As a seasoned travel credit card enthusiast, I understand the thrill of accumulating points and miles to unlock incredible travel experiences. However, navigating the complex landscape of credit card rewards can be daunting, especially when faced with restrictions like Chase’s 5/24 rule. That’s why I’m here to guide you through the best strategies for using your precious Chase 5/24 slots.
##
Understanding the Chase 5/24 Rule
First, let’s break down the infamous 5/24 rule. This unwritten but very real Chase policy states that you will be automatically denied approval for a new Chase card if you’ve opened five or more credit cards (from any bank, not just Chase) in the past 24 months. The implications are significant. Because Chase offers some of the most valuable travel credit cards on the market, strategically planning your applications is crucial to maximize your rewards potential. Therefore, new entrants into the travel rewards game should prioritise Chase cards.
##
Choosing Your Anchor Card: Sapphire Showdown
When embarking on your Chase journey, the initial and most important decision involves selecting your “anchor” card. This card should provide strong bonus categories, transferable points, and valuable perks. Think of it as the foundation of your rewards strategy. Fortunately, Chase offers two stellar options: the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and the Chase Sapphire Reserve®. While you can only hold one at a time, deciding between the two requires careful consideration.
For beginners, I usually recommend starting with either the Sapphire Preferred or the Sapphire Reserve. To help you decide, let’s compare these two powerhouses:
| Feature | Chase Sapphire Preferred Card | Chase Sapphire Reserve | |—————————|——————————-|————————————| | Annual Fee | $95 | $550 | | Earning Rates | 5x on travel through Chase, 5x on Lyft (through 9/30/27), 3x on dining, 3x on select streaming and online grocery, 2x on other travel, 1x on everything else, 5x on Peloton purchases over $150 (through 12/31/27, up to 25,000 points) | 10x on hotels and car rentals through Chase, 10x on Chase Dining, 5x on flights through Chase, 5x on Lyft (through 9/30/27), 3x on other travel, 3x on dining, 1x on everything else, 10x on Peloton purchases over $150 (through 12/31/27, up to 50,000 points) | | Welcome Offer | 60,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in 3 months | 60,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in 3 months | | Point Value (Chase Travel) | 1.25 cents | 1.5 cents | | Credits | $50 annual hotel credit, 10% anniversary points boost | $300 annual travel credit, Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit | | Lounge Access | N/A | Sapphire Lounges, Priority Pass Select | | Other Benefits | Complimentary DoorDash membership and credit (activate by 12/31/27) | Access to The Edit by Chase Travel, car rental elite status, complimentary DoorDash membership and credit (activate by 12/31/27), $10 monthly Lyft credit (through 9/30/27) | | Authorized User Fee | $0 | $75 |
Personally, I started with the Sapphire Preferred and eventually upgraded to the Sapphire Reserve once my travel spending increased. The higher annual fee is easily offset by the $300 travel credit and enhanced point redemption value, making it a worthwhile investment for frequent travellers. If you don’t travel as much, the Sapphire Preferred is still a fantastic option.
##
Unleash the Freedom: Earning Beyond Welcome Bonuses
Welcome bonuses are undeniably attractive, but building a sustainable rewards strategy requires cards that offer strong bonuses in everyday categories. The Chase Freedom Flex® and Chase Freedom Unlimited® are excellent choices in this regard. Although marketed as cashback cards, the real magic happens when you pair them with a premium Ultimate Rewards card like the Sapphire Preferred or Sapphire Reserve. You can convert the cashback earned on the Freedom cards into fully transferable Ultimate Rewards points, significantly boosting their value.
The best part? These cards have no annual fees, allowing you to keep them open indefinitely and maximize their earning potential.
* Chase Freedom Unlimited: This card offers a flat 1.5% cashback on all purchases. I use this card for all non-bonus spending, as it provides a consistent return on every purchase. * Chase Freedom Flex: This card features rotating quarterly bonus categories, offering 5% cashback on up to $1,500 spent each quarter (activation required). These categories often include gas stations, grocery stores, restaurants, and more.
I always make sure to register my Freedom Flex card each quarter to take advantage of the bonus categories. Combining the Freedom Unlimited’s everyday spending rewards with the Freedom Flex’s quarterly bonuses creates a powerful points-earning engine.
##
Business Class with Ink: Don’t Overlook Small Business Cards
Many people underestimate the value of Chase’s Ink business credit cards, wrongly assuming they don’t qualify. However, you might be surprised to learn that even a side hustle can make you eligible. Chase business cards are unique because they don’t count towards your 5/24 total. Meaning, you can apply for them without affecting your 5/24 status. This is a massive advantage, but you must still be under 5/24 to get approved.
Whether you’re a freelancer, consultant, or simply sell items online, exploring Chase’s Ink lineup is highly recommended.
The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is a standout, offering 3x points per dollar on travel, shipping, internet, cable, phone services, and social media/search engine advertising (on the first $150,000 spent annually). Moreover, it boasts a 25% bonus when redeeming points through Chase Travel.
I personally hold the Ink Business Preferred and use it for all my business-related expenses, racking up Ultimate Rewards points at an accelerated rate.
##
Soaring to New Heights: Airline Credit Cards
Once you’ve established a solid foundation with Ultimate Rewards earning cards, you can consider adding an airline credit card to your wallet. While co-branded airline cards might not be the strongest for day-to-day purchases, they offer valuable perks like free checked bags, priority boarding, and statement credits.
When choosing an airline card, consider the airlines you fly most frequently. A credit card bonus can help you to earn status with a particular airline or the Southwest Companion Pass.
However, don’t limit yourself to the airlines you usually fly. Consider the broader network of partner airlines within alliances. For example, United Airlines miles can be redeemed for flights on Lufthansa and other Star Alliance partners.
##
Hotel Hopping: Choosing the Right Hotel Card
Hotel credit cards can provide valuable benefits on your next hotel stay, and you should seriously consider one of these options. This includes benefits such as elite status, free night awards, and late checkout. Also, many travellers are partial to one hotel chain over another. If you’re starting from scratch, read up on the hotel programs to decide which one might be best for you: IHG One Rewards, Marriott Bonvoy, or World of Hyatt.
Consider where you plan to travel and which hotels are available there. Also, consider how these programs (and their associated credit cards) will reward you with bonus points, free night awards and elite status benefits based on your travel and spending habits.
##
Final Thoughts: Strategic Card Selection
The Chase 5/24 rule can feel restrictive. However, it encourages you to strategically prioritize your card applications. Because most people only get one chance to apply for Chase cards, you should choose wisely. Remember to consider your spending habits, travel goals, and long-term rewards strategy.
Prioritize cards that offer long-term value and avoid wasting valuable slots on cards with limited appeal. If you play your cards right, you can build a powerful Chase card portfolio that unlocks unforgettable travel experiences.
