Upgrade Your Travel Experience: 6 Reasons to Switch to Chase Sapphire Reserve
When it comes to travel rewards credit cards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® stand out as two of the most popular options. While both cards allow you to earn valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards points, they cater to different types of travelers. The Sapphire Preferred is an excellent mid-tier option, but it lacks many of the premium perks that come with its more luxurious counterpart, the Sapphire Reserve.
With a significant annual fee difference—$795 for the Sapphire Reserve compared to $95 for the Sapphire Preferred—it’s essential to weigh the benefits carefully. Recent changes now allow you to hold both cards simultaneously, but that doesn’t mean it’s the right choice for everyone. Here are six compelling reasons to consider upgrading from the Sapphire Preferred to the Sapphire Reserve.
1. Access to Exclusive Airport Lounges
One of the most appealing benefits of the Sapphire Reserve is access to airport lounges. Traveling can be hectic, and having a comfortable space to unwind before your flight is invaluable. While the Sapphire Preferred does not offer any lounge access, the Sapphire Reserve grants entry to a variety of lounges, including those operated by Priority Pass. Authorized users on the Sapphire Reserve account can also enjoy this perk, making it a great option for frequent travelers.
2. Enhanced Trip Delay Insurance
Travel disruptions can happen unexpectedly, and having adequate insurance coverage is crucial. The Sapphire Preferred offers up to $500 per ticket for delays of at least 12 hours. In contrast, the Sapphire Reserve provides the same amount of coverage but kicks in after just six hours. This means that if your trip is delayed, you can be reimbursed for essential items like meals, transportation, and accommodation much sooner, providing peace of mind during your travels.
3. More Valuable Point Redemption Options
Both cards allow you to redeem points through Chase Travel℠, but the Sapphire Reserve offers a more lucrative redemption rate. With the Points Boost feature, you can redeem points at a value of up to 2 cents per point with the Sapphire Reserve, compared to a maximum of 1.75 cents with the Sapphire Preferred. While the difference may seem small, it can add up significantly, especially when booking high-value travel experiences.
4. Superior Earning Potential
When it comes to earning points, the Sapphire Reserve takes the lead. It earns 4 points per dollar spent on travel and dining, which translates to an impressive 8.2% return based on current valuations. The Sapphire Preferred, while still rewarding, earns only 2 points per dollar on travel. If you frequently book flights and hotels directly, the Sapphire Reserve is the more advantageous choice, especially if you book travel through Chase Travel, where you can earn 8 points per dollar.
5. Automatic Hotel Elite Status
For those seeking hotel elite status, the Sapphire Reserve offers automatic IHG One Platinum Elite status, valid through December 31, 2027. This status comes with numerous benefits, including bonus points on stays, complimentary upgrades, and flexible check-in and checkout times. If you often stay at IHG properties, this perk alone can justify the upgrade.
6. Valuable Statement Credits
The Sapphire Reserve also provides an impressive array of statement credits, totaling over $2,000 in annual value when fully utilized. These credits cover a variety of categories, including dining, travel, and entertainment, making it easier for cardholders to take advantage of them. In contrast, the Sapphire Preferred offers only a $50 annual hotel statement credit for bookings made through Chase Travel. If you can utilize even a portion of the credits offered by the Sapphire Reserve, the annual fee becomes much more manageable.
How to Upgrade to the Sapphire Reserve
If you’re considering making the switch to the Sapphire Reserve, there are a couple of ways to do so. The first option, which I recommend, involves downgrading your Sapphire Preferred to a no-annual-fee card like the Chase Freedom Flex® or Chase Freedom Unlimited®. After waiting a week, you can then apply for the Sapphire Reserve. This method may allow you to qualify for the Sapphire Reserve welcome bonus if you haven’t received it before.
Alternatively, you can directly convert your Sapphire Preferred to a Sapphire Reserve through a product change. While this method is more straightforward, you won’t be eligible for the welcome bonus. To initiate either process, simply call the number on the back of your card or log in to the Chase app to send a secure message.
Keep in mind that the Sapphire Reserve is a Visa Infinite card, requiring a minimum credit limit of $10,000. If your Sapphire Preferred doesn’t meet this threshold, you may need to request a credit limit increase first.
Final Thoughts
For frequent travelers, upgrading to the Sapphire Reserve is often justified due to its extensive perks, including lounge access, higher point redemption rates, and valuable statement credits. While the Sapphire Preferred remains a solid option for casual travelers, those who fly multiple times a year or seek premium benefits will find greater value in the Sapphire Reserve.
If you’re ready to enhance your travel experience, consider applying for the Chase Sapphire Reserve today. Your adventures await!
