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Chase Sapphire Reserve® Credit Card Review: Is This Premium Travel Card Worth It?
February 6, 2025

What Is the Chase Sapphire Reserve®?
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is Chase's flagship premium travel rewards credit card, launched in 2016 to compete with other high-end cards like the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card. With a significant annual fee of $550, this premium card offers extensive travel benefits, including Priority Pass™ Select membership for airport lounge access, comprehensive travel protections, and the ability to earn and redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points at enhanced values.
Chase Sapphire Reserve® Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Earn 3 points on dining at restaurants worldwide
- $300 annual travel statement credit
- Priority Pass Select membership with unlimited guest access
- Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
- Comprehensive travel and purchase protection benefits
- 1:1 point transfer to Chase hotel and airline travel partners
- DoorDash & Caviar benefits including DashPass membership
- No foreign transaction fees
- 50% more value when redeeming points through Chase Travel
Cons:
- High $550 annual fee
- Requires excellent credit score for card approval
- Some benefits require enrollment
- Complex rewards structure may be overwhelming for some users
Who Is the Chase Sapphire Reserve® For?
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is ideal for frequent travelers who can maximize its premium benefits. This card particularly suits:
- Frequent travelers who can utilize the $300 travel statement credit
- Diners who appreciate earning 3 points on dining at restaurants and want DashPass benefits
- Those who value airport lounge access through Priority Pass™ Select membership
- Travelers seeking comprehensive travel protections including auto rental collision damage waiver and trip cancellation/interruption insurance
- Points enthusiasts who want to transfer to airline and hotel transfer partners
- Users who can meet minimum spending requirements for welcome offer and bonus points
Comparing the Chase Sapphire Reserve® with Other Premium Cards
When considering the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, it's helpful to compare it with other popular options in the premium travel card category:
The Platinum Card® from American Express (rates & fees):
- Annual fee: $695
- Welcome offer: Substantial points bonus after meeting spending requirements
- Key rewards: 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel
- Standout feature: Extensive airport lounge access and hotel elite status
Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card:
- Annual fee: $395
- Sign-up bonus: Large miles bonus after meeting spending requirements
- Key rewards: 10X miles on hotels and rental cars, 5X on vacation rentals and flights booked through Capital One Travel
- Standout feature: Annual travel credit and 10,000 bonus miles each account anniversary
Each card offers unique benefits tailored to different spending habits and preferences. Consider your personal financial goals when choosing the best card for you.
Key Takeaways:
- Chase Sapphire Reserve® excels in offering extensive travel benefits
- The Platinum Card® from American Express offers premium travel perks
- Capital One Venture X provides high rewards on travel bookings
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Our Expert Takeaway
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® remains one of the most compelling premium travel cards available, particularly for those who can maximize its extensive benefits package. While the annual fee is substantial, the combination of the $300 travel statement credit, Priority Pass™ Select membership, and enhanced rewards earning potential makes it a worthwhile consideration for frequent travelers.
Chase Sapphire Reserve® FAQ
What credit score do you need for the Chase Sapphire Reserve®?
Generally, you'll need an excellent credit score (740+) for approval.
How does the Chase Pay Over Time feature work?
Chase Pay Over Time allows eligible purchases to be split into fixed monthly payments with interest.
What are the current welcome offer terms?
The welcome offer terms vary, but typically require meeting a minimum spend requirement within the first three months of account open date.
How do I maximize Chase Ultimate Rewards points?
Transfer points to airline and hotel transfer partners or redeem through Chase Travel for 50% more value.
What is Reserved by Sapphire℠?
It's a program offering exclusive access to in-demand events, après-ski specials, and curated collection of inspired stays.
Are there any restrictions on Priority Pass™ Select membership?
While membership includes unlimited visits, some airport lounges may have capacity restrictions or guest limitations.
Can authorized users access the same benefits?
Most benefits extend to authorized users, including Priority Pass Select membership and travel protections.
How does the $300 travel statement credit work?
The credit automatically applies to eligible travel purchases, including airfare, hotels, and ground transportation.
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Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are those of Kudos alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.