Traveling should be enjoyable, whether you’re visiting family, heading on a vacation, or simply exploring. But with rising airfare and baggage fees, the costs can quickly add up. That’s where the United MileagePlus Explorer Card comes in.
This mid-level United Airlines credit card, offered through Chase, balances affordability with valuable travel perks—making it a smart choice for many seniors. In this guide, we’ll break down the Explorer Card benefits, costs, and why it might be the right fit for you. If you’d like help applying or confirming details, call 877-297-0699 and a United representative can guide you.
The United MileagePlus Explorer Card is a co-branded travel credit card designed for people who fly United Airlines. Positioned between the no-fee Gateway Card and the premium Club Infinite Card, it offers a strong mix of savings, rewards, and comfort perks without a high annual fee.
💡 Think of it as the “just right” option for travelers who fly a few times a year.
Save about $35 per person, each way.
Covers you and one companion on the same reservation.
Example: Two round trips a year for you and a partner = $280 saved annually—enough to cover the card’s fee.
Board earlier than most passengers.
Extra time to find your seat and overhead space without the rush.
Lounges offer snacks, beverages, Wi-Fi, and quiet seating.
👵 Anecdote: A senior traveler said she used her lounge pass during a 3-hour layover and felt far less tired by the time she boarded.
Earn 2x miles on:
United flights.
Dining (including delivery).
Hotels booked directly.
Earn 1x miles on all other purchases.
Redeem miles for flights, seat upgrades, or vacation packages.
Trip cancellation or interruption insurance.
Baggage delay reimbursement.
Rental car collision coverage.
Peace of mind for seniors traveling domestically or abroad.
Annual fee: $95.
Value comparison:
Free baggage benefit alone usually covers the cost.
Lounge passes ($59 each retail value) add another ~$118 of value.
Suggestion: Even seniors who fly only twice a year can come out ahead financially.
Affordable balance: Not as expensive as luxury cards but still offers meaningful perks.
Stress reduction: Priority boarding and lounges create smoother airport experiences.
Security: Travel protections reduce worries about delays or lost bags.
Practical savings: Checked bags and miles reward everyday travel.
👴 Real-world story: A retired couple from Texas shared that their Explorer Card saved them over $400 last year just on baggage and lounge passes when visiting grandchildren.
Online: Apply via United.com or Chase.com.
By phone: Call 877-297-0699 to confirm eligibility and get application support.
Senior tip: Review benefits with a family member to ensure they match your travel style.
The United MileagePlus Explorer Card is a great middle-ground option for seniors who fly a few times each year. With free bags, priority boarding, lounge passes, and solid travel protections, it pays for itself quickly while making trips less stressful.
To learn more or apply, call 877-297-0699 today. The right card can save you money and make your travel days far more enjoyable.