If you don’t use Expedia, Vrbo or Hotels.com you really can’t make the most of this card and should look elsewhere. You can only redeem your OneKeyCash through those three providers. It’s also missing intro APR offers, so it lacks value outside of its restrictive rewards program.
Redemptions: Restrictive redemptions limit rewards value
You cannot redeem OneKeyCash—this card’s rewards currency—for cash and can only use it on Expedia®, Hotels.com® and Vrbo®. Although this card has a strong rewards rate and substantial welcome offer, its rewards currency is notably inflexible so it might lack value for a majority of travel rewards enthusiasts.
On top of its already restrictive redemption terms, the One Key+ card doesn’t even allow you to redeem for cash, which is a feature widely available on other rewards cards. Even though you’ll typically exchange points for cash at a lower exchange rate, it's a flexible and consumer-friendly benefit that helps cardholders make the most of their rewards earnings.
You’ll only be able to access your OneKeyCash if you use Expedia, Vrbo or Hotels.com. This limitation can be a thorn in your side if you want to plan a trip outside of these third-party providers. For a less rigid rewards program, consider another travel rewards credit card. Many alternatives have flexible redemption options to help you access the rewards you spent hard to earn.
Intro APR: No interest-free period
Although not everyone can benefit from an interest-free period provided by introductory APRs on purchases, balance transfers or both, it’s still a welcome feature on any credit card. The One Key+ card skips this feature. This exclusion makes it a poor choice if you have current debt you’re willing to transfer or if you have some big purchases coming up you’re hoping to save on interest.
Many rewards and cash back cards have intro APR periods of up to 15 months, sometimes longer. These offers allow you to skip interest on purchases and balance transfers, so they’re often a valuable lifeline when your budget is thin but your needs are high. If you want to explore options for cards with intro APRs, consider some of the top low interest credit cards or a handful of the best rewards credit cards. Many of the cards on both of those lists are there because they provide value, convenience and affordability.
Annual fee: May not be worth it for occasional travelers
Expedia and other third-party travel websites provide access to budget-friendly travel deals for savvy shoppers who find ways to save on every leg of their travel itinerary. If you’re a cost-conscious traveler who uses these websites, you might be skeptical of a credit card’s annual fee.
The One Key+ card’s annual fee is not much higher than competing cards’ annual fees, and it shouldn’t be too hard to justify because the value of the annual anniversary credit makes the annual fee worthwhile, plus the card has generous rewards rates. However, an annual fee reflects a spend-oriented credit card strategy, which is adverse to a saving strategy that would normally drive someone to providers like Expedia in place of paying first-party prices directly through airlines or hotel chains.
Unless you’re among the most devoted Expedia, Vrbo or Hotels.com customers, you might want to skip this card because of its high annual fee. However, if you’re already poised to spend at least $100 at any of the above providers, the card’s annual $100 OneKeyCash credit will help justify the card’s annual fee every account anniversary.
