As a seasoned traveler and a mom who loves finding the best deals and maximizing rewards, I often get asked about choosing the right travel credit card. Today, let’s dive into a detailed comparison between two popular options from Marriott’s lineup offered by Chase: the Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful® Credit Card and the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card. Both cards offer enticing benefits for travelers, but understanding their nuances can help you pick the perfect one for your wallet and travel style.
Key Features of Marriott Bonvoy Credit Cards
Welcome Bonuses
- Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful: Earn 85,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 within the first three months.
- Marriott Bonvoy Boundless: Earn three free night awards (up to 50,000 points each) after spending $3,000 in the first three months.
Annual Fees
- Bountiful: $250
- Boundless: $95
Point Earnings
- Bountiful:
- 6 points per dollar on Marriott purchases.
- 4 points per dollar on up to $15,000 annually in combined grocery store and dining purchases; then 2 points.
- 2 points per dollar on all other purchases.
- Boundless:
- 6 points per dollar on Marriott purchases.
- 3 points per dollar on up to $6,000 annually in combined purchases at gas stations, grocery stores, and dining; then 2 points.
- 2 points per dollar on all other purchases.
Elite Status and Other Benefits
- Bountiful: Gold Elite status, 1,000 bonus points per stay, annual free night award after you spend $15,000 within a year.
- Boundless: Silver Elite status, an annual free night award on your account anniversary, worth up to 35,000 points.
Deciding Between Bonvoy Bountiful and Boundless
Considering the Welcome Offers
If you’re planning a big trip or can meet the higher spending threshold, the Bountiful card’s 85,000 bonus points offer substantial value. However, the Boundless card’s three free night awards, potentially worth up to 150,000 points, provide incredible value well above the cost of the annual fee, especially if you use them at high-tier Marriott properties.
Annual Fee vs. Benefits
The Bountiful card’s higher annual fee is justified with richer benefits like Gold Elite status, which offers enhanced room upgrades and a 25% bonus on points earned during stays. However, if you’re budget-conscious and prefer a lower fee, the Boundless card still offers valuable perks like a free night each year, which can easily offset the annual fee.
Spending Rewards
For families who spend a lot on groceries and dining, the Bountiful card’s higher points on these categories can add up quickly. However, if your spending is more diversified or you spend a lot on gas, the Boundless card provides broader earning potential with its bonus categories.
Personal Experience and Recommendation
From my own travels and managing family budgets, I appreciate a card that gives back more for every dollar spent. The Bonvoy Bountiful aligns with high spenders who frequent Marriott properties and leverage the grocery and dining points. However, for many families and occasional travelers, the Bonvoy Boundless strikes an excellent balance between the annual fee and valuable perks.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right card depends on your travel frequency, spending habits, and how much you value elite status perks. Both the Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful and Boundless cards offer great value, but aligning their benefits with your personal and travel needs will maximize your rewards and overall travel experience.
For more tips on travel, maximizing your budget, and balancing family life with adventures, check out more articles at AmazingMiles.com. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a grand family vacation, the right travel credit card is your gateway to saving more and traveling better.
