking to accumulate miles with United, particularly if their spending patterns align with the card's earning categories.

The Gateway card's primary advantage seems to be the 25% rebate on in-flight food purchases. While seemingly trivial, it could lead to cumulative savings over the course of multiple flights. However, the appeal of this benefit might diminish based on individual travel habits and the frequency of their in-flight snack or meal spending.

A critical perspective requires understanding the finer details. While miles don't expire with regular account activity, understanding the intricacies of award bookings is crucial for truly optimizing the program. Searching for award availability can be challenging at times, and understanding the United MileagePlus program structure and its potential changes is key to successfully utilizing the card's rewards. Travelers should be careful of United's potential hidden fees for things like phone bookings and itinerary changes. It's always advisable to carefully review the terms and conditions of any card before signing up to avoid unexpected surprises.

What else is in this post?

1. 7 Best Credit Cards for Maximizing United Flight Rewards in 2024 - United Gateway Card Offers 20,000 Mile Bonus
2. 7 Best Credit Cards for Maximizing United Flight Rewards in 2024 - United Explorer Card Waives First Year Annual Fee
3. 7 Best Credit Cards for Maximizing United Flight Rewards in 2024 - United Quest Card Provides 60,000 Mile Welcome Offer
4. 7 Best Credit Cards for Maximizing United Flight Rewards in 2024 - United Club Infinite Card Grants VIP Lounge Access
5. 7 Best Credit Cards for Maximizing United Flight Rewards in 2024 - Chase Sapphire Preferred Card Offers Flexible Redemption Options
6. 7 Best Credit Cards for Maximizing United Flight Rewards in 2024 - United Club Business Card Targets Frequent Business Flyers
7. 7 Best Credit Cards for Maximizing United Flight Rewards in 2024 - United Quest Card Earns Triple Miles on United Purchases

7 Best Credit Cards for Maximizing United Flight Rewards in 2024 - United Explorer Card Waives First Year Annual Fee

The United Explorer Card is currently offering a compelling incentive for new cardholders: a waived annual fee for the first year. This essentially removes the initial barrier to entry, allowing individuals to experience the card's benefits without upfront costs. To sweeten the deal, new cardholders can earn a significant 50,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 in the first three months. Based on current valuations, these miles are worth roughly $675, providing a nice boost for those looking to build up their travel rewards.

The Explorer Card's perks are geared towards frequent United flyers. You'll get 7 miles per dollar spent on United flights, 2 miles on other United purchases, and 4 miles for hotel bookings made through United. It also provides some tangible benefits such as free checked bags, which is a welcome perk for anyone who regularly checks luggage, and two passes to the United Club lounges. Being able to jump the queue with priority boarding can save time and hassle on busy travel days.

Of course, after that initial grace period, the $95 annual fee kicks in. It's crucial for potential cardholders to consider their annual United flight spending habits. Will the perks, including the bonus miles, offset the cost of the annual fee in the long run? The Explorer Card can certainly be a useful tool for the right traveler, but those who aren't frequent United customers might find it less compelling. Ultimately, the decision boils down to your individual travel patterns and the value you place on these specific card features.

The United Explorer Card offers a compelling entry point into the United MileagePlus program, particularly for those new to the system. One of its most attractive features is the **waiver of the first-year annual fee**, which is typically $95. This allows new cardholders to explore the card's benefits without the immediate burden of an annual cost. It's a smart move for United, as it removes the immediate financial hurdle that could prevent some travelers from signing up.

New cardholders are also enticed by a substantial **welcome bonus of 50,000 bonus miles** after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first three months. Based on current estimations, those 50,000 miles are worth approximately $675, which could translate to a significant discount on future flights, possibly even a one-way international ticket. While appealing, the spending requirement is still a significant hurdle for some, and the value of the miles is always subject to change, so it's important to understand those factors.

The card's earning structure isn't confined solely to flights. It offers **7 miles per dollar spent on United flights**, a strong incentive for those who frequently fly United. This rate is beneficial, but only if you're someone who travels primarily on United. For other purchases, such as hotel stays booked through United Hotels, it earns 4 miles per dollar. The card also earns 2 miles per dollar on other United purchases, which offers a somewhat modest boost compared to some other cards. In some ways, the card's earning structure feels somewhat tied to United's larger ecosystem.

Another perk is the inclusion of **two United Club one-time passes**, which can provide access to airport lounges for a limited period, offering a taste of the premium experience. Also appealing to many is the **priority boarding** benefit, a nice little perk that is always appreciated. These two perks are nice, and they potentially create a positive experience, but the focus is always on United's services and network.

One benefit that holds tangible value is the **inclusion of a free checked bag** for the primary cardholder and any accompanying passengers on the same reservation. This perk can provide noticeable savings, especially on longer trips or when traveling with more luggage. The savings here are likely worth $30-35 per bag on a round trip, adding to the immediate appeal for those concerned with baggage fees.

Interestingly, the card also **waives foreign transaction fees**. This is a benefit that will resonate with international travelers and removes a cost element often hidden from view. But the card's earning structure doesn't seem to favor spend outside of United's ecosystem, which potentially makes its appeal more focused to frequent United flyers.


The United Explorer Card, while presenting a strong value proposition, is not without its potential pitfalls. One aspect worth considering is the **limited flexibility in earning and redeeming miles** if you're not a dedicated United flyer. It's important to assess if this earning structure truly aligns with individual travel patterns and preferences.

It's notable that NerdWallet and The Points Guy have recognized the card for its rewards and benefits structure. It's a decent card, but some might argue that other options with broader travel flexibility and a more diverse set of partner airlines may be more compelling for some travelers. While the Explorer card provides value, it's vital to carefully consider individual travel needs before committing to any credit card.

It seems the United Explorer Card is geared towards those who frequently use United and benefit from the various perks associated with the United ecosystem. The card's earning structure is tightly coupled with United, which will appeal to some, but may not be as appealing for those who travel on a wider variety of airlines. While the card is advertised as being a strong option for many, travelers should carefully consider the implications of the card's structure and benefits to ensure that it genuinely fits their travel needs.

7 Best Credit Cards for Maximizing United Flight Rewards in 2024 - United Quest Card Provides 60,000 Mile Welcome Offer

The United Quest card has recently introduced a compelling 60,000-mile welcome bonus for new cardholders, a significant incentive for those aiming to accumulate miles rapidly. To unlock this bonus, you'll need to spend $4,000 on purchases within the first three months. This card sits in the middle ground of United's credit card offerings, appealing to travelers seeking a balance between valuable rewards and a reasonable annual fee of $250.

Beyond the enticing miles bonus, the Quest card also offers 500 Premier qualifying points, contributing towards elite status within the MileagePlus program. Additionally, cardholders can enjoy the perk of free checked bags for themselves and their travel companions on United flights, which is a noteworthy benefit for those who typically pack baggage.

However, it's crucial to assess if the card's perks truly align with your travel habits. The $250 annual fee, although partially offset by a $125 United flight credit, needs to be weighed against the benefits. The earning structure favors United spending, with the ability to accrue up to 8 miles per dollar on flights.

While the card provides a respectable opportunity to accumulate miles and unlock various perks, like complimentary lounge access and concierge services, the question remains whether the Quest card's features justify the annual cost for your personal travel patterns. With numerous other credit card options available, each with unique earning structures and benefits, it is important to evaluate if the United Quest card's features fit your particular travel profile and the value you assign to its specific benefits. The decision hinges on a thorough examination of your spending habits and expected travel within the United MileagePlus ecosystem.

The United Quest Card currently offers a 60,000-mile welcome bonus after spending $4,000 within the first three months of account opening. This bonus, based on current mile valuations, could translate to a travel credit of roughly $900 or more, a substantial amount for those looking to maximize travel rewards. It's interesting to note that these miles are quite flexible and not solely tied to United flights. You can potentially use them for upgrades and even car rentals, offering more versatility in how you utilize the accrued value.

The Quest Card also provides a 500 Premier qualifying point bonus after fulfilling the spending requirement. However, the card comes with a $250 annual fee. Fortunately, there's a $125 United flight credit applied as a statement credit annually, essentially reducing the net annual fee to $125. This offsets some of the cost, but it's important to evaluate if the remaining $125 is worth the services.

United-centric spending is rewarded with potentially higher earn rates. You can accrue up to 8 miles per dollar on United purchases, a combination of 5 miles for the fare and 3 additional miles for the whole purchase. This is intriguing, though it's crucial to assess if this aligns with your regular travel habits. Hotel stays booked through United Hotels earn 4 miles per dollar, and all other travel and dining purchases earn 2 miles per dollar, creating some broader opportunities to earn rewards.

An intriguing perk are two annual 5,000-mile award flight credits. These credits help offset the cost of the annual fee, but the usefulness of this is dependent on your overall travel frequency and planned routes. Also, similar to the United Club Infinite Card, the Quest Card includes complimentary first and second checked bags for the cardholder and traveling companions. This certainly makes the card appealing if you're a regular traveler who usually checks luggage.

The United Quest Card sits between the more accessible Explorer card and the high-end United Club Infinite card. This suggests it aims to provide a balanced set of features and a reasonable fee structure for those looking for more than just the basic options, but who might not be as frequent a traveler as someone who would want the United Club Infinite. The card also comes with concierge services, which might be valuable for some travelers.


While the 60,000 miles offer provides a clear initial incentive, it's important to consider if your spending and travel patterns really benefit from this card's structure. The features are interesting and could add value for some people. However, it's also important to be aware of how United's program potentially evolves, and how other programs from competitor airlines compare. The program's intricacies are certainly something to keep in mind when considering the card's benefits. Understanding when and how to redeem miles and potential hidden fees is also important. Always review the fine print.

7 Best Credit Cards for Maximizing United Flight Rewards in 2024 - United Club Infinite Card Grants VIP Lounge Access

The United Club Infinite Card distinguishes itself by providing access to United's airport lounges, a perk typically reserved for frequent flyers with elite status. While carrying a $525 annual fee, the card bundles in a complimentary United Club membership valued at $650, making it a potentially attractive option for those who regularly utilize United's network and seek a comfortable pre-flight experience. The card's appeal is further bolstered by the opportunity to earn a generous 9x miles on United purchases, alongside a range of benefits that include travel insurance and the potential to accrue bonus points toward elite status. Overall, this card presents itself as a premium option for committed United travelers aiming to enhance their experience and maximize rewards. Nonetheless, potential cardholders should carefully assess if the card's feature set aligns with their personal travel needs and if the benefits justify the higher annual cost, considering alternative United cards available at lower fees.

### United Club Infinite Card: A Deep Dive into VIP Lounge Access

The United Club Infinite Card, with its $525 annual fee, includes complimentary United Club membership, which for non-elite members has a standalone value of about $650 annually. This raises the immediate question of whether the card's other benefits justify that cost.

The card's appeal centers on access to a substantial network of over 45 United Club locations and various affiliated lounges globally. This potentially offers a more comfortable and efficient travel experience, especially in busy airports. Research suggests that lounge access can lead to reduced travel stress and provide a more relaxed environment.

An interesting feature is the card's guest policy. United Club Infinite members can bring two guests or immediate family members into the lounges free of charge. Many other programs limit this or charge substantial guest fees. This adds to the card's value, especially for families or travelers who frequently travel with companions.

Another perk is expedited security access in some airports. This feature can save a significant amount of time, particularly during peak travel times. While the exact time saved will vary based on the airport and time of day, research suggests an average of roughly 30 minutes saved.

This card also includes several travel insurance protections that can be useful in a variety of circumstances. This includes benefits such as trip cancellation, lost luggage, and travel accidents. These insurance policies can provide significant financial protection against potential issues that may arise during travel. These policies typically cover about 5-10% of the overall travel costs, with average costs ranging based on destination and travel duration.

Beyond insurance, cardholders can potentially receive invitations to special travel-related events. These types of events can create unique travel experiences and provide opportunities for networking with other travellers. Research shows that networking, when done correctly, can significantly improve business and personal growth.

While United is the core focus, the card's earning potential extends to other categories. Spending at restaurants and hotels also earns a respectable 3 miles per dollar. This is worth considering for individuals who travel frequently and make regular purchases in these categories, making the earning potential more lucrative than many standard credit cards.

An intriguing aspect for international travelers is the lack of foreign transaction fees. For anyone who makes a large number of purchases overseas, this can lead to substantial savings. Avoiding those fees can help eliminate up to 3% from each international transaction, something worth considering when choosing a travel-focused credit card.

The United Club Infinite Card also offers access to a large network of Star Alliance partner lounges in addition to United's locations. This increases the potential value of the card for those who utilize international travel and fly on a wider variety of partner airlines.

The card also includes priority boarding. This feature can be useful for reducing travel stress and ensure a more efficient boarding process, especially during peak travel seasons. Studies show that boarding early provides more space for carrying luggage and helps to reduce anxiety.

The United Club Infinite Card clearly offers a significant array of benefits tailored towards frequent United flyers. Its lounge access, travel insurance, and other associated perks could be of substantial value for those who travel frequently and value convenience and added comfort. But, as always, it's vital to assess if the cost of the card aligns with the traveler's habits and needs.

7 Best Credit Cards for Maximizing United Flight Rewards in 2024 - Chase Sapphire Preferred Card Offers Flexible Redemption Options

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card distinguishes itself by offering a wide range of ways to use your accumulated points. This flexibility makes it a strong contender for those who want to get the most out of their travel rewards. You can move your points to a variety of airline and hotel loyalty programs, which expands your options when booking trips. The card also shines in specific areas like travel and dining purchases, offering bonus points that can quickly accumulate. With no fees for international purchases and helpful travel insurance, it caters to travelers of all levels, from occasional weekend getaways to frequent globe-trotting. The card often has attractive introductory bonus offers that are worth considering, adding to its overall competitiveness in the rewards card market. While it isn't specifically tied to United Airlines, it provides a good balance of versatility and value for those looking for more flexibility beyond the world of airline-specific credit cards.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred card distinguishes itself with its flexibility in redeeming points, a feature that makes it stand out among travel rewards cards. You can use your points for a variety of options, from straightforward travel purchases to gift cards and cash back. You even have the ability to leverage their partnership with programs like United Airlines, providing some additional options to explore.

One interesting aspect is that the value of your points can be boosted for certain uses. When redeeming points for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal, you'll get a 25% boost, effectively making each point worth 1.25 cents. This can potentially make your travel rewards much more impactful when compared to straight cash back, though you have to be mindful of how you redeem to realize this increased value.

Furthermore, Chase Sapphire Preferred points can be transferred to more than 14 airline and hotel loyalty programs. If you want to get creative, the possibility of transferring to the United MileagePlus program is present, opening up doors for potentially better redemption options within that program for flights or hotel stays. The ability to move your points to multiple partners gives you more options to utilize them in the way that provides the best overall value.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred card's points are part of a larger ecosystem, called Ultimate Rewards. This essentially means that if you happen to have other Chase cards that also earn Ultimate Rewards points, you can pool them together to help reach rewards faster. This aspect could become particularly interesting to those who are more strategic in how they utilize their credit card options.

The card's primary earning structure favors travel and dining expenses, providing double points for purchases in these categories. If you're someone who spends a lot on eating out or traveling, it can be a relatively efficient way to build up your point balance.

Interestingly, the card has a distinct benefit when booking travel: there are no blackout dates. Some airline loyalty programs, like United MileagePlus, can be tricky to deal with because they sometimes have these restrictions, while the Chase Sapphire Preferred card won't put you in that position.

To enhance your experience, the card has a mobile application where you can manage points and travel bookings on the go. This integration is useful for quickly accessing your rewards, booking trips, or even changing plans, though it's something that will only be useful if you do use a mobile app.

The point redemption system extends beyond traditional travel, encompassing experiences such as dining and special events. If your travel style is more inclined towards trying out unique dining or local experiences, you might find the Chase Sapphire Preferred card a good option to consider.

If you're a foodie, you might appreciate the card's focus on culinary adventures. It includes access to special dining events or experiences, which sometimes feature fixed price meals or access to well-known chefs. This could be a good option if you're looking for something a bit out of the ordinary for a travel experience.

Lastly, the card comes with certain insurance features that provide security while traveling. Some of these benefits, such as trip cancellation or interruption insurance, can potentially cover up to $10,000 per person. This extra layer of protection could provide some peace of mind while on the go, especially if you're a nervous traveler.

While the Chase Sapphire Preferred card seems versatile, it is critical to acknowledge that the value of your rewards and options will always depend on the ways you use it and if you can really maximize the various options it offers. It's always prudent to evaluate your travel habits, preferences, and overall strategy to ensure this card really is the right option for your travel style and what you value when traveling.

7 Best Credit Cards for Maximizing United Flight Rewards in 2024 - United Club Business Card Targets Frequent Business Flyers

The United Club Business Card is designed with the frequent business traveler in mind, particularly those who rely on United Airlines for their journeys. It comes with a $450 annual fee, a cost that some might consider before applying. New cardholders are lured with a 50,000 bonus mile and 1,000 Premier qualifying points (PQP) offer after spending a certain amount. This card has a strong focus on United, offering primary cardholders and up to two guests complimentary access to United Clubs, a perk that's valued at up to $650 yearly. This could be especially useful for someone who appreciates the convenience and quiet space before a flight. Other perks include two free checked bags per trip when flying with United, which is appealing to business travelers who often carry more baggage. The overall value of this card ultimately depends on how frequently you use United and if the perks offset the higher annual fee. It's certainly worth looking into if you're a devoted United flyer, but some may find similar benefits with other cards at a lower cost.

The United Club Business Card is geared towards individuals who frequently fly with United for business purposes, offering a compelling package of benefits beyond typical travel rewards. One interesting aspect is that it offers a 25% rebate on in-flight purchases, which could accumulate over time for those who regularly use this option.

While the card has a $450 annual fee, it also comes with a substantial sign-up bonus of 50,000 miles and 1,000 Premier qualifying points. This can make the card appealing for those who can meet the spending requirements, since miles tend to be worth roughly 1.2 to 1.5 cents each when redeemed. This equates to a decent discount on future flights.

The earning structure is geared towards maximizing rewards for business spending. Cardholders earn double miles on United purchases and 1.5x miles on all other purchases. This means that things like office supplies, phone services, or other business-related spending can quickly add up to a sizable amount of miles. It's worth comparing this to the reward rates on more standard credit cards.

For many, a key feature is the included access to United Club locations. Access to lounges can noticeably improve the travel experience, reducing stress and potentially even boosting productivity before flights. This is a perk that many travelers find highly valuable.

The card's ability to help towards elite status with United MileagePlus is noteworthy. Every purchase, no matter how small, can contribute towards accumulating Premier qualifying points, and these points can lead to further benefits like upgrades and other rewards.

Spending with United airlines itself yields up to 3 miles per dollar, which is notably higher than the rate of some competing airline cards. This can be a compelling feature if United is your airline of choice.

International business travel can also be significantly enhanced with this card, thanks to the lack of foreign transaction fees. For those who frequently make international purchases, this feature can be a powerful cost-saver, potentially preventing the accrual of otherwise hidden expenses.

The United Club Business Card also includes features often overlooked. For example, the card offers auto-rental collision damage waiver coverage, which can be an asset for business travelers who often need transportation at their destinations.

Businesses also can leverage the ability to add employee cards with no extra charge. This feature allows a business to consolidate spending and reward accumulation on one account, potentially improving the overall efficiency of the card.

Lastly, cardholders get access to a dedicated business customer service line. This can streamline the process for resolving travel issues or making adjustments to plans, offering a helpful backup when things don't go as anticipated.

The United Club Business Card is a multifaceted tool targeted at a specific traveler segment. It’s important to assess whether the card's benefits and features truly align with your personal travel habits and if the annual cost can be justified in relation to your spending and travel frequency. While it’s an interesting tool, it’s always wise to compare the card with the other United credit cards available, considering your individual needs and preferences when deciding on a travel reward card.

7 Best Credit Cards for Maximizing United Flight Rewards in 2024 - United Quest Card Earns Triple Miles on United Purchases

The United Quest Card has become a notable choice in 2024, particularly for those who frequently fly United. Its core attraction is the triple miles earned on United purchases, a strong incentive for accumulating miles quickly. New cardholders can earn a substantial 60,000 bonus miles, along with 500 Premier qualifying points, after spending $4,000 in the first three months. This approach pushes users to delve more deeply into the United MileagePlus ecosystem. While the card comes with a $250 annual fee, it somewhat mitigates this expense with a $125 annual credit for United purchases, a benefit many will find helpful. Adding to the card's attractiveness are the perks like free checked bags for the first two checked pieces for you and your travel companions. The card’s earning structure can yield up to 8 miles per dollar spent on certain United purchases, making it a tempting option for building up your rewards balance quickly. However, a key consideration for potential applicants is the importance of assessing whether the card's benefits truly align with their individual travel patterns and if the annual fee and other conditions are worthwhile in comparison to other travel cards on the market.

The United Quest Card presents a compelling proposition for those seeking to accrue United MileagePlus miles, particularly with its generous 60,000-mile welcome bonus. This bonus, based on current valuations, can translate to a substantial travel credit of around $900, which is a powerful incentive for those looking to quickly build their travel rewards portfolio.

One of the Quest card's primary strengths is its high earning potential. You can potentially rack up 8 miles per dollar on United purchases, a combination of base miles and card-specific bonuses. This translates into a much faster route to accumulating miles compared to other cards which might limit their rewards.

Furthermore, the Quest card isn't just about accumulating miles; it also offers a path towards higher status within the MileagePlus program. New cardholders receive 500 Premier qualifying points upon fulfilling the minimum spending requirement. This offers a faster route to elite status, making it attractive for those who frequently fly United and seek the perks that come with it, like upgrades and exclusive benefits.

The annual fee for the Quest card, at $250, might initially seem high. However, the $125 annual United flight credit effectively reduces the net annual fee to $125. This offset helps to make the card more appealing, particularly for those who regularly fly United and would be using this credit.

Aside from flight-related advantages, the card offers concierge services, providing personalized travel assistance. This might be a helpful feature for those who find booking flights or arranging complex travel itineraries to be a hassle.

For those who typically check bags, the complimentary first and second checked bags for themselves and companions can lead to significant savings. While it's always important to assess individual travel habits, the potential savings of up to $70 per round trip could help justify the cost of the card's annual fee for some.

One distinctive aspect of the United Quest Card is the two annual 5,000-mile award flight credits. These credits can be applied toward the cost of specific flights, potentially offsetting some of the expenses associated with travel.

It's essential, though, to carefully consider the potential pitfalls associated with United's award booking process. While the miles themselves can be useful for a variety of options, travelers should be aware that United might add fees for certain booking types or changes, which can somewhat dampen the appeal of using these accumulated miles.

The United Quest card isn't only about United flights. It provides a decent return on other travel and dining expenses, granting 2 miles per dollar on all other purchases. This might make it more appealing to users who don't always fly United but want to earn miles on other travel or everyday spending habits.

Finally, as with any rewards card, users should carefully consider if the card aligns with their travel preferences. The card rewards United-focused travel quite heavily, making it less ideal for those who often travel on other airlines. While it offers the possibility to get a decent return on other travel spending, a deeper dive into one's travel patterns and preferred airline preferences is a necessity before choosing this credit card.