Smart Travel: Upgrade Your Getaways · Wednesday, August 5, 2026
When considering booking flights for a spouse, using the primary cardholder's card (e.g., United Club card with a $695 annual fee) may offer a better earning potential for miles compared to a zero-annual-fee card. United's recent overhaul means basic economy fares earn no miles unless the traveler has elite status or a co-branded card.
“My husband has a zero annual fee United Gateway card, which is the United card. I have a higher fee United Club card as the primary, which by the way, that card has a $695 annual fee.”
“So, in early April, United Airlines overhauled how travelers earn miles and its loyalty program. So, now general mileage plus members who don't have a United credit card can earn fewer miles on their flights if you are a cardholder and you're an elite status holder, you can earn more miles.”
“And then this is the kicker, if you purchase a basic economy fair, you will no longer earn miles on your flight unless you have United elite status or a United co-branded credit card.”