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United Explorer Card card art
Chase · united

United Explorer Card

4.3 / 5
United MileagePlus miles · Personal card

The default card for anyone who flies United a few times a year. The checked-bag benefit alone covers the fee for most, and the April 2026 bump to 3x on United purchases sweetened it.

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At a glance

Issuer terms
Welcome bonus
50,000 miles
Spend $3,000 in 3 months
Annual fee
$150 (waived first year)
Waived first year
Purchase APR
21.49% to 28.49%
No intro APR
FX fee
None
Rates accurate as of
Editorial

Our take

The default card for anyone who flies United a few times a year. The checked-bag benefit alone covers the fee for most, and the April 2026 bump to 3x on United purchases sweetened it.

Verdict

Pros & cons

Pros

  • First checked bag free for two on United
  • 3x on United purchases since April 2026
  • Two annual United Club passes
  • Primary rental car coverage

Cons

  • $150 fee after the first year
  • United miles are dynamically priced
  • Credits require enrollment and tracking
Earnings

Earn rates

CategoryRateNotes
United purchases3x milesRaised from 2x in April 2026.
Hotels direct2x milesHotel stays booked directly.
Dining2x milesIncluding eligible delivery services.
All other purchases1x miles
Benefits

Key benefits

Free first checked bag

For you and one companion on the same reservation, worth up to $200 per roundtrip.

2 United Club passes a year

One-time passes deposited each anniversary.

Priority boarding

Board before general boarding on United flights.

Fit

Who this is best for

  • United flyers who check bags
  • Travelers who want primary rental coverage on an airline card
  • Occasional United Club visitors
FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What is the United Explorer welcome bonus?
Earn 50,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Does the United Explorer charge an annual fee?
Yes. The annual fee is $150, waived for the first year.
Does the United Explorer have a foreign transaction fee?
No. The United Explorer charges no foreign transaction fee, so it works well for international purchases.
What APR does the United Explorer charge?
The purchase APR is 21.49% to 28.49% variable.
Who is the United Explorer best for?
United flyers who check bags. Travelers who want primary rental coverage on an airline card. Occasional United Club visitors.
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United Explorer Card

Spend $3,000 in 3 months
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Rates accurate as of June 10, 2026. Issuer terms.