Best Western Rewards® Premium Mastercard® from First National Bank of Omaha Review

In the competitive world of travel rewards credit cards, the Best Western Rewards® Premium Mastercard® from First National Bank of Omaha stands out. With a generous points structure geared towards frequent travelers and those loyal to the Best Western hotel chain, this card is designed to provide substantial value. This review will delve into the various aspects of the Best Western Rewards® Premium Mastercard®, including its key takeaways, pros and cons, benefits, and a conclusion on whether it’s the right card for your wallet.

Best Western Rewards® Premium Mastercard® Key Takeaways

Generous Points Structure

The Best Western Rewards® Premium Mastercard® offers an impressive points structure:
– 40,000 points when you spend $5,000 every 12 billing cycles.
– 20x points per $1 spent on Best Western purchases.
– 2x points per $1 spent on all other purchases.
– 80,000 points when you spend $3,000 in the first 3 billing cycles after the account is opened.

Annual Fee

The card comes with an $89 annual fee. While this fee might seem steep to some, the potential rewards and benefits can easily offset this cost if you maximize the card’s offerings.

Interest Rates

The purchase APR ranges from 23.24% to 29.74% variable, which is relatively high. It’s crucial to pay off your balance in full each month to avoid these high-interest charges.

No Foreign Transaction Fees

For international travelers, the absence of foreign transaction fees is a significant advantage. This can save you money on every purchase made outside the United States.

Best Western Rewards® Premium Mastercard® Pros and Cons

Pros

– High Reward Rates: 20x points on Best Western purchases and 2x points on all other purchases are highly competitive.
– Sign-Up Bonus: The 80,000 points for spending $3,000 in the first 3 billing cycles is an attractive offer.
– No Foreign Transaction Fees: Ideal for international travelers.
– Travel Benefits: Access to free nights, upgrades, and other perks at Best Western properties.

Cons

– Annual Fee: The $89 annual fee might be a deterrent for some, especially if they don’t frequently stay at Best Western properties.
– High APR: With a variable APR ranging from 23.24% to 29.74%, carrying a balance can become costly.
– Limited Elite Status Benefits: While the card offers some travel perks, it lacks comprehensive elite status benefits available with other premium travel cards.

Best Western Rewards® Premium Mastercard® Benefits

Reward Points

The primary benefit of the Best Western Rewards® Premium Mastercard® is its robust rewards system. Here’s a closer look at how you can maximize your points:

40,000 Points Every 12 Billing Cycles

By spending $5,000 within a year, you earn 40,000 points. This can be relatively easy to achieve with regular use of the card for everyday expenses.

20x Points on Best Western Purchases

For those who frequently stay at Best Western properties, earning 20 points for every dollar spent can quickly add up. This includes spending on room rates, dining at the hotel, and other services provided by Best Western.

2x Points on All Other Purchases

Even outside of Best Western properties, you continue to earn a respectable 2 points for every dollar spent. This makes the card versatile for all types of spending.

80,000 Points Sign-Up Bonus

The sign-up bonus is one of the most compelling features of this card. By spending $3,000 within the first 3 billing cycles, you can earn 80,000 points. This can translate to several free nights at Best Western properties, depending on the location and time of booking.

Travel Benefits

Beyond the points, the Best Western Rewards® Premium Mastercard® offers several travel-related benefits:

No Foreign Transaction Fees

This feature can save you a significant amount of money if you travel abroad frequently. Foreign transaction fees typically range from 1% to 3% of the purchase amount, so their absence here is a notable advantage.

Free Nights and Upgrades

The points you earn can be redeemed for free nights at Best Western hotels. Additionally, cardholders may qualify for room upgrades and other perks, enhancing their stay experience.

Travel and Purchase Protections

The card offers various protections, including travel accident insurance and purchase protection. These can provide peace of mind when traveling or making significant purchases.

Customer Service

First National Bank of Omaha is known for its robust customer service. Cardholders can manage their accounts online, pay bills, and access customer support for any issues or inquiries.

Conclusion

The Best Western Rewards® Premium Mastercard® from First National Bank of Omaha is a compelling option for travelers, particularly those who frequently stay at Best Western properties. The card’s generous points structure, significant sign-up bonus, and absence of foreign transaction fees make it an attractive choice.
However, potential cardholders must consider the $89 annual fee and the high variable APR. If you can maximize the rewards and benefits, the annual fee can be offset by the value you receive from the points and travel perks. Conversely, carrying a balance on this card can be costly due to the high-interest rates, so it’s best suited for those who can pay off their balance in full each month.
In summary, the Best Western Rewards® Premium Mastercard® is a solid choice for Best Western loyalists and frequent travelers looking to capitalize on a robust rewards program. By leveraging the card’s benefits, you can enjoy significant savings and enhanced travel experiences.