75. Chase Sapphire Smackdown: Preferred vs Reserve – Which Card Wins Your Wallet?

Ever wonder whether the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Chase Sapphire Reserve is the right card for you? Well, today we're diving deep into both to help you figure out which card might fit your wallet better. Hey, we're the Travel Mom Squad (Pam, Jess, and Alex), and in today’s chat, we're breaking down everything you need to know about these two popular cards from Chase. From the nitty-gritty of their benefits to the best ways to utilize their perks, we've got you covered. The Chase Sapphire Preferred is our go-to recommendation for those new to the points game. With a lower annual fee and solid rewards, it’s a powerhouse for anyone starting out.  On the flip side, the Chase Sapphire Reserve is like the Preferred’s big sibling, with a heftier fee but a ton of premium perks. Think $300 travel credit that you can use for just about anything travel-related, from taxis to flights, which makes its higher fee more palatable.  Both cards have their merits, and the best one for you depends heavily on how much you travel and what kinds of benefits you value most. If you're a frequent traveler who loves splurging on travel and dining, the Reserve might be up your alley. But if you're just dipping your toes into the world of travel rewards, the Preferred might be a better fit. So, are you ready to pick a card that aligns with your travel aspirations and spending habits? Join us as we delve into the details, share our personal experiences, and maybe, just maybe, help you decide which card will earn a spot in your wallet. Remember, the right card for you is the one that matches your travel style and budget. Hit play to get the full scoop and kickstart your journey with the right Chase card for you!   Links For All Things Travel Mom Squad: stan.store/travelmomsquad    Episode Minute By Minute: 1:24: Overview of both cards' benefits and the importance of choosing one. 2:16: Deep dive into the Sapphire Preferred's perks, including the $50 hotel credit and its real-world application. 3:09: Sapphire Reserve’s high-end benefits explained, including the $300 easy-to-use travel credit. 5:18: Key differences between Sapphire Preferred and Reserve, focusing on points value and earnings on travel. 6:42: Priority Pass benefits with the Reserve and upcoming changes affecting restaurant credits. 8:01: How to reapply for Sapphire cards, including wait times and strategies for downgrading or upgrading. 13:12: Recap of current card offers and how they influence the decision on which card to apply for. 16:46: Discussion and personal preferences on choosing between the Sapphire Preferred and Reserve based on individual travel and spending habits. 20:04: Final thoughts on selecting the right Chase Sapphire card.