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13 Valuable Benefits of the United Explorer Card

- UPDATED: May 11, 2022 |

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For those who fly with United Airlines regularly or even just several times per year, the United℠ Explorer Card has some benefits that can save you money and improve your travel experience.

These benefits extend beyond earning points and into different protections that can ensure you are reimbursed for some problems you might face during your travels.

This co-branded credit card is provided by Chase and falls under the Chase 5/24 rule, so keep that in mind when you are making your credit card decisions.

Let’s dive in and take a look at the many benefits of the United Explorer Card.

Table of contents

United Explorer Card Overview
United MileagePlus Benefits
Travel Protections
Final Thoughts

Table of Contents

United Explorer Card Overview
United MileagePlus Benefits
Travel Protections
Final Thoughts

United Explorer Card Overview

United MileagePlus Benefits

United Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, so there’s a good chance you’ll find yourself flying with them at some point. You might as well make the experience enjoyable!

Hot Tip: See our in-depth review of United Airlines here.

1. Earn More Miles With United Airlines

Unfortunately, United Airlines now awards MileagePlus miles for flights based on how much you spend on the flight in conjunction with your elite status. Here’s a breakdown of how miles are earned for flying with United:

United Elite Status Level	MileagePlus Miles Earned per Dollar Spent
Member	5x miles per dollar
Premier Silver	7x miles per dollar
Premier Gold	8x miles per dollar
Premier Platinum	9x miles per dollar
Premier 1K	11x miles per dollar

However, with the United Explorer Card, you can earn an extra 2X miles per dollar whenever you book a flight with United Airlines.

This means that as just a general member of MileagePlus, you’ll earn 7X miles per dollar on all flights purchased with United Airlines. If you’re a Premier 1K member, you’ll earn 13X miles per dollar when you book your flights with United.

Hot Tip: Check out the best ways to earn tons of United miles, and you’ll be booking amazing trips before you know it!

With all the miles you earn, you can redeem your United miles for some amazing flights such as Lufthansa first class, one of the most luxurious in-flight experiences (complete with champagne and caviar!).

2. Earn More Miles at Hotels and Restaurants

Earns 2x miles per dollar at hotels and restaurants.

3. Extra Award Space

Once you earn enough United miles, you’ll be ready to hunt for some award space to book flights for your next vacation.

If you are looking for an economy class award, holding the United Explorer Card gives you a big advantage as you will have access to extra economy class award space.

Cardholders also have access to standard level awards whenever there is a seat available on a flight. Typically, this perk is only available to those who have earned elite status. While this is a very poor use of points (you should always look for saver level awards), the ability to book an award seat at any time can be very useful in a pinch.

4. Free Checked Bag With United Airlines (up to $100/Round-Trip Value)

United baggage fees — As a cardholder, you will receive 1 free checked bag for you and a companion if you book with your United Explorer Card.

As a cardholder, you can save tons of money on your flights with United Airlines with the free checked bag benefit. If you purchase your flight on United with the United Explorer Card, you and 1 companion on your itinerary will each receive a free checked bag.

Unlike other airline co-branded credit cards, you are required to use the United Explorer Card to pay for the flight if you want to be eligible to receive your free checked bag.

5. United Club Passes ($108/Year Value)

United Club Hong Kong — Enjoy access to United Clubs with your annual passes thanks to the United Explorer Card Image courtesy of United.

Airports can be hectic places, especially during busy travel seasons, but a reprieve in an airport lounge can turn a normally stressful experience into a relaxing one.

Once approved for the United Explorer Card, you will receive 2 single-use United Club passes. You’ll continue to receive 2 passes every year you keep the card.

6. Priority Boarding

Flights are often very full these days, and the situation on United Airlines is no different. With the United Explorer Card, you will receive priority boarding access to help ensure there is overhead space for your carry-on bag.

This benefit can be particularly useful if you have a tight connection or obligations shortly after arrival such as a meeting.

7. 25% Off In-Flight Purchases

Get 25% back on United inflight Wi-Fi, food and drinks.

8. Elite Status Spend Waiver

United credit cardholders can earn Premier qualifying points (PQP) through their annual credit card spend and for 2021 can apply this earned PQP toward Premier 1K status.

The United Explorer card earns 500 PQP for every $12,000 spent, up to 1,000 PQP in a calendar year.

Hot Tip: Other Chase United credit cards have varying PQP earning capabilities — visit United’s MileagePlus cardmember update page for more details and terms and conditions.

With Premier 1K elite status, you’ll have access to Star Alliance business class lounges as a Star Alliance Gold member when you travel abroad, even when flying in economy class. This can be particularly nice before a long flight or when connecting abroad.

In fact, if you are departing from the U.S. on a trip to Europe, Southeast Asia, Australia, etc., you’ll even have access to United Clubs and you won’t have to use one of your 2 complimentary United Club passes.

9. Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or Nexus Credit (Up to $100 Value)

Every 4 years receive a credit of up to $100 for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or Nexus enrollment/renewal.

Travel Protections

The United Explorer Card doesn’t just help you earn and redeem United miles. In fact, it can even help when your flights don’t go as planned. Let’s discuss a few of this card’s benefits that can protect you when things go wrong.

10. Trip Delay Insurance

As frustrating as it can be, flights get delayed sometimes. With the United Explorer Card, you are entitled to trip delay insurance if your flight is delayed by 12 hours or overnight.

When you book your flights with this card, you are entitled to reimbursement of up to $500 in reasonable expenses that can include hotel accommodations, ground transportation to and from the airport, and meals.

Make sure you request and receive documentation from the airline so you can submit your claim and get reimbursed.

11. Baggage Delay Insurance

Baggage Claim Area Lost Delayed Luggage — With the bag delay insurance that comes with the United MileagePlus® Explorer Card, you can rest easy.

Another frustration travelers occasionally face is a delay in the arrival of their checked bags. If you booked your flight with the United Explorer Card and your bags are delayed by at least 6 hours, you are entitled to reimbursement.

This benefit covers essential items such as toiletries, clothing, and even a charging cable for your cell phone. Chase will reimburse you up to $100 for each day that the bag doesn’t arrive (up to $500).

12. Lost Luggage Coverage

Taking things a step further, in the unfortunate event that your bags are not just delayed but lost, you are also covered by Chase. Whether it is a checked bag or a carry-on bag, each passenger is eligible for up to $3,000 in reimbursement.

13. Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance

If your trip is cut short or canceled because of severe weather or illness (plus some other situations), you could be eligible for up to $6,000 in trip interruption or cancellation insurance.

This coverage includes reimbursement for pre-paid, non-refundable common carrier travel expenses.

Final Thoughts

It’s clear from the start that the United Explorer Card can help you earn more United miles to book award travel. But with perks such as increased economy class award space and the elite status spending waiver, it brings a lot more to the table than just the ability to earn miles.

To top it off, holding the United Explorer Card ensures that you are protected during your travels, so you don’t have to stress about flight delays and problems with your checked and carry-on bags.

If you plan on flying with United Airlines even just a few times per year, the United Explorer Card can save you a ton of money on checked bag fees, make booking award flights easier, and protect you from some unforeseen events during your travels.

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock

Frequently asked questions

Do miles earned with the co-branded United credit cards count toward elite status?

No, the points earned with the Chase United cards are redeemable for award flights but do not help you earn status.

Can you transfer United MileagePlus miles to other airlines or hotels?

No, MileagePlus miles must be used to book award flights with United Airlines.

Can you have more than one co-branded United credit card?

Yes.

What points can be transferred to Rapid Rewards points?

Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer to United almost instantly at a 1:1 ratio. SPG Starpoints transfer to United at an awful 1:0.5 so it’s best to avoid doing so.

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About Spencer Howard

Always a fan of flying, it was only natural that Spencer was drawn to finding a way to improve the travel experience. Like many, he started this journey searching for cheap flights to take him around the world. This was fun for a while, but Spencer was intrigued by the idea of flying in business and first class! Throwing himself into what became an extensive research project, Spencer spent 3-4 hours per night learning everything he could about frequent flyer miles over the course of several months (he thinks this is normal).

Disclaimer: Any comments listed below are not from the bank advertiser, nor have they been reviewed or approved by them. No responsibility will be taken by the bank advertiser for these comments.

117 comments

patrick March 6, 2019
I have the Explorer card but wondering if I still receive priority boarding if I used a different credit card to purchase the ticket. My Mileageplus number is in the reservation and my Explorer card is in my MP profile. TIA.
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton March 6, 2019
  Hi Patrick, thanks for the question. You will receive priority boarding even though you used another card to pay for the ticket. Thanks also for mentioning that you have your MileagePlus number in the reservation because that is a key factor. You will not receive a free checked bag, however.
  Reply
  - John H July 14, 2022
    Priority boarding will not work if purchase ticket with another card. United must have changed policy as United agent states the ticket must be purchased with Chase card to get priority boarding.
    Reply
    - Christine Krzyszton July 15, 2022
      You are correct, John. It is now required to use the United card to receive the benefit, not simply have the United MileagePlus card in the reservation.
      Reply
Cynthia Purdy March 19, 2019
I just received my United Explorer card. I made my reservation using my old United Mileage Plus Visa, but I paid for the travel insurance for that flight on United’s website today using the new Explorer card. Will this get me free checked bag?
Reply
- Stephen Au March 19, 2019
  Cynthia,
  You most likely will not get the free checked bag. As per the terms and conditions, you must purchase the actual ticket with your card.
  Reply
Kay coon April 9, 2019
Can I use my United Explorer card miles to upgrade on a cruise that was paid for using my Explorer card?
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton April 10, 2019
  Hello Kay. If you booked through the MileagePlus Cruise Award website, you could ask them if it is possible. If you booked through another cruise company, you would not be able to upgrade with United miles. Here is the website link for redeeming your United miles for a cruise and securing an upgraded cabin: https://cruises.mileageplus.com/promotion/member-benefits.do
  Reply
Julie Patrick April 10, 2019
I purchased two RT tickets, one for my daughter and son-in-law, with my explorer credit card. Will the travel protection apply to them as well?
We will be on the same return flight but not the outgoing flight.
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton April 10, 2019
  Hi Julie. I accessed the Guide to Benefits for the Explorer Card and found that only immediate family is covered for travel protection benefits such as trip cancellation and trip interruption. The Guide to Benefits for the Explorer Card defines immediate family: “Immediate Family Member, means your Spouse or Domestic Partner and their children, including adopted children or step-children; legal guardians or wards; siblings or siblings in-law; parents or parents-in-law; grandparents or grandchildren; aunts or uncles; nieces or nephews.” You can read more about the United Explorer travel protections and the terms/conditions here: https://www.chasebenefits.com/unitedVW4
  Reply
JR April 11, 2019
How does the Explorer card compare to Amex cards in terms of travel protection? Is it comparable or better?
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton April 17, 2019
  Hello JR. The Explorer card will have trip interruption and trip cancellation coverages which are not currently offered on the Amex cards. You can review the Amex card travel benefits here to compare: https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/amex-travel-insurance-benefits-guide/
  Reply
Ronald April 19, 2019
If I use my miles for award travel and pay for the extra fees using my Explorer card, do I still get the travel benefits (priority boarding, free checked bag, etc)?
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton April 20, 2019
  Hello Ronald. Yes, you will receive the associated benefits when using your card to pay for award ticket fees. Be sure to put your MileagePlus number on the reservation. More information here: https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/baggage/chasebag.html and here: https://www.united.com/web/en-US/content/travel/airport/boarding-process.aspx
  Reply
  - Kevin June 12, 2022
    If I make a reservation via Chase UR and pay a small amount of the fare with my Explorer Card (majority CHASE UR points) , would I be able utilize benefits of the card by booking basic economy ? (priority boarding + bag)
    Flights from SYD-LAX are 59,000 when booked via Chase UR as opposed to 80K when transferring to UA. TIA!
    Reply
    - Christine Krzyszton June 12, 2022
      Hi Kevin. The terms and conditions state that to receive priority boarding and a free checked bag you must include your United MileagePlus number on the reservation and pay for the ticket with your card. The flight must also be operated by United or United Express. It also states that you can use miles for the flight and pay just the taxes and fees with your card and receive the benefits. I just read through the terms and conditions and I do not see that basic economy fares are excluded either. However, it is not clear to me if paying partially with your United card via the Chase Travel UR portal will trigger the perks. You could book, see what benefits are offered, then cancel within the 24-hour window if you do not see the free checked bag in your reservation once it shows up on United. You could also call United but both of these options are a pain. I am sorry I can’t give you a more definitive answer.
      Reply
Casey May 15, 2019
I also just got the United Explorer Card but I used a different credit card to purchase 4 basic economy tickets for me and my 3 friends (2 on one reservation and 2 individual reservations). Will I still receive priority boarding? If yes, do I just show my Explorer Card at the gate? My Mileageplus number is on the reservation. Thank you!
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton May 15, 2019
  Hi Casey. You should receive priority boarding as there is no requirement to purchase the ticket with your MileagePlus Explorer card for this benefit. Your frequent flyer number should trigger priority boarding as the card will be recorded in your profile. If your boarding pass does not reflect priority boarding, you can just show your card to the gate agent. You will not receive the free checked bag, however, as that benefit requires purchasing the ticket with your card. Have fun on your trip.
  Reply
Kerry May 17, 2019
I would like to know how much the trip interruption/cancel benefit is if you charge a trip on your MileagePlus Explorer card. I have a final payment due soon and would like to clarify this.
Also, is any trip accident/medical insurance included while on the trip ?
Site is a bit confusing as to exact amount of the coverage on this benefit.
Thanks.
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton May 17, 2019
  Hello Kerry. Trip cancellation and interruption benefits are included complimentary on your card and do cover you during your trip. These benefits, however, are not a substitute for comprehensive travel insurance. There are plenty of terms and conditions that come with the benefits provided with your card. Here is the guide to benefits for the card which will give you additional information. https://www.chasebenefits.com/unitedVW4
  Reply
  - Karen Didomenicis June 12, 2019
    I have the same question as Kerry, and the link at the bottom of your answer does not work for me. thanks.
    Reply
    - Christine Krzyszton June 13, 2019
      Hi Karen. There is no charge for trip interruption/cancellation insurance on the United Explorer card. The link to the guide to benefits unfortunately keeps timing out. You can call the number on the back of your card, log into your card account online and access the benefit guide there, or access the Guide to Benefits that came with your card to read the details for this coverage.
      Reply
Danny Doan June 3, 2019
Hi,
I just used my miles for award travel, and my Untied Explore Business Card to pay for the fees. I booked a total of 4 tickets for my family. Below is my itinerary:
1. Houston to London flight operated by United
2. London to Rome, flight operated by Lufthansa airline
3. Paris to Houston, flight operated by United
4.
I have a question about the free checked bag. Do I get 2 checked bags free, one for me and one for my companion even though I purchase 4 tickets for trip 1 and 3? For trip 2, will it be the same or I have to check with Lufthansa airline?
About the priority boarding: How do I know if I have the priority boarding?
Thanks so much for your help
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton June 3, 2019
  Hello Danny. Regarding your question about checked bags. Yes, you get one free checked bag for yourself and for one companion traveling with you. Make sure that your MileagePlus number is on your reservations because your United Explorer card will be tied to your frequent flyer number for the free checked bag and priority boarding. You can add your record locator number to this baggage calculator to determine if there are any additional baggage charges. Some codeshare flights do not afford free checked bags. Priority boarding should show up on your boarding pass when you check in for your flight. If it does not, you can just show your United Explorer card at the airport. https://www.united.com/web/en-US/content/travel/baggage/changed-bag-rules-optional-services.aspx
  Reply
Karen Schickedanz June 12, 2019
If I use my United Explorer card to book air travel for a river cruise and then have to cancel the trip due to illness, will the trip cancellation benefit also cover the cost of the cruise in addition to the airfare? (The cruise is being paid for by check.)
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton June 13, 2019
  Hello Karen. If the air travel was purchased separately from the cruise, the benefit would not be extended to include the cruise. You would need to have paid for some portion of your cruise with your United Explorer card to have coverage. However, you may have coverage with the cruise line. I would check with them.
  Reply
- Santosh August 8, 2019
  We are planning to travel internationally and purchase the tickets using our new Explorer card . We get 1 bag free but we are confused as to whether we will get a 2nd bag free. We are confused by the below statement on Chase site.
  “Explorer Cardmembers and Cardmembers with certain other United Chase Credit Cards will not get an additional free checked bag if there is no first checked bag service charge applicable to their international travel itinerary”
  Reply
  - Christine Krzyszton August 9, 2019
    Hi Santosh. If you’re traveling on an international itinerary that includes a free checked bag automatically, you do not get an additional free checked bag because you have the card. Here is an informative article on United’s baggage policies that you might find super helpful. https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/airlines/united-airlines-baggage-fees/
    Reply
Fran June 16, 2019
I have a United Plus Explorer card. I don’t see that ypy listed. It’s with chase bank. What benefits does that equate to?
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton June 16, 2019
  Hi Fran. I am not sure I understand your question. Would you please clarify?
  Reply
Wonju June 26, 2019
I just applied and got approved for the Explorer Card but won’t get my physical card until my upcoming United Flight. Can I show my credit card app to get priority boarding?
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton June 26, 2019
  Hello Wonju. I would just call United and see if it is tied to your MileagePlus number yet. Hopefully you gave your United MileagePlus frequent flyer number when you submitted the credit card application. I went into my MileagePlus frequent flyer account to see if my United Explorer Card was listed there as this may have been a way for you to find out, however I did not see it listed. So call and see if the two are connected yet then take a copy of your credit card approval with you as the back up plan. Not sure if it will work but no harm in trying. Good luck, Wonju.
  Reply
Kristin June 28, 2019
Do you offer one Free Companion ticket per year with the United Explorer Card?
Reply
- Erin Miller June 28, 2019
  Hi Kristin, please be advised we are not United, nor are we Chase Bank. However, you can find a list of basic perks for various United cards here – at this time it does not appear United/Chase offer a companion ticket on this card.
  Reply
Jimmy July 25, 2019
If I use my United Explorer card to purchase a United ticket from a discount ticket travel agent do I still have same benefits as if booked through United website?
Reply
- Andrew Kunesh July 25, 2019
  Hi Jimmy,
  Great question! United’s website notes that “unpublished fares, such as those purchased on priceline.com and Hotwire, are not eligible” for free checked bags. However, all fares booked direct with United are eligible for checked bags, priority boarding, and other credit card benefits.
  Reply
Quinton July 26, 2019
If I purchase a flight using the United Explorer Card (one free checked bag) and already have United Silver status (which grants me one free checked bag), do the checked bag allowances add up and I will be allowed 2 free checked bags?
Reply
- Catherine Luther July 26, 2019
  Hi Quinton,
  United’s terms and conditions state “Explorer Cardmembers and Cardmembers with certain other United Chase Credit Cards will not receive a free checked bag in addition to the free checked bag(s) awarded through their Premier status”. So you would only receive 1 free checked bag.
  Reply
Alex O. August 10, 2019
I used MileagePlus card to purchase 3 United Airline tickets for my family (wife and 2 children), but I myself will be flying to that destination on a different United flight (also purchased via this card).
I know that I will get the free checked bag, but what about her and one of the children? Again, they will be on a different flight from me.
Thank you for the help.
Reply
- Catherine Luther August 13, 2019
  Hi Alex,
  For a companion to receive the free checked bag benefit, they must be flying on the same reservation as the primary cardholder. So they would not get a free checked bag unfortunately.
  Reply
Anne August 11, 2019
I had to make 2 different reservations for a trip this month bringing my son to college. My husband and I are one 1 RT reservation and my son on a separate reservation all paid with our new United Explorer card. I do understand that my husband and I will get our first check in bag free. Since my son’s reservation is separate from ours, would he also get his first check in bag free as well or would we have to pay at the gate? If we do need to pay for his 1st bag, can this be pre-paid before we get to the airport? Lastly, would the 3 of us get priority boarding?
Reply
- Catherine Luther August 13, 2019
  Hi Anne,
  For a companion to receive the free checked bag benefit, they must be flying on the same reservation as the primary cardholder. So your son would not get a free checked bag unfortunately. This also applies to the priority boarding benefit – the cardholder must be on the same reservation.
  You can pre-pay for luggage online when you check-in from 24 hours before the flight.
  Reply
TERESA BUHLER August 18, 2019
I’m booking a multicity flight for myself and my spouse:
1. Denver to Barcelona
2. Stuttgart to Denver
I’m booking on Lufthansa using United Explorer card. I’ve also added my MileagePlus number to the reservation. Do I still have free baggage allowance or do I have to pay extra for baggage?
Reply
- Andrew Kunesh August 19, 2019
  Hey Teresa, your credit card benefits will not carry over if you’re booking a flight on Lufthansa. However, you should still get one free checked bag so long as you’re not traveling on a basic economy ticket. Lufthansa will tell you how many pieces of complimentary baggage is included with your ticket at checkout. Thanks for reading!
  Reply
Sam August 29, 2019
Thanks for the nice article. I have a couple of questions:
1. Many flights to Asia are offered as codeshare flights with Lufthansa and United. Do benefits apply when booking is made in United’s website, though the flights may be operated by Lufthansa or vice versa.
2. For Asian destinations 1 check in baggage is allowed for free in economy class. If we book with this card, does that mean an additional baggage will be allowed for free check in? Usually this additional baggage costs $100 if we don’t the card.
Reply
- Andrew Kunesh August 30, 2019
  Hey Sam, good questions. You must be traveling on United-operated flights in order to take advantage of the flight benefits. Further, you will receive one extra checked bag if your ticket to Asia already includes one checked bag—thanks!
  Reply
  - Mintz December 22, 2020
    Really – I saw elsewhere – on United baggage info site – stating only applicable to First Bag (within USA) – and doesn’t apply to 2nd bag
    And in addition – doesn’t apply to international flights.
    https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/baggage/chasebag.html
    International travel:
    Club and Presidential Plus Cardmembers will not get additional free checked bags if there are no first and second checked bag service charges applicable to their international travel itinerary.
    >>>Explorer Cardmembers and Cardmembers with certain other United Chase Credit Cards will not get an additional free checked bag if there is no first checked bag service charge applicable to their international travel itinerary.
    Reply
Himayun Mirza September 11, 2019
I bought my round-trip, basic economy domestic short flight using my United Explorer card. Will I be allowed a carry-on or just a tiny bag?
Thanks and regards,
HM
Reply
- Stephen Au September 11, 2019
  Hey Himayun,
  The in-cabin allowance is the same. You can bring 1 personal item (the “tiny bag”) but you can check in a bag for free. You won’t be able to bring it onto the airplane cabin with you, but it’ll be checked to your final destination and you can pick it up at baggage claim.
  Reply
Kaye September 11, 2019
So I generally get 2 checked bags free. When you say you get a free checked bag with the Explorer card, does that mean a third bag, since I already get 2 free? And is that just for the main card holder? Or authorized account user as well?
Reply
- Katie Seemann September 12, 2019
  Hi Kaye,
  How are you getting your first 2 checked bags free? I would need to know that to answer your question.
  The free checked bag from this credit card is for the main card holder only. Here’s United’s policy:
  “The primary Cardmember and one traveling companion on the same reservation are each eligible to receive their first standard checked bag free; authorized users are only eligible if they are on the same reservation as the primary Cardmember.”
  Hope that helps!
  Reply
Carl Albero September 24, 2019
Can’t you get gift cards for family and friends at places like Sephora, Chili’s or Panara Bread anymore? Why not?
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton September 24, 2019
  Hi Carl. This is an article about the benefits of the United Explorer Credit Card. I think you may be referring to redeeming your United MileagePlus miles. Here is a link to redeem miles for gift cards. https://giftcards.mileageplus.com/
  Reply
Kathy September 26, 2019
If you use the United Explorer Credit card To purchase your ticket on United and you have to change the flights to a later date, will they waive change fees?
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton September 26, 2019
  Hi Kathy. Unfortunately no. Waiving change fees is not one of the benefits of having the card.
  Reply
Edgar Nieto September 26, 2019
Hello, I booked a flight to NYC from Chicago on Basic Economy. I purchased it with my explorer card through Expedia. Credit Card was charged through United. Basic Economy restrictions apply where no full-sized carry-on bag on board is permitted. Since I made the purchase with the untied card will I still be able to bring on a carry-on? I also bought a ticket for my partner under the same reservation, with the card, will she be allowed to do a carry-on? Also I am assuming I get a free checked bag.
Reply
- Jarrod West September 29, 2019
  Hi Edgar,
  As long as your included your MileagePlus number then yes, you and your companion will each be able to bring a checked bag. The United card only included checked bags though, not a carry-on.
  Thanks for reading!
  Reply
Joan F Kiddie October 6, 2019
Hello. I’m traveling from San Francisco to S. Korea on United which includes 2 free checked bags. I purchased the flight with my Explorer card. Does that mean I get a third checked bag?
Reply
- Jarrod West October 6, 2019
  Hi Joan,
  Unfortunately not, that perk only applies to the first checked bag for you and a traveling companion. Since your two bags are already free, it does not extend to a third.
  Thanks for reading!
  Reply
priscilla costa October 8, 2019
Can I use my United credit card to purchase a flight with another airline?
Reply
- Jarrod West October 8, 2019
  Hi Priscilla,
  Yes, you can use your United credit card to purchase a flight with another airline.
  Thanks for reading!
  Reply
  - Mintz December 22, 2020
    But do you get the benefits – like Trip Cancellation/ Trip Interruption, Baggage Delay, etc. when using United Credit Card – while flying on another airline
    OR
    the benefits are only when flying with UNITED?
    Reply
Julie December 12, 2019
Do I receive priority boarding if I am just an additional user not the primary card holder?
Reply
- Jarrod West December 13, 2019
  Hi Julie,
  Unfortunately, that benefit is reserved for the primary cardholder.
  Thanks for reading!
  Reply
tom a December 27, 2019
I have the united explorer card. If I book reward travel through my Citi premier card with points on basic economy will I get a carry on bag and priority board with united?
Reply
- Jarrod West December 28, 2019
  Hi Tom,
  With the United Explorer card, you must pay for the flight with the card in order to get the baggage benefit. So, in the example you’ve provided, you would not receive a carry-on bag or priority boarding.
  Reply
Grace January 8, 2020
I am the cardholder of a United Explorer credit card. If I book and pay the following with my credit card:
A flight for my 2 sisters in San Antonio to flight to Houston where I would board the same flight that takes us all 3 to Las Vegas.
Would they receive priority boarding in San Antonio & also be allowed 1 carry on? Or would that only apply when I’m boarding the flight in Houston?
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton January 9, 2020
  Hi Grace. The terms and conditions state that 1 travel companion receives a free checked bag and must be on the same reservation as the cardholder. It appears that your sisters are on a separate reservation and different itinerary so they won’t get the free checked bag. It does sounds like a very fun trip, however.
  Reply
john milan sebik January 26, 2020
If I book a flight using my United card for me and 3 family members will I get all bags checked for free or only for me and my wife?
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton January 26, 2020
  Hi John. If you used your United Explorer card to pay for your flight, you will receive a free checked back. One additional passenger on the same itinerary will also receive a free checked bag.
  Reply
Dennis Douville February 21, 2020
If I pay for the TSA pre-check fee with my United Explorer Mileage Plus credit card will I get reimbursed for the cost automatically.
Reply
- Jarrod West February 21, 2020
  Hi Dennis,
  Yes, your card will be credited back for the application fee after the purchase is made.
  Reply
Carol February 23, 2020
We have a trip to Italy booked thru the Explorer card in two weeks. My husband had a run-in with a table saw and may need follow up surgery in this time frame. Should I try to just cancel? Or change the dates? Which option would cost less, if they are both possible?
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton February 23, 2020
  Hi Carol. Sorry to hear of your husband’s accident. Just give United a call and they can explain the options based on the type of ticket you purchased. Also tell them about
  your husband’s situation. It is possible they may be generous. You might just ask for a credit for a future purchase and then you can re-book when everything is settled and he
  is well enough to travel.
  Reply
June March 4, 2020
I have the old United MileagePlus card and the Explorer card. Since the old MileagePlus card has been downgraded and no longer gives me access to economy plus seats, but now gives me access to the United Club when flying with United, is it still worth keeping the old MileagePlus card.? I can’t seem to find a comparison chart to help me decide if I should keep or not.
Reply
- Jarrod West March 5, 2020
  Hi June,
  It really just depends on how much value you receive from the card. If you travel frequently and really value being able to access the United Club each time you do, then it might be worth holding onto the card.
  Reply
kamila nat March 18, 2020
Hello!
Thank you for this helpful article. I was wondering if I still get a free checked bag on Lufthansa flight , as it is a part of Miles and More same as United?
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton March 18, 2020
  Hello Kamila. The free checked bag benefit on the United Explorer card is is available only on United flights. Thank you for reading.
  Reply
vincent hendy April 19, 2020
Does anybody have any idea what date The Explorer Card benefit for Trip Interruption changed from $10,000 to $6,000
Reply
- Stephen Au April 20, 2020
  Hi Vincent,
  This change was from the previous version, known as the United MileagePlus Explorer card. Now, the maximum benefit is $6,000 per trip and $1,500 per person. Thanks for reading.
  Reply
Emma Dedyukhina April 30, 2020
Hello, in your overview of the United Explorer trip cancellation benefits you mention that hotel expenses are also subject to reimbursement under a covered event (in my case medical emergency). However, recently I was told by Chase that hotel coverage was dropped and they no longer reimburse hotel expenses. Are you aware of this change? When did it occur?
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton May 9, 2020
  Hello Emma. There was a new Guide to Benefits dated 12/1/2019 that shows the reduced benefit. We will update the article. Thank you for reading.
  Reply
Emma Dedyukhina May 4, 2020
Hello – do you know when did United Explorer card stopped covering hotel expenses as part of trip cancellation benefit on the card?
Reply
Guy De Pinto September 30, 2020
Is the up to 7x miles earned benefit a recent addition. I purchased 2 tickets on the United Explorer Card on June 20, 2019, and only received 2x times the cost of the tickets. If I had flown, from past experience, I would have gotten 1x for the flight for a total of 3x.
Please clarify.
Reply
- Jarrod West September 30, 2020
  Hi Guy,
  If you are a general United member, and purchase a standard economy ticket with your United Explorer card then you should receive 7x miles per $1 spent. 5x for your membership and 2x for your United card.
  Reply
Brian L October 7, 2020
Does the Business version of this card offer the same benefits, specifically extra Award Space?
Reply
- Stephen Au October 8, 2020
  Hi Brian!
  Thanks for your question.
  We’ve actually written a separate guide on the business version of the card. You can find it below:
  https://upgradedpoints.com/credit-cards/reviews/chase-united-mileageplus-explorer-business-card/
  Reply
Bob B. October 17, 2020
Does an Authorized User on a United Explorer card get the same benefits as the card holder? If the Authorized User logs in to their separate United account, will they get access to the additional award availability? Thanks
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton October 19, 2020
  Hi Bob. According to the terms and conditions, only primary cardholders have access to expanded award availability.
  Reply
Joanne Clawson November 1, 2020
If we use Celebrity Cruise Choice Air and book their United flight using our United credit card, do we still get a free checked bag?
Reply
- Jarrod West November 2, 2020
  Hi Joanne,
  If the flight is booked directly with United, then yes you should get your baggage benefit. If the booking is made through a third party then you will not receive the baggage benefit.
  Reply
Irma December 7, 2020
I just booked a basic economy international flight from Washington DC to Asia using the Explorer card. Now as a part of the standard ticket I get the 1st checked bag free and it says $100 for the second bag. As I am traveling on a United flight with this card, will my second bag be free under this benefit?
Reply
- Jarrod West December 8, 2020
  Hi Irma,
  Unfortunately, the benefit does not stack if you’re already receiving a checked bag for free. So you would still need to pay for the second checked bag.
  Reply
sg February 5, 2021
#9 is not applicable.
United miles no longer expire.
Reply
- Jarrod West February 9, 2021
  Hi sg,
  Thank you for pointing that out! I’ve updated the post to reflect that.
  Reply
vidy February 7, 2021
As all international tickets for United Airlines include one checked bag free, how will I get the benefit of a 2nd checked bag for free? Since the Explorer card is supposed to receive one free checked bag.
I am the primary cardholder and I am booking a return ticket from the US to Asia for myself, but for my family I am booking a one-way ticket. So I just wanted to understand, how can I combine 2 itineraries so that my family will also get the explorer card benefits such as a free checked bag, priority boarding, travel insurance, and all related benefits?
Reply
- Jarrod West February 15, 2021
  Hi Vidy,
  Unfortunately, United does not allow for “baggage stacking”, so if your flight already offers one checked bag for free, then you do not receive another free checked bag for being an Explorer cardholder.
  Other passengers on your itinerary will only receive the benefits of your United Explorer card when they are traveling with you. So your family will automatically receive those benefits on the first leg of the flight that you are on together.
  Reply
Jen Schimbeno February 12, 2021
Does anyone know the best way to get both spouses to achieve status? We run our finances joint within our household and have just one United credit card. Any time I fly without him I don’t get the perks. Even though we both operate off one card, because it’s in his name I don’t get the flight perks. It seems that this is something that I either am misunderstanding and can be added or they should change it to make the perks applicable to a joint holder credit card?
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton February 12, 2021
  Hi Jen. You are correct in that the primary cardholder and traveling companion receive the flight perks. Unfortunately, there is no provision for authorized users to have those perks. You would need your own United Explorer card or have elite status with United to receive a free checked bag and priority boarding when traveling on your own.
  Reply
Michael Finley March 12, 2021
Great article, still going strong! I used miles to buy tickets from the US to Mexico roundtrip. I used my Chase Sapphire Reserve card to pay the taxes, as they are then paid by my “travel credit” on that card. I also have an Explorer Card, (which I probably should have used instead) but as I rarely check bags (using the carry-on and personal item only), I didn’t worry about the free bag. I’m now worried about having to check a bag, as my “personal item” is a little bigger than what is strictly allowed. If I did have to check a bag, do you think it might make a difference if I used the Explorer Card to first pay for an upgrade of a seat to Premium Economy on one of the legs of the trip? Might this put my Explorer card “into the system” to show some payments from the card? As I purchased the original tickets with a mileage reward, might this be a way to get my Explorer Card included in the reservation and perhaps trigger the free checked bag?
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton March 13, 2021
  Hi Michael. Thanks for reading and for your kind words. According to United’s terms/conditions, it is stated that you would have to pay for the taxes and services charges (on an award ticket) with the Explorer Card in order to receive the free checked bag. While the chances of success using your card for a seat upgrade and triggering the same free checked bag are doubtful, I applaud your creative thinking and wish you luck if you do try it. More info here: https://www.united.com/ual/en/us/fly/travel/baggage/chasebag.html
  Reply
Matt May 10, 2021
According to the portal, it says that I am eligible for a free bag on each leg of my flight. However, when I go to purchase, they are charging $40 per bag. Are the free checked bags credited on the Chase statement?
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton May 11, 2021
  Hi Matt. It must be a United flight that you paid for with your United-branded card. You should receive the free checked bag upfront, not as a statement credit. Give United a call if you purchased the flight with your card and are not getting the free checked bag, 800-864-8331. Have your record locator number handy.
  Reply
Jayden September 5, 2021
If I purchase a basic economy UA round trip flight from IAD-NAS (Nassau, Bahamas) using 100% future travel credit, and I have a Chase United Explorer MileagePlus credit card that gives me MileagePlus status but the system wont allow me to pay a portion of my ticket with the credit card, can I still bring a personal item and full size carry-on (with no checked bags) and be eligible for priority boarding just by having my MileagePlus account number tied to the reservation?
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton September 6, 2021
  Hi Jayden. You will receive priority boarding. However, please note that the United credit card does not give MileagePlus status, only United perks such as priority boarding and a free checked bag when you pay for a portion, or all, of your ticket with the card. Thanks for reading.
  Reply
Manny October 1, 2021
Here’s a question I haven’t seen. What happens to the free checked bag benefit when connecting between a United operated flight and a different airline, in the same reservation? Say for example, BOS-IAD-MUC where BOS-IAD is operated by United and IAD-MUC is operated by Lufthansa. Is there a separate charge just for the LH operated leg of the trip?
Reply
- Jarrod West October 1, 2021
  Hi Manny,
  If the ticket was still purchased through United, you should still receive the free checked bag.
  Reply
JM October 12, 2021
I need to purchase a ticket for my grandmother. If I use my Explorer card, will I receive the miles even though the ticket is not in my name?
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton October 12, 2021
  Hi JM. You will receive the miles for the amount of the purchase on your card. However, your grandmother would receive any frequent flyer miles awarded for taking the flight. Be sure to sign her up for the United MileagePlus program.
  Reply
YK May 17, 2022
Does an authorized user get the Car Rental Insurance benefit (which I understand is primary on this card), or only the main cardholder will have that?
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton May 17, 2022
  Hi YK. Chase describes the eligible driver like this: “You are covered when Your name is embossed on an eligible card issued in the United States, and You use Your credit card account and/or rewards programs associated with Your Account to initiate and complete Your entire car rental transaction. Only You, as the primary renter of the vehicle, and any additional drivers permitted by the Rental Car Agreement are covered.” So, it appears as if the authorized user holding a card with their name on it is covered. You can always call the number on the back of your card for a more definitive answer and to request a coverage letter prior to renting.
  Reply
Jeff September 28, 2022
I am using my United card to purchase my flight, but I am not buying the flight on United.com. Will I still get free bags and will I still get Qualifying dollars?
Reply
- Jarrod West September 28, 2022
  Hi Jeff,
  Unfortunately not, you would need to purchase through United to receive the benefits.
  Reply
ML October 4, 2022
If I use Hertz Reward points to get free car rental days and then use my Chase United Explorer card to pay for the fees, am I covered by the Chase CDW? Technically I am paying the “entire rental transaction” with my Chase card. Thoughts?
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton October 5, 2022
  Hi ML. Based on the Guide to Benefits, it’s really not clear if you’d be covered using Hertz Rewards points plus your card for the taxes/fees, but I follow your thinking. Here is the wording: “Use Your credit card Account and/or rewards programs associated with Your Account to initiate and complete Your entire car rental transaction”. You might have to give Chase a call for clarification.
  Reply
Mark October 10, 2022
Can I use my United miles to upgrade from economy to a business class ticket?
Reply
- Christine Krzyszton October 10, 2022
  Hi Mark. It is possible. Here are some tips for doing so. https://upgradedpoints.com/travel/airlines/how-to-upgrade-on-united-airlines/
  Reply

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