Unlock Premium Rental Car Benefits with the Chase Sapphire Reserve
If you rent cars a few times a year, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and the Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business℠ stand out as top choices, offering a range of benefits that can enhance your travel experience. Both cards provide significant rewards on rental car bookings, along with an annual travel credit and comprehensive insurance coverage that can save you money and hassle.
Here’s a breakdown of why the Sapphire Reserve cards are the best premium options for rental cars, tips for maximizing their benefits, and key details to keep in mind.
Exceptional Rewards on Rental Cars
One of the standout features of the Sapphire Reserve cards is the ability to earn 8 points per dollar spent on all Chase Travel purchases, including rental cars. This applies to accounts opened after June 23 and existing cardholders starting October 26. For frequent travelers, this point-earning potential can lead to substantial rewards.
For instance, when I searched for a rental car in Chicago, Chase offered an intermediate car through Hertz for $95 a day. Booking through Chase Travel would earn 3,016 Chase Ultimate Rewards points, valued at approximately $62, based on TPG’s September 2025 valuations. In contrast, booking directly with Hertz would cost around $97 for a prepaid rate or $135 for a pay-later option, without the flexible cancellation policy that Chase offers.
Annual Travel Credit
Both the Sapphire Reserve and Sapphire Reserve for Business come with an annual $300 travel credit. This credit is particularly valuable because it applies to a broad range of travel purchases, not just those made through Chase Travel. However, it’s important to note that you won’t earn bonus points on any portion of your purchase that is covered by the credit. For example, if you rent a car for $300 and use your travel credit, you won’t earn points on that amount.
Comprehensive Insurance Coverage
One of the most significant advantages of the Sapphire Reserve cards is the primary rental car insurance they offer. Cardholders must decline the rental company’s collision damage waiver to utilize this benefit, which covers rentals for up to 31 consecutive days. This can save you between $35 and $60 per day compared to purchasing insurance from the rental agency.
The coverage provides reimbursement for damages up to $75,000 for theft or collision, and it applies worldwide. However, it’s essential to understand that this coverage does not extend to personal injuries or damages to other vehicles or objects. Additionally, the Sapphire Reserve for Business card’s primary insurance only applies to rentals for business purposes, while personal rentals are covered as secondary.
Visa Infinite Perks
Both Sapphire Reserve cards come with the Visa Infinite designation, which offers additional advantages when renting cars. Cardholders can access benefits such as upgrades, discounts, and unique offers from rental car agencies. If you have elite status with rental companies like Avis or National, these perks can further enhance your experience.
When considering whether to book through Chase Travel or directly with a rental agency, weigh the potential for earning points against any discounts or upgrades you might receive by booking directly. If the price difference is minimal, opting for Chase Travel can lead to better rewards.
Conclusion
The Chase Sapphire Reserve and Sapphire Reserve for Business cards offer exceptional earning potential, travel credits, and industry-leading insurance coverage for rental cars. If you frequently rent vehicles, these cards can help you accumulate valuable points while enjoying peace of mind with comprehensive insurance.
For more detailed information, consider reading our full reviews of the Sapphire Reserve and the Sapphire Reserve for Business. By choosing the right card, you can transform your travel experiences and unlock incredible rewards along the way.
