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Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card
The New United℠ Explorer Card

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card vs The New United℠ Explorer Card

This comparison aims to help you decide between the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card and The New United℠ Explorer Card. Both cards offer unique benefits tailored to different travel preferences and spending habits. Below, you will find a detailed overview of each card followed by a feature comparison to assist in your decision-making process.

Card Overviews

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card is designed for frequent travelers who prefer to stay at Marriott properties. With a strong rewards structure and benefits that enhance hotel stays, this card is ideal for those who value hotel loyalty and rewards.

The New United℠ Explorer Card

The New United℠ Explorer Card caters to United Airlines travelers and offers benefits that enhance the flying experience. With perks like free checked bags and priority boarding, this card is great for those who frequently fly with United and seek travel-related benefits.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Feature Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card The New United℠ Explorer Card
Annual Fee $95 $0 Intro Annual fee for the First Year, then $150
Welcome Bonus Earn 3 Free Night Awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) plus 50,000 bonus points after qualifying purchases. Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
Rewards Structure Earn up to 17X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. 2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays when booked with the hotel; 1x mile on all other purchases.
Foreign Transaction Fee None None
Other Fees None specified None specified
Additional Benefits 1 Free Night Award (valued up to 35,000 points) every year after account anniversary; 15 Elite Night Credits annually, automatic Silver Elite status. Free first checked bag; priority boarding; up to $120 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS fee credit.

Rewards Highlights

The New United℠ Explorer Card Rewards

  • Debut Offer: Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
  • 2x miles on United® purchases, dining, and hotel stays when booked with the hotel.
  • 1x mile on all other purchases.

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card Rewards

  • Earn up to 17X total points per $1 spent at thousands of hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy® with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Card.
  • Earn 3X points per $1 on the first $6,000 spent in combined purchases each year on grocery stores, gas stations, and dining.
  • 2X points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

Pros and Cons

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

  • Pros:
    • Strong rewards for hotel stays.
    • Annual free night award enhances value.
    • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Cons:
    • Annual fee after the first year.
    • Best rewards primarily at Marriott properties.

The New United℠ Explorer Card

  • Pros:
    • No annual fee for the first year.
    • Free checked bag for United flights.
    • Strong earning potential for airline-related expenses.
  • Cons:
    • Higher annual fee after the first year.
    • Limited rewards outside of United purchases.

Who Should Consider Which Card?

The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card is perfect for travelers who frequently stay at Marriott hotels and can take advantage of the annual free night award and elite night credits. On the other hand, The New United℠ Explorer Card is better suited for those who fly with United Airlines, offering benefits like free checked bags and priority boarding, making it ideal for regular flyers.

Conclusion

Both cards offer unique benefits tailored to different travel preferences. When deciding between the two, consider your travel habits, the types of rewards that matter most to you, and how often you utilize the card for purchases. Choose the card that aligns best with your individual needs and spending patterns.

“Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.”