For years, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card has been one of the most recommended travel credit cards on the market. It has struck a rare balance between affordability, strong earning potential, and valuable transfer partners.
Now, Chase has announced a refresh to the card beginning this Monday, and several of the new benefits make an already compelling card even more attractive for travelers.
But here's the real question:
Is the Chase Sapphire Preferred still worth it in 2026?
For many travelers—including those dreaming of premium cruises, immersive European journeys, luxury resorts, and bucket-list adventures—the answer may be yes.
Let's take a closer look at what's changing and whether this card deserves a spot in your wallet.
What's New with the Chase Sapphire Preferred?
The Chase Sapphire Preferred has long offered exceptional value thanks to its modest annual fee and flexible Ultimate Rewards® points.
The upcoming refresh adds benefits that many travelers will actually use.
NEW: $100 Annual Hotel Credit
One of the standout additions is a new $100 annual hotel credit.
For travelers who use this benefit each year, it can effectively offset the card's annual fee, making the card much easier to justify long term.
If you're already planning a weekend getaway, overnight airport stay, or short domestic trip, this benefit alone could cover much of the card's cost.
NEW: 3X Points on Gas Stations and EV Charging
Travel doesn't start at the airport.
Road trips, national park adventures, and everyday errands all require fuel.
The refreshed Chase Sapphire Preferred now earns:
3X Ultimate Rewards points on gas stations and EV charging.
That immediately positions it among the strongest mainstream travel cards for travelers who frequently drive.
Whether you're exploring Iceland's Ring Road, driving the Amalfi Coast, or road-tripping through America's national parks, those points can add up quickly.
NEW: 3X Points on Vacation Rentals
Many families and groups prefer vacation homes over traditional hotels.
The refreshed card now earns:
3X points on vacation rentals at leading brands including Airbnb, Vrbo, and more.
This is a major enhancement.
Vacation rentals have become increasingly popular for:
- Multi-generational family trips
- Ski vacations
- National park adventures
- European stays
- Group travel
Previously, travelers often sacrificed earning potential when booking these accommodations.
Now, Chase rewards those choices.
Global Entry, TSA PreCheck®, or NEXUS Credit
International travelers know that trusted traveler programs can save significant time.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred provides:
Up to $120 toward Global Entry, TSA PreCheck®, or NEXUS every four years.
For travelers taking even one international trip every few years, this benefit delivers real convenience.
Less time standing in security lines means more time enjoying your destination.
Complimentary Apple TV+ Subscription
Another addition includes:
A complimentary year of Apple TV+ when activated by December 31, 2026.
While this isn't necessarily a travel benefit, it adds extra value to an already strong package.
Think of it as a nice bonus rather than the primary reason to apply.
Why Ultimate Rewards Points Are So Valuable
Earning points is only half the equation.
How you redeem them matters.
Chase Ultimate Rewards® remain some of the most flexible travel points available because they can transfer to valuable airline and hotel partners.
These transfer partners can unlock incredible travel experiences.
Examples include:
Premium Flights
Transfer points to airline partners for premium cabin experiences that might otherwise cost thousands of dollars.
Luxury Resorts
Use hotel partners to offset stays at upscale properties around the world.
Bucket-List Travel
Points can help make experiences like these more attainable:
- Exploring Italy and Ireland
- River cruising through Europe
- Relaxing in French Polynesia
- Visiting Alaska
- Planning a luxury safari
- Experiencing iconic rail journeys
The flexibility of Ultimate Rewards allows travelers to tailor redemptions to their personal travel goals.
Is the Chase Sapphire Preferred Right for You?
The answer depends on how you travel.
This Card Is a Great Fit If You:
- Take at least one meaningful trip each year.
- Value flexible travel rewards.
- Stay in vacation rentals.
- Drive regularly and can benefit from gas earnings.
- Travel internationally every few years.
- Want premium rewards without a premium annual fee.
- Dream of bucket-list experiences.
It Might Not Be the Best Fit If You:
- Rarely travel.
- Prefer cashback over travel rewards.
- Don't want to track categories or transfer partners.
- Already maximize benefits through another premium card that better aligns with your spending.
The Bigger Picture: Travel Is About Experiences
At Go Right Travel, we believe points and miles should serve a purpose.
They shouldn't sit unused in an account.
They should help create memories.
Whether that's sipping wine along the Danube on a river cruise, waking up in an overwater bungalow in Tahiti, riding the Rocky Mountaineer through the Canadian Rockies, or embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime safari, the right travel strategy can bring those experiences within reach.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred isn't just a credit card.
For many travelers, it's a tool that helps transform everyday spending into extraordinary journeys.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Chase Sapphire Preferred worth the annual fee?
For many travelers, yes. Between the new $100 hotel credit, Global Entry reimbursement, and strong earning categories, the value can easily outweigh the cost.
Is the Chase Sapphire Preferred good for vacation rentals?
Absolutely. The addition of 3X points on vacation rentals, including brands such as Airbnb and Vrbo, makes it one of the strongest options for travelers who prefer home-style accommodations.
Does the Chase Sapphire Preferred include Global Entry?
Yes. Cardholders receive up to $120 toward Global Entry, TSA PreCheck®, or NEXUS every four years.
Is this card good for beginners?
Yes. The Sapphire Preferred is often considered one of the best entry points into travel rewards because of its flexibility and reasonable annual fee.
Final Thoughts
The refreshed Chase Sapphire Preferred takes an already popular travel card and makes it even more compelling.
The addition of a hotel credit, enhanced earning categories, vacation rental rewards, and trusted traveler reimbursement creates meaningful value for real travelers.
If you're someone who dreams about experiences rather than simply checking destinations off a list, this card deserves serious consideration.
At Go Right Travel, we don't just book trips. We design experiences.
Ready to turn everyday spending into unforgettable journeys?
Whether you're planning a luxury cruise, immersive European itinerary, safari adventure, or bucket-list escape, we'd love to help you maximize your travel experiences and create a journey that's uniquely yours.
👉 Start planning your next adventure with Go Right Travel today.