Travel Hack 1: Start with the right travel card
A $95 travel card can pay for itself with one hotel stay.
Most travelers should start with Preferred. Big travelers can consider Reserve.
Cassie's main recommendation for most travelers
Chase Sapphire Preferred
If you travel an average amount, this is the card I would start with. It has a much lower annual fee, and it still earns valuable travel points you can use for hotels and move to travel partners like Hyatt.
Best for big travelers
Chase Sapphire Reserve
This is one of my main cards, but it is expensive. It only makes sense if you travel often enough to use its premium travel benefits and credits.
I may receive a referral bonus if you apply through my link, at no extra cost to you. Check the current offer and terms before applying.
You do not need an expensive premium card to start earning travel rewards. The Chase Sapphire Preferred costs $95 for the entire year and currently includes up to $100 back on an eligible hotel stay booked through Chase Travel each account anniversary year. If you already planned to book a hotel, you can simply book an eligible stay through the Chase Travel portal instead. The card can then give you up to $100 back, which can offset the $95 annual fee. You can also earn points on purchases, but only use a travel card if you can pay the balance in full.
The hotel must be eligible and booked through Chase Travel. Benefits and terms can change, so confirm the current offer before booking.
Christian and I are building Places on Points to make travel rewards easier to understand. It has not officially launched yet, but you can join the early list.