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Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card vs The New United℠ Explorer Card
This comparison aims to help users decide between the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card and the The New United℠ Explorer Card. Both cards offer unique benefits and rewards tailored to different travel preferences.
Card Overviews
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is designed for frequent travelers who prefer Southwest Airlines. It offers a robust rewards program, including anniversary points and travel credits, making it an excellent choice for those who fly regularly with Southwest.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
The New United℠ Explorer Card caters to travelers who frequently use United Airlines. With attractive welcome bonuses, benefits like free checked bags, and priority boarding, this card is ideal for those who want to enhance their travel experience with United.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card | The New United℠ Explorer Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $149 | $0 Intro Annual fee for the First Year, then $150 |
| Welcome Bonus | Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months | Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months |
| Rewards Structure | 3X points on Southwest® purchases; 2X points on local transit, internet, cable, phone services, and select streaming | 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 | N/A | N/A |
| Additional Benefits | 7,500 anniversary points, $75 travel credit each year | Free first checked bag, priority boarding, two one-time passes to United Club℠ |
Rewards Highlights
- 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.
Pros and Cons
Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card
- Pros:
- Generous welcome bonus and anniversary points.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Travel credits help offset annual fees.
- Cons:
- Annual fee is higher than some competitors.
- Rewards are limited to Southwest Airlines.
The New United℠ Explorer Card
- Pros:
- $0 introductory annual fee for the first year.
- Free checked bag offers significant savings.
- Priority boarding enhances travel experience.
- Cons:
- Higher spending requirement for the welcome bonus.
- Annual fee after the first year adds to travel costs.
Who Should Consider Which Card?
- The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card is ideal for:
- Frequent Southwest Airlines travelers.
- Individuals seeking to maximize points earning on Southwest purchases.
- The New United℠ Explorer Card is suitable for:
- United Airlines loyalists looking for premium travel perks.
- Travelers who value benefits like free checked bags and priority boarding.
Conclusion
Both the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card and The New United℠ Explorer Card offer unique benefits tailored to different travel needs. Consider your individual spending habits and travel preferences to choose the card that best fits your lifestyle.