Chase Sapphire Reserve in 2026: Keep or Downgrade? | Hurdy Gurdy Travel Podcast with Justin Vacula & Hunter Threadgill

Join host Justin Vacula and special guest Hunter Threadgill of Professor of Points as they take a deep dive into whether the Chase Sapphire Reserve is still worth keeping in 2026.

They walk through the new and existing benefits, including the $300 travel credit, dining and hotel perks, StubHub credits, and other lifestyle benefits, and weigh them against the rising annual fee.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction to Travel Rewards

00:44 Guest Introduction: Hunter Threadgill

01:56 Chase Sapphire Reserve Benefits Overview

02:57 Travel Credits and Real World Value

04:58 Hotel and Dining Credits Discussion

14:53 StubHub and Other Lifestyle Benefits

20:38 Meditation, Peloton, and Wellness Perks

21:21 Lounge Access and Travel Protections

24:03 Advanced Tactics: Upgrading and Downgrading

24:18 Announcements and Upcoming Events

25:50 CardPointers and Monthly Meetups

28:58 Is Chase Sapphire Reserve a Keeper?

36:40 Upcoming Travels and Status Goals

43:10 Frequent Traveler Education Foundation

45:04 Closing Remarks and Social Handles

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