Picture this: you’re cruising down the open road, the wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and the sweet taste of freedom on your lips. You pull up to a toll booth, confidently flashing your Chase Sapphire Preferred card, imagining all the points you’re racking up for your next big adventure. But wait, does that EZ Pass lane qualify as a travel expense? Will your dreams of that beachside bungalow in Bali be dashed against the rocks of reality?
Don’t hit the brakes on your travel aspirations just yet! Let’s unpack this question and see if those tolls can pave the way for your next reward trip.
Decoding Your Chase Sapphire Preferred Benefits
The Chase Sapphire Preferred is a traveler’s best friend, offering a plethora of benefits like bonus points on dining and travel, travel insurance, and more. But the definition of “travel” can be a bit like a winding road – sometimes it’s clear and straightforward, other times it’s full of unexpected twists and turns.
What Counts as “Travel”?
Chase broadly defines “travel” as expenses directly related to:
- Airlines: This one’s a no-brainer. Think plane tickets, baggage fees, and even those overpriced airport snacks.
- Hotels: From luxurious resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts, your lodging falls under the travel umbrella.
- Car rentals: Whether you’re exploring the Scottish Highlands or the California coast, renting a car definitely counts.
- Cruises: Set sail on the high seas and watch your points accumulate faster than seagulls following a shrimp boat.
- Travel agencies: Planning a complex itinerary? Using a travel agency can qualify for bonus points.
- Public transportation: Buses, trains, ferries – if it gets you from point A to point B in a new city, you’re likely good to go.
The Case of the Elusive EZ Pass
Here’s where things get a little tricky. While tolls are undeniably a part of travel, especially road trips, they don’t explicitly fall under any of Chase’s defined travel categories.
The Verdict?
Unfortunately, EZ Pass tolls do not qualify as travel expenses for the Chase Sapphire Preferred card. You won’t earn those coveted bonus points for zipping through toll booths.
Don’t Despair, There’s Still Hope for Points!
While your EZ Pass expenses won’t earn you bonus points on your Chase Sapphire Preferred, there are still plenty of ways to maximize your rewards while on the open road:
- Pay for gas with your Chase Sapphire Preferred: You can earn 2x points on gas station purchases, helping you fuel your adventures and your points balance.
- Book your rental car through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal: You can often find competitive rates and earn additional points on your rental.
- Dine at restaurants along your route: Remember, you get 2x points on dining, so indulge in those local delicacies!
Planning a Road Trip? Consider These Feng Shui Tips:
Before you hit the road, why not invite some positive energy into your journey with a few Feng Shui tips:
- Declutter your car: A clean and organized car promotes a sense of calm and clarity.
- Choose auspicious colors: Consider incorporating colors like green (growth and adventure) or blue (peace and tranquility) into your car accessories.
- Play uplifting music: Music has a powerful effect on our mood, so curate a playlist that inspires joy and adventure.
