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IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card vs Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
This comparison aims to provide an informative overview of the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card and the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card from Chase. By examining their features, rewards, and benefits, you can make a more informed decision about which card aligns better with your financial goals and spending habits.
Card Overviews
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
The IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card is designed for frequent travelers who prioritize hotel stays at IHG properties. The card offers significant rewards for hotel spending and valuable perks for IHG loyalists, including bonus points and elite status.
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card caters to travelers who frequently fly with Southwest Airlines. This card provides solid rewards on airline purchases and additional perks that enhance the travel experience, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize air travel.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card | Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $99 | $69 |
| Welcome Bonus | Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months | Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | Up to 26 points per $1 at IHG Hotels, 5 points on travel, gas, and restaurants, 3 points on other purchases | 2X points on Southwest purchases and local transit, 1 point on other purchases |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | None specified | None specified |
| Additional Benefits | Anniversary Free Night, Automatic Platinum Elite status, Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit | 3,000 anniversary points, 2 EarlyBird Check-In each year |
Rewards Highlights
- Earn 140,000 Bonus Points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
- Earn up to 26 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts.
- Earn 5 points per $1 spent on purchases on travel, at gas stations, and restaurants.
- Earn 3 points per $1 spent on all other purchases.
Pros and Cons
IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
- Pros:
- High earning potential for IHG hotel stays
- Anniversary Free Night reward
- Automatic Platinum Elite status benefits
- No foreign transaction fees
- Cons:
- Higher annual fee compared to some other hotel cards
- Points are primarily valuable within the IHG ecosystem
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card
- Pros:
- Lower annual fee
- Generous welcome bonus
- Points can be used for free flights and upgrades
- No foreign transaction fees
- Cons:
- Limited to Southwest Airlines and partners
- Lower earning potential on non-travel purchases
Who Should Consider Which Card?
- IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card: Ideal for individuals who frequently stay at IHG hotels and want to maximize their rewards and benefits related to hotel stays.
- Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card: Best suited for travelers who primarily fly with Southwest Airlines and prefer earning points for flights and travel-related expenses.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card and the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Plus Credit Card depends on your individual needs and spending patterns. Consider where you travel most often and how you prefer to earn and redeem rewards when making your decision.