The newly launched One Key™ Card and One Key+™ Card from Expedia are making waves in the world of travel rewards. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or someone who enjoys using Expedia, Hotels.com, or Vrbo, these cards offer impressive welcome bonuses and strong earnings rates.
This article will take you through the details of these two cards, what they offer, and how you can earn up to $600 in OneKeyCash to use on future trips.
Expedia’s One Key rewards program has integrated seamlessly with the launch of these two credit cards: the One Key™ Card and the One Key+™ Card. Both cards are designed to reward users for purchases made through Expedia Group platforms while also offering everyday rewards on other categories like dining, groceries, and gas stations.
Let’s explore each card and what they offer.
One Key™ Card: No Annual Fee, Generous Rewards
The One Key Card is a no-annual-fee option that provides solid rewards for travel enthusiasts who regularly book on Expedia, Hotels.com, or Vrbo.
Key Details:
- Annual Fee: $0
- Welcome Offer: Earn $400 in OneKeyCash after spending $1,000 within the first 3 months.
- Rewards Structure:
- 3% in OneKeyCash on purchases through Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo.
- 3% at gas stations, grocery stores, and dining.
- 1.5% on all other purchases.
Key Benefits:
- Automatic Silver Status: Enjoy 15% or more savings on over 10,000 hotels worldwide.
- Path to Gold Status: Spend $15,000 annually to unlock One Key Gold status, offering even more exclusive perks.
Is it worth it?
If you frequently use Expedia platforms and don’t want to pay an annual fee, this card offers great rewards and can help you earn OneKeyCash that’s redeemable for travel. Keep in mind, OneKeyCash can only be used on Expedia, Hotels.com, or Vrbo, and is not redeemable for actual cash.
One Key+™ Card: Bigger Rewards, Premium Benefits
For those willing to pay a $99 annual fee, the One Key+ Card takes your rewards game to the next level. It offers larger bonuses and comes with additional perks that make it a great option for frequent travelers.
Key Details:
- Annual Fee: $99
- Welcome Offer: Earn $600 in OneKeyCash after spending $3,000 within the first 3 months.
- Rewards Structure:
- 3% in OneKeyCash on Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo purchases.
- 3% at gas stations, grocery stores, and dining.
- 2% on all other purchases.
Key Benefits:
- Global Entry or TSA PreCheck: Receive up to $100 statement credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.
- Annual $100 OneKeyCash: On your cardholder anniversary, you’ll receive $100 in OneKeyCash.
- Automatic Gold Status: Get 20% or more savings on hotels, priority support, and other perks.
- Path to Platinum Status: Spend $30,000 annually to achieve One Key Platinum status, unlocking exclusive benefits.
Is it worth it?
If you travel frequently and can take advantage of the Gold Status and the Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit, the One Key+ Card easily justifies its $99 annual fee. The $600 welcome bonus is also a major draw, making it ideal for those who want to maximize travel rewards.
How OneKeyCash Works
Both the One Key Card and the One Key+ Card offer OneKeyCash as rewards currency, but it’s important to understand how you can use it.
Key Facts About OneKeyCash:
- Where You Can Use It: OneKeyCash can be redeemed for bookings on Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo.
- Non-Cash Option: While valuable, OneKeyCash can’t be redeemed for actual cash.
- Use It for Travel: You can apply OneKeyCash toward flights, hotels, car rentals, and more on the Expedia Group platforms.
Maximizing OneKeyCash:
Since OneKeyCash is only usable for travel bookings, you’ll get the most value from it by booking trips through the Expedia Group sites. It’s best suited for frequent travelers who are comfortable using Expedia, Hotels.com, or Vrbo for their travel needs.
Comparing the Two Cards
Here’s a quick comparison of the One Key™ Card and One Key+™ Card to help you decide which one is right for you:
| Card | Annual Fee | Welcome Offer | OneKeyCash Earnings | Notable Perks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Key™ Card | $0 | $400 after spending $1,000 | 3% on Expedia, Hotels.com, Vrbo; 3% on gas, groceries, dining | Automatic Silver Status |
| One Key+™ Card | $99 | $600 after spending $3,000 | 3% on Expedia, Hotels.com, Vrbo; 3% on gas, groceries, dining | Gold Status, Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit |
Both cards offer competitive rewards, but the One Key+ Card provides more benefits that may justify the $99 annual fee if you frequently travel and use the Expedia Group platforms.
Tips to Maximize Your One Key Credit Card Rewards
To get the most out of these new One Key credit cards, follow these simple tips:
Maximize Welcome Bonuses:
- Spend $1,000 within 3 months on the One Key Card to earn $400 OneKeyCash.
- Spend $3,000 within 3 months on the One Key+ Card to earn $600 OneKeyCash.
Use for Everyday Purchases:
- Earn 3% OneKeyCash at gas stations, grocery stores, and on dining with both cards. Use them for everyday purchases to build rewards faster.
Redeem for Travel:
- Redeem your OneKeyCash for bookings on Expedia, Hotels.com, or Vrbo to maximize value. It’s best to plan your trips through these platforms to fully utilize the rewards.
Leverage Status Perks:
- Use the Silver or Gold status you automatically get with these cards to unlock exclusive hotel savings and priority support.
Amazing Thoughts
If you’re looking to boost your travel rewards, the One Key™ Card and One Key+™ Card offer excellent value. With welcome bonuses worth up to $600, competitive earnings rates, and exclusive status perks, these cards are designed to give travelers more value for their spending.
Whether you go for the no-annual-fee One Key Card or the feature-packed One Key+ Card, you’ll be earning valuable OneKeyCash that can help make your next trip more affordable.
