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United℠ Explorer Card: Travel Smarter, Earn Faster, and Fly Better

Earn MileagePlus® miles, enjoy elite travel perks, and save big on every United flight—without paying a fee your first year.

  • Generous Welcome Bonus

  • New cardholders can earn a hefty welcome bonus—typically 60,000 MileagePlus® miles—after spending a designated amount in the first three months. That’s enough for multiple round-trip domestic flights or a one-way international trip. United miles offer great flexibility and access to both United flights and Star Alliance partners, expanding your redemption options worldwide. This bonus kickstarts your MileagePlus journey with serious momentum, and because miles don’t expire, you can plan for that dream trip on your own timeline.

  • Free First Checked Bag + Priority Boarding

  • Fly United and enjoy your first checked bag free, saving up to $140 per round-trip for two passengers. That benefit alone can cover the card’s future annual fee. Additionally, you’ll receive priority boarding, allowing you to settle in early and secure overhead bin space. These perks add convenience and comfort to every journey, especially for frequent flyers and families who travel with luggage.

  • 2x Miles on Key Categories

  • Earn 2 miles per dollar spent on United purchases, as well as at restaurants and hotel stays booked directly—giving you more ways to earn even when you’re not in the air. All other purchases earn 1x. Whether you’re dining out or booking accommodations, you’ll be collecting rewards that take you closer to your next trip faster than many competing travel cards.

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Things to Know Before You Apply

  • $95 Annual Fee After the First Year
    While the first year is free, the card carries a $95 annual fee thereafter. However, this cost is easily offset by the value of the free checked bag, priority boarding, and United Club passes. If you fly with United more than once or twice per year, the perks outweigh the fee quickly.

  • Best Suited for United Flyers
    The Explorer Card’s strongest benefits are tied to United Airlines flights and loyalty. If you frequently fly with other airlines, you might not benefit as much from the card’s features. That said, MileagePlus miles can still be redeemed with Star Alliance partners, keeping your travel options open worldwide.

How to Apply for the United℠ Explorer Card in Minutes

Applying for the United℠ Explorer Card is quick, easy, and completely online. You can begin the process through Chase’s official website or the United Airlines site. Be ready to enter personal and financial details such as your name, address, income, and Social Security number. A credit score in the good to excellent range (typically 690+) is recommended. Chase may also factor in your 5/24 status, which could affect your approval if you’ve opened 5 or more cards in the past 24 months. Many applicants receive an instant decision, and once approved, you’ll receive your card within 7–10 business days.

If you fly United Airlines even occasionally, the United℠ Explorer Card is a smart and valuable addition to your wallet. Issued by Chase, one of the most trusted financial institutions in the U.S., this card is backed by advanced fraud protection, real-time alerts, purchase protection, and excellent customer service. You can feel confident knowing your account is safe and well-supported.

This card delivers exceptional travel value, starting with a generous welcome bonus that can get you multiple free flights right out of the gate. As you continue to use the card, you’ll earn 2x miles on United purchases, restaurant spending, and hotel bookings—helping you rack up rewards quickly. These miles are redeemable not only on United but also with Star Alliance partners, opening the door to over 1,000 global destinations.

You’ll also enjoy elite-style perks that make travel more convenient and enjoyable. Get your first checked bag free for you and a companion, priority boarding to avoid overhead bin chaos, and two United Club passes every year to make your airport experience more relaxing. These benefits alone could save hundreds annually.

There are no foreign transaction fees, making this card a great choice for international travelers. Whether you’re traveling for business, family visits, or bucket-list vacations, this card works hard for you every step of the journey.

Even with the $95 annual fee after year one, the perks far outweigh the cost if you travel with United more than once or twice a year. From earning rewards to enhancing your airport experience, the United℠ Explorer Card is built for travelers who want more comfort, convenience, and flexibility without breaking the bank.

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