Chase Sapphire Preferred Review: 60,000-Point Sign-Up Bonus, Top Travel Perks and No Foreign Transaction Fees

Why the Chase Sapphire Preferred stands out

The Chase Sapphire Preferred is a mainstream travel credit card that packs a powerful 60,000-point sign-up bonus after $4,000 in purchases within three months. Those Ultimate Rewards points are flexible and worth about $750 when redeemed through Chase Travel, making the signup bonus one of the best values for new cardholders.

Beyond the bonus, the card waives foreign transaction fees, has a modest $95 annual fee, and provides a strong mix of everyday and travel benefits. For travelers and food lovers in the United States looking for a high-value, no-frills rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Preferred is a top contender.

Earning, redeeming, and transfer partners

Earning with the Chase Sapphire Preferred is straightforward: 3x points on dining, 5x points on travel booked through Chase, and 2x points on other travel. You also earn 3x on select streaming services and online grocery purchases, letting you rack up Ultimate Rewards on routine spending as well as trips.

Redemption options are versatile. Points are worth 1.25 cents each through the Chase portal, and you can transfer points at a 1:1 ratio to airline and hotel partners like United, Southwest, JetBlue, Hyatt, Marriott, and IHG. With smart transfers, point value often exceeds portal redemptions, especially for premium flights and luxury hotel stays.

Costs, limits, and ideal cardholder

The $95 annual fee is modest compared with premium travel cards, and many cardholders recoup it quickly via the sign-up bonus and ongoing rewards. Be mindful of the variable APR, which can be high if you carry a balance, so this card makes the most sense if you pay in full every month.

This card is best for frequent flyers, hobbyist travelers, and diners who want flexible rewards without foreign transaction fees. You’ll generally need good to excellent credit to qualify, and if you want airport lounges or a larger travel credit, a higher-tier card might be a better fit.

Maximizing value: practical tips and final take

To squeeze the most value from the Chase Sapphire Preferred, use it for dining and travel, book through the Chase portal for 1.25 cents per point, and transfer points to partners for premium cabin redemptions or aspirational hotel stays. Time transfers around award availability and promotions to boost point value.

If you travel internationally or eat out frequently in the U.S., this card delivers a strong return on everyday spending plus excellent travel flexibility. Apply if you want a high-signup bonus, no foreign transaction fees, and Ultimate Rewards versatility that can be the backbone of your travel strategy.