Maximize Your Travels with Chase Business Cards
I’ve always viewed running a business as an adventure in its own right, and like any great journey, the right gear can make every mile more exciting. Over the years, I’ve learned that business credit cards can turn even the most routine expenses—like printing services or client lunches—into opportunities for top-tier travel perks. In the current landscape, especially heading into 2025, I’ve seen more and more entrepreneurs tap into these cards to unlock rewards they can use on everything from weekend getaways to international client visits.
According to the Federal Reserve‘s 2023 Small Business Credit Survey, nearly half of small businesses rely on credit cards to manage their day-to-day transactions and cash flow. That’s why I’ve become a firm believer that, with the help of Chase‘s business credit cards, those routine costs can be recast into meaningful travel benefits. Let’s explore why Chase stands out and how two unique offerings, the Ink Business Preferred and Ink Business Premier, might elevate your journey.
Why Chase Business Credit Cards?
One of the first things I noticed when exploring Chase’s business lineup is how neatly these cards separate personal and company spending. It used to be a headache managing expenses across multiple spreadsheets, but now, having a dedicated business credit card keeps everything organized—particularly during tax season. Chase’s rewards programs help me feel like each purchase doubles as a step toward my next dream trip.
For example, some of Chase’s cards provide immediate benefits, like 0% intro APR for a set period. That can give a fast-growing startup or a consulting practice the breathing room to expand without taking on excessive interest costs. A recent study from the U.S. Small Business Administration in 2024 showed that flexible financing options like these can significantly improve cash flow, which can, in turn, fuel innovation and growth. In my experience, being able to invest in new tech or a marketing campaign without immediate finance charges is a game-changer.
Chase’s Ultimate Rewards platform is especially appealing. Points never expire as long as your account remains open, which eliminates the rush to redeem them. Whether I’m spending on airline tickets, ridesharing, or client dinners, I enjoy the freedom of knowing those points will be there when I’m ready to book my next big trip. Plus, many cards in the portfolio include protective perks like extended warranties, additional travel coverage, and lost luggage reimbursement, offering real peace of mind during travels.
Top Pick #1: Ink Business Preferred
The Ink Business Preferred quickly became a favorite of mine when I realized it offered a generous 90,000-point bonus after spending $8,000 in the first three months. In my own travels, those points have translated into flights to conferences across the country. On top of that, you’ll earn triple points on up to $150,000 every year in select categories—like social media advertising, travel, and shipping—making it a potent tool for businesses with varied expense profiles.
What really sets the Ink Business Preferred apart is how seamlessly its points transfer to popular Chase partners. I once transferred points directly to an airline partner for a late-breaking trip, saving me hundreds of dollars on last-minute bookings. It’s like having an unlock code for a variety of reward programs, whether you’re planning a five-star hotel stay or a quick domestic flight. And according to industry data from 2024, cards with versatile transfer options can increase point value by as much as 25% compared to basic cash-back models.
Travel and purchase protection features are the icing on the cake. Insurance for lost or delayed luggage, cell phone damage protection, and rental car coverage can help you feel guarded against costly mishaps. In my line of work, juggling meeting schedules and long-haul flights across multiple time zones, it’s reassuring to know that these perks can help smooth out the rough edges of business travel.
Top Pick #2: Ink Business Premier
If your business operations involve significant spending, the Ink Business Premier may be the better fit. It offers a hefty 100,000-point bonus (worth $1,000 in cash back) once you shell out $10,000 within three months. That threshold might sound steep, but if you’re financing big projects—like renovating an office or purchasing specialized equipment—this card can transform those costs into a major stash of points.
Another standout feature is the earning structure. You get 2% cash back on all purchases, which is already quite solid, but there’s also 2.5% on single purchases of $5,000 or more. I recall needing to book a large block of flights for a team retreat, and that bonus rate boosted the value of the transaction significantly. Meanwhile, 5% on travel booked through Chase saved me a tidy sum on a series of hotel stays along the West Coast.
While the Ink Business Premier’s rewards can’t be transferred to other Ultimate Rewards accounts, they still hold weight when redeemed for travel, statement credits, or gift cards. In my experience, this straightforward redemption setup is ideal for companies that want a powerful, no-nonsense approach to earning. The $195 annual fee feels justified if you factor in the card’s robust perks and its potential for scaling rewards in proportion to your business expenses.
Additional Options to Consider
Chase’s portfolio doesn’t end with these two cards. The Ink Business Unlimited®, for instance, is a great no-annual-fee alternative if you simply want a reliable 1.5% cash back on all purchases—plus an introductory bonus that can earn you $750 after putting $6,000 on the card. I’ve noticed that startups with erratic expense patterns often prefer a single flat rate instead of juggling multiple bonus categories.
There are also specialized cards such as the Ink Business Cash, IHG One Rewards, or World of Hyatt Business cards. Each provides its own unique spin: the Ink Business Cash offers strong bonuses for office supplies, while the Hyatt card can upgrade your hotel status for those times you crave an extra-luxurious stay. A recent industry survey in 2024 indicated that business travelers who pair hotel-branded cards with frequent stays can save an average of 15% on lodging costs annually. In my experience, if you’re partial to a particular hotel chain or airline alliance, co-branded options can add another layer of efficiency and savings.
Most of these cards also feature the possibility of 0% intro APR or category-based spending bonuses, offering what I see as a tactical advantage. Whether you’re hoping to test a new marketing tactic or tackle unforeseen travel expenses, having that level of flexibility ensures you can respond quickly without sacrificing your bottom line.
Choosing Your Best Fit
To me, card selection always comes down to how you plan to use the rewards. If you’re a frequent flyer, you might prioritize a card that allows for easy point transfers to your favorite airline or that offers extra perks like primary car rental coverage and trip cancellation insurance. On the flip side, if your business debt swings wildly from one month to the next, a flat-rate cash-back card can keep things simple and predictable.
I’ve observed that entrepreneurs who value convenience typically lean toward no-annual-fee cards with understandable earning categories. Meanwhile, road warriors who rack up miles monthly often look for more premium perks, even if it means paying an annual fee. Ultimately, the right approach is the one that supports your goals, whether that’s building brand awareness through ad spend or earning enough points for a well-deserved getaway. Keeping an eye on updated offers and reading credible resources, like the U.S. News credit card rankings in 2024, can help you time your application for the best promotions.
At the end of the day, there’s no single perfect solution—just the one that aligns best with where you want to take your business and how you prefer to travel. I like to think of it as choosing a co-pilot: pick a card that’s ready to back you up on every journey.
Final Thoughts
Chase’s lineup of business cards underscores how everyday spending can become the spark that ignites remarkable travel experiences. From the Ink Business Preferred’s versatile points-transfer system to the Ink Business Premier’s large-scale rewards structure, each card offers a unique path to earning valuable benefits. Whether you juggle international conferences or keep things local, it’s all about choosing the card that best complements your business’s spending habits and future ambitions.
I’ve found that maintaining a straightforward rewards strategy helps you stay focused on what really matters—growing your business and rewarding yourself along the way. Understanding the fine print, monitoring interest rates, and planning your redemptions in advance can all contribute to maximized returns. If you keep your goals front and center, these cards can become more than just a payment method: They’re potential catalysts for your next venture or vacation.
Amelia Yeaher’s Take
This topic resonates with me because I’ve witnessed firsthand how strategic credit card usage can turn a busy schedule of work-related expenses into a gateway for exploration and discovery. It’s all about identifying which card suits your operation and your unique aspirations—ensuring that every dollar you spend on business tasks carries you closer to those experiences you can’t wait to enjoy.
I’ll always champion the idea that technology, data, and a flair for adventure can combine to simplify life and spark new possibilities. Chase’s business credit cards stand at the intersection of practicality and exploration, and there’s nothing quite like seeing those points add up, ready for your next flight.
Seat5A is where you’ll find the latest in travel insights and innovations.
