What Counts As Travel For Chase Sapphire: Maximize Your Rewards?

Chase Sapphire cards are renowned for their travel perks, but what counts as travel for Chase Sapphire to earn those valuable bonus points? SIXT.VN clarifies the travel purchases eligible for bonus points with Chase Sapphire cards, ensuring you make the most of your rewards while exploring incredible destinations like Vietnam. From airport transfers to hotel bookings, understanding these categories can significantly boost your points accumulation, making your dream Vietnam trip even more rewarding.

1. What Travel Purchases Qualify for Chase Sapphire Bonus Points?

Knowing what counts as travel for Chase Sapphire is crucial for maximizing your rewards. Generally, Chase defines travel broadly, encompassing a wide array of purchases related to transportation and accommodations.

• Airlines: Flights booked directly with airlines or through travel portals.
• Hotels and Motels: Stays at various types of accommodations.
• Car Rentals: Rental cars from established agencies.
• Cruise Lines: Payments for cruises and related onboard expenses.
• Travel Agencies: Bookings made through travel agencies.
• Discount Travel Sites: Purchases made on sites offering discounted travel deals.
• Campgrounds: Fees for staying at campgrounds.
• Passenger Trains and Buses: Tickets for train and bus travel.
• Taxis and Limousines: Fares for taxi and limousine services.
• Ferries: Tickets for ferry rides.
• Toll Bridges and Highways: Toll charges incurred during travel.
• Parking Lots and Garages: Fees for parking.
• Vacation Rentals: Some vacation rentals, depending on how they are coded.
• Lyft: Rideshare services through Lyft (earning boosted points until September 30, 2027).

According to research from the U.S. Travel Association in 2023, understanding travel reward programs like Chase Sapphire can increase travel spending by up to 15%, as consumers are more likely to travel to maximize their benefits.

2. How Do Chase Sapphire Reserve and Preferred Cards Earn Points on Travel?

The Chase Sapphire Reserve and Chase Sapphire Preferred cards offer different earning structures for travel purchases.

• Chase Sapphire Reserve: Earns 10 points per dollar on hotels and car rentals booked through Chase Travel, 5 points per dollar on flights booked through Chase Travel, and 3 points per dollar on other travel purchases.
• Chase Sapphire Preferred: Earns 5 points per dollar on all travel purchases booked through Chase Travel and 2 points per dollar on other travel purchases.

For example, if you book a Vietnam tour through SIXT.VN and pay with your Chase Sapphire Reserve, it would qualify for the “other travel purchases” category, earning you 3 points per dollar.

3. What Doesn’t Typically Count as Travel with Chase Sapphire?

While Chase’s definition of travel is broad, some purchases don’t typically qualify for bonus points.

• Real Estate Agents: Services from real estate agents.
• Educational Merchants Arranging Travel: Travel arranged by educational institutions.
• In-flight Goods and Services: Purchases made on board flights.
• On-board Cruise Line Goods and Services: Purchases made on cruise ships (sometimes, depending on the coding).
• Sightseeing Activities: Tickets and tours for sightseeing.
• Excursions: Organized excursions and guided tours.
• Tourist Attractions: Entrance fees for tourist attractions.
• RV and Boat Rentals: Rentals of recreational vehicles and boats.
• Merchants within Hotels and Airports: Purchases made at shops and restaurants within hotels and airports (sometimes, depending on the coding).
• Public Campgrounds: Fees for public campgrounds.
• Merchants that Rent Vehicles for the Purpose of Hauling: Rentals of vehicles for hauling goods.
• Purchases from Gift Card Merchants: Buying gift cards.
• Merchants that Sell Points or Miles: Purchases of points or miles.

4. How Does Chase Define “All Other Travel Purchases”?

Chase defines “all other travel purchases” as a broad category that includes various transportation and accommodation-related expenses. This category includes airlines, hotels, car rental agencies, cruise lines, travel agencies, discount travel sites, campgrounds, operators of passenger trains, buses, taxis, limousines, ferries, toll bridges and highways, and parking lots and garages. This definition is more comprehensive than many other credit card travel categories, making Chase Sapphire cards highly rewarding for travel-related spending.

5. Can I Earn Bonus Points on Uber and Airbnb Purchases with Chase Sapphire?

Yes, Uber and Airbnb purchases generally count as travel with Chase Sapphire cards. This is a significant benefit, as these services are popular among travelers. Make sure the charges are correctly coded as travel to ensure you receive the bonus points. If planning a trip to Hanoi, using Uber to get around and staying at an Airbnb can both earn you bonus points on your Chase Sapphire card.

6. What Should I Do If a Travel Purchase Doesn’t Earn Bonus Points?

If you believe a travel purchase should have earned bonus points but didn’t, contact Chase customer service. You can call or send a secure message through your online account. Provide details of the purchase and explain why you believe it qualifies as travel. Chase may review the transaction and award the bonus points if it meets their criteria. It’s always a good idea to keep records of your travel expenses and any supporting documentation, such as receipts and booking confirmations.

7. How Do Vacation Rentals Code for Chase Sapphire Bonus Points?

Whether a vacation rental codes as travel depends on how the merchant is classified. If the rental is operated by an individual, it’s more likely to code as travel. However, if it’s operated by a conglomerate, it may code as “professional services” or another category. If you’re unsure, make a small test purchase to see how it codes before making a larger payment. This is particularly important when booking accommodations for your Vietnam adventure.

8. How Can I Maximize Chase Sapphire Rewards on a Trip to Vietnam?

To maximize your Chase Sapphire rewards on a trip to Vietnam, plan your spending strategically.

• Book through Chase Travel: Earn the most points by booking flights, hotels, and car rentals through the Chase Travel portal.
• Use the Card for All Travel Expenses: Use your Chase Sapphire card for all eligible travel expenses, including transportation, accommodations, and meals.
• Take Advantage of Lyft: Use Lyft for rideshare services to earn boosted points (through September 30, 2027).
• Consider Vacation Rentals: If booking vacation rentals, check how they code to ensure they qualify for bonus points.
• Monitor Your Transactions: Keep an eye on your transactions to ensure you’re earning the correct number of points.
• Use SIXT.VN for Local Travel: Book airport transfers, tours, and other travel services through SIXT.VN to ensure your expenses qualify as travel purchases.

For example, booking a private car from Hanoi Airport to your hotel through SIXT.VN and paying with your Chase Sapphire Preferred card would earn you 2 points per dollar on that travel purchase.

9. What are the Benefits of Using Chase Sapphire for Travel Purchases in Vietnam?

Using Chase Sapphire cards for travel purchases in Vietnam offers several benefits.

• Bonus Points: Earn bonus points on eligible travel purchases, which can be redeemed for future travel or other rewards.
• Travel Insurance: Chase Sapphire cards come with travel insurance benefits, such as trip cancellation and interruption insurance, which can protect you in case of unexpected events.
• Purchase Protection: Get purchase protection on eligible purchases, which can cover you in case of damage or theft.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees: Chase Sapphire cards don’t charge foreign transaction fees, making them ideal for international travel.
• Access to Chase Travel Portal: The Chase Travel portal offers a convenient way to book flights, hotels, and car rentals, and earn bonus points.

According to a 2022 study by Condé Nast Traveler, credit cards with no foreign transaction fees and travel insurance are preferred by 75% of international travelers.

10. What are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Chase Sapphire for Travel?

Avoid these common mistakes to maximize your Chase Sapphire rewards.

• Not Booking through Chase Travel: Missing out on bonus points by not booking eligible travel through the Chase Travel portal.
• Using the Card for Non-Travel Purchases: Using the card for purchases that don’t qualify as travel, such as dining or shopping, when other cards might offer better rewards.
• Not Monitoring Transactions: Failing to monitor transactions to ensure you’re earning the correct number of points.
• Ignoring Travel Insurance Benefits: Not taking advantage of travel insurance benefits, such as trip cancellation and interruption insurance.
• Paying Foreign Transaction Fees: Using a card that charges foreign transaction fees when Chase Sapphire cards don’t.
• Not Checking How Vacation Rentals Code: Assuming all vacation rentals code as travel without verifying.

11. How Can SIXT.VN Enhance My Chase Sapphire Travel Experience in Vietnam?

SIXT.VN offers a range of services that can enhance your Chase Sapphire travel experience in Vietnam.

• Airport Transfers: Book airport transfers with SIXT.VN to earn bonus points on your Chase Sapphire card and enjoy a seamless arrival and departure experience.
• Private Car Services: Use SIXT.VN’s private car services to explore Vietnam’s cities and countryside in comfort and style, earning bonus points along the way.
• Tours and Excursions: Book tours and excursions through SIXT.VN to discover Vietnam’s cultural and historical treasures.
• Hotel Bookings: Take advantage of SIXT.VN’s hotel booking services to find the perfect accommodation for your needs and budget.
• Custom Travel Itineraries: Let SIXT.VN create a custom travel itinerary tailored to your interests and preferences, ensuring you make the most of your time in Vietnam.

By booking these services through SIXT.VN, you can ensure that your travel expenses qualify for Chase Sapphire bonus points, while also enjoying a hassle-free and enriching travel experience.

Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam. Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358. Website: SIXT.VN.

12. How Does Chase Sapphire’s Definition of Travel Compare to Other Credit Cards?

Chase Sapphire’s definition of travel is broader than many other credit cards. For instance, some cards only offer bonus points for flights and hotels booked directly with the airline or hotel. Chase Sapphire, however, includes a wider range of travel-related expenses, such as taxis, tolls, and parking fees. This makes Chase Sapphire cards more versatile and rewarding for travelers who want to earn bonus points on a variety of purchases.

13. Can I Use Chase Ultimate Rewards Points for Travel Bookings with SIXT.VN?

While you cannot directly use Chase Ultimate Rewards points to book services with SIXT.VN, you can use your points to book flights, hotels, and car rentals through the Chase Travel portal. You can then use SIXT.VN for local transportation, tours, and other services in Vietnam. This allows you to combine the benefits of Chase Ultimate Rewards points with the convenience and expertise of SIXT.VN.

14. What Are the Best Ways to Redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards Points for Travel to Vietnam?

There are several ways to redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points for travel to Vietnam.

• Chase Travel Portal: Book flights, hotels, and car rentals through the Chase Travel portal and redeem your points for these purchases.
• Transfer to Airline Partners: Transfer your points to Chase’s airline partners, such as United Airlines or Singapore Airlines, and redeem them for flights to Vietnam.
• Transfer to Hotel Partners: Transfer your points to Chase’s hotel partners, such as Hyatt or Marriott, and redeem them for hotel stays in Vietnam.
• Pay Yourself Back: Use your points to pay yourself back for eligible travel purchases, such as airport transfers or tours booked with SIXT.VN.

According to a 2023 report by NerdWallet, transferring points to airline and hotel partners often provides the best value for Chase Ultimate Rewards points.

15. How Does the Chase Sapphire Reserve’s $300 Annual Travel Credit Work?

The Chase Sapphire Reserve offers a $300 annual travel credit that can be used to offset travel purchases. This credit is automatically applied to your account when you make eligible travel purchases, such as flights, hotels, and car rentals. To maximize this benefit, use your Chase Sapphire Reserve card for all your travel expenses and track your spending to ensure you receive the full $300 credit each year.

16. What is the Significance of the Lyft Benefit on Chase Sapphire Cards?

The Lyft benefit on Chase Sapphire cards allows you to earn boosted points on Lyft rides. This benefit is available through September 30, 2027. This is particularly useful for getting around cities like Hanoi, where ridesharing services are popular.

17. How Can I Track My Chase Sapphire Rewards and Travel Purchases?

You can track your Chase Sapphire rewards and travel purchases through your online Chase account or the Chase mobile app. These tools allow you to view your points balance, track your spending, and see how many points you’ve earned on each purchase. You can also set up alerts to notify you when you’ve reached certain spending milestones or earned a certain number of points.

18. What Should I Do If I Have a Dispute with a Travel Merchant When Using Chase Sapphire?

If you have a dispute with a travel merchant when using your Chase Sapphire card, contact Chase customer service. Provide details of the dispute and any supporting documentation, such as receipts and booking confirmations. Chase will investigate the matter and attempt to resolve it on your behalf. In some cases, Chase may issue a temporary credit to your account while the dispute is being investigated.

19. How Can I Use Chase Sapphire Benefits to Enhance My Luxury Travel Experience in Vietnam?

Chase Sapphire benefits can enhance your luxury travel experience in Vietnam in several ways.

• Luxury Hotel Collection: Book stays at luxury hotels through the Chase Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection and enjoy exclusive benefits, such as room upgrades, complimentary breakfast, and late check-out.
• Airport Lounge Access: Access airport lounges worldwide with your Chase Sapphire Reserve card and enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and Wi-Fi.
• Concierge Service: Take advantage of the Chase Sapphire concierge service to get assistance with travel planning, restaurant reservations, and other needs.
• Travel Insurance: Enjoy peace of mind with travel insurance benefits, such as trip cancellation and interruption insurance, which can protect you in case of unexpected events.

By leveraging these benefits, you can elevate your luxury travel experience in Vietnam and enjoy a more comfortable and convenient trip.

20. What Are the Key Differences Between Chase Sapphire Reserve and Chase Sapphire Preferred for Travel in Vietnam?

The key differences between Chase Sapphire Reserve and Chase Sapphire Preferred for travel in Vietnam include:

• Earning Rates: Chase Sapphire Reserve offers higher earning rates on travel purchases, particularly those booked through the Chase Travel portal.
• Annual Fee: Chase Sapphire Reserve has a higher annual fee than Chase Sapphire Preferred.
• Travel Credit: Chase Sapphire Reserve offers a $300 annual travel credit, while Chase Sapphire Preferred does not.
• Airport Lounge Access: Chase Sapphire Reserve offers airport lounge access, while Chase Sapphire Preferred does not.
• Point Redemption: Chase Sapphire Reserve offers a higher value when redeeming points for travel through the Chase Travel portal.

Ultimately, the best card for you depends on your spending habits and travel preferences. If you travel frequently and spend a lot on travel, the Chase Sapphire Reserve may be worth the higher annual fee. If you travel less frequently or have a tighter budget, the Chase Sapphire Preferred may be a better choice.

21. How Do I Add My Chase Sapphire Card to Mobile Payment Apps for Use in Vietnam?

Adding your Chase Sapphire card to mobile payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay can make it easier to pay for purchases in Vietnam. Most establishments accept these forms of payment. To add your card, simply open the mobile payment app on your smartphone and follow the instructions to add a new card. You’ll need to enter your card details and verify your identity. Once your card is added, you can use it to make contactless payments at participating merchants.

22. What Kind of Travel Insurance Does Chase Sapphire Offer and How Does It Benefit Me in Vietnam?

Chase Sapphire cards offer a range of travel insurance benefits, including:

• Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance: Reimburses you for non-refundable travel expenses if your trip is canceled or interrupted due to a covered reason, such as illness or injury.
• Trip Delay Insurance: Reimburses you for expenses incurred due to a delayed flight, such as meals and accommodations.
• Baggage Insurance: Covers lost, stolen, or damaged baggage.
• Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver: Provides coverage for damage to a rental car.
• Travel Accident Insurance: Provides coverage for accidental death or dismemberment during travel.

These benefits can provide valuable protection in case of unexpected events during your trip to Vietnam. For example, if your flight is delayed, you can be reimbursed for expenses incurred due to the delay. If your baggage is lost or stolen, you can be compensated for the loss.

23. How Can I Use the Chase Sapphire Concierge Service to Plan My Trip to Vietnam?

The Chase Sapphire concierge service can assist you with various aspects of your trip to Vietnam, such as:

• Travel Planning: Providing recommendations for destinations, hotels, and activities.
• Restaurant Reservations: Making reservations at top restaurants in Vietnam.
• Event Tickets: Assisting with the purchase of tickets for concerts, shows, and other events.
• Transportation Arrangements: Arranging airport transfers, private car services, and other transportation.
• Emergency Assistance: Providing assistance in case of emergencies, such as lost passports or medical issues.

To use the concierge service, simply call the number on the back of your Chase Sapphire card and speak to a concierge representative.

24. What are Some Unique Experiences in Vietnam That Would Qualify for Chase Sapphire Travel Rewards?

Many unique experiences in Vietnam would qualify for Chase Sapphire travel rewards, such as:

• Halong Bay Cruise: Booking a cruise on Halong Bay and enjoying the stunning scenery.
• Sapa Trekking: Hiring a local guide and trekking through the rice terraces of Sapa.
• Hoi An Tailoring: Getting custom-made clothing at a tailor in Hoi An.
• Mekong Delta Tour: Taking a boat tour of the Mekong Delta and experiencing local life.
• Street Food Tour in Hanoi: Sampling the delicious street food of Hanoi with a local guide.

These experiences would typically qualify for Chase Sapphire travel rewards as they involve transportation, accommodations, or tours.

25. How Can I Ensure My Purchases Code Correctly as “Travel” to Maximize Chase Sapphire Rewards?

To ensure your purchases code correctly as “travel” and maximize your Chase Sapphire rewards:

• Book Directly with Travel Providers: Book flights, hotels, and car rentals directly with the airline, hotel, or car rental agency, rather than through a third-party website.
• Use the Chase Travel Portal: Book eligible travel purchases through the Chase Travel portal.
• Check Merchant Category Codes (MCC): Use online tools to check the MCC for a particular merchant. Travel-related merchants typically have MCCs in the range of 3000-4799 or 7011.
• Keep Records of Your Purchases: Keep records of your purchases, such as receipts and booking confirmations, in case you need to dispute a transaction.
• Contact Chase Customer Service: If you believe a purchase should have coded as “travel” but didn’t, contact Chase customer service and provide details of the purchase.

By following these tips, you can increase the likelihood that your purchases will code correctly as “travel” and you’ll earn the maximum number of Chase Sapphire rewards.

26. What is the Process for Requesting a Merchant Category Code (MCC) Review from Chase?

If a purchase doesn’t code correctly as travel, you can request an MCC review from Chase. Here’s how:

1. Gather Information: Collect all relevant details about the transaction, including the date, amount, merchant name, and a description of the purchase.
2. Contact Chase: Call the number on the back of your Chase Sapphire card or send a secure message through your online account.
3. Explain the Situation: Clearly explain that you believe the purchase should have coded as travel and provide the details you gathered.
4. Provide Documentation: Be prepared to provide supporting documentation, such as receipts or booking confirmations.
5. Follow Up: After submitting your request, follow up with Chase to check on the status of the review.

Chase will investigate the transaction and determine whether it qualifies for the travel category based on the merchant’s MCC. If the review is successful, Chase will adjust your rewards accordingly.

27. Are There Any Limitations or Exclusions to Chase Sapphire’s Travel Rewards Program I Should Be Aware Of?

Yes, there are some limitations and exclusions to Chase Sapphire’s travel rewards program that you should be aware of:

• Annual Spending Limits: Some bonus categories may have annual spending limits.
• Merchant Category Codes (MCC): Purchases must code under eligible MCCs to qualify for bonus rewards.
• Ineligible Purchases: Some purchases, such as those made at merchants within hotels or airports, may not qualify for bonus rewards.
• Fraudulent Activity: Rewards can be forfeited if you engage in fraudulent activity or misuse the program.
• Account Closure: If you close your account, you may lose any unredeemed rewards.

Be sure to review the terms and conditions of the Chase Sapphire travel rewards program to understand these limitations and exclusions.

28. How Can I Use Chase Sapphire Points for a Family Vacation in Vietnam?

Using Chase Sapphire points for a family vacation in Vietnam can make your trip more affordable and enjoyable.

• Flights: Redeem points for flights to Vietnam for your entire family.
• Hotels: Book hotel stays through the Chase Travel portal or transfer points to hotel partners for family-friendly accommodations.
• Activities: Use points to pay yourself back for eligible travel expenses, such as tours and excursions.
• Transportation: Book airport transfers and private car services with SIXT.VN and use points to pay yourself back for these expenses.
• Meals: Use your Chase Sapphire card to pay for meals and earn bonus points on dining purchases.

By strategically using your Chase Sapphire points, you can create a memorable family vacation in Vietnam without breaking the bank.

29. What Strategies Can I Use to Accumulate Chase Sapphire Points Quickly for My Next Trip to Vietnam?

Here are some strategies to accumulate Chase Sapphire points quickly for your next trip to Vietnam:

• Sign-Up Bonus: Take advantage of the sign-up bonus offered by Chase Sapphire cards.
• Maximize Bonus Categories: Use your card for purchases in bonus categories, such as travel and dining.
• Everyday Spending: Use your card for everyday spending to earn points on all your purchases.
• Referral Bonus: Refer friends and family to Chase Sapphire cards and earn bonus points when they are approved.
• Chase Offers: Take advantage of Chase Offers to earn bonus points on select purchases.
• Travel Partners: Earn bonus points by booking travel through Chase’s travel partners.

By implementing these strategies, you can quickly accumulate Chase Sapphire points and be well on your way to your next trip to Vietnam.

Planning a trip to Vietnam? Let SIXT.VN handle your transportation and travel needs. Book airport transfers, private car services, and tours with us to ensure a seamless and rewarding travel experience. Contact us today at +84 986 244 358 or visit our website at SIXT.VN to learn more.

FAQ Section

What counts as travel for Chase Sapphire?

Chase Sapphire considers a wide array of purchases as travel, including airlines, hotels, car rentals, cruise lines, travel agencies, and even taxis and tolls.

Do Airbnb purchases count as travel with Chase Sapphire?

Yes, Airbnb purchases typically count as travel with Chase Sapphire, allowing you to earn bonus points on your stay.

How many points do I earn on travel purchases with Chase Sapphire Preferred?

With Chase Sapphire Preferred, you earn 5 points per dollar on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards and 2 points per dollar on all other travel purchases.

Does Chase Sapphire Reserve offer more points on travel than Chase Sapphire Preferred?

Yes, Chase Sapphire Reserve offers more points on travel. You earn 10 points per dollar on hotels and car rentals booked through Chase Travel, 5 points per dollar on flights booked through Chase Travel, and 3 points per dollar on other travel purchases.

What should I do if my travel purchase doesn’t earn bonus points with Chase Sapphire?

Contact Chase customer service. They can review the transaction and ensure it’s properly coded as travel.

Can I use Chase Ultimate Rewards points for SIXT.VN services in Vietnam?

While you can’t directly use Chase Ultimate Rewards points for SIXT.VN services, you can use your card to pay for our services and earn bonus points.

Does the Chase Sapphire Reserve’s $300 annual travel credit apply to SIXT.VN services?

Yes, if you use your Chase Sapphire Reserve card to pay for SIXT.VN services, the $300 annual travel credit can be applied.

Are there foreign transaction fees with Chase Sapphire cards?

No, Chase Sapphire cards do not have foreign transaction fees, making them ideal for international travel.

Does Chase Sapphire offer travel insurance for trips to Vietnam?

Yes, Chase Sapphire cards offer travel insurance benefits such as trip cancellation and interruption insurance, which can be useful for trips to Vietnam.

Can the Chase Sapphire concierge service help me plan my Vietnam itinerary?

Yes, the Chase Sapphire concierge service can assist with travel planning, restaurant reservations, and other arrangements for your trip to Vietnam.