What Is the Chase Sapphire/Freedom Two-Card Combo?
The idea is simple: use one card to earn points fast, and another to redeem those points for maximum value. I currently have my sons in college using the Chase Freedom Unlimited for all their purchases. Their main purchases are restaurants. I get 3% back, and the card has no annual fee! I try to keep it simple for those living in my house, so I examine their spending and give them one or two cards to use.
New to points and miles? Check out my travel hacking guide-> Travel hacking mom strategy
The Classic Combo:
Card 1: Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Earns 1.5% cash back on everything (plus bonus categories including 3% back on restaurants and pharmacies).
No annual fee
Card 2: Chase Sapphire Preferred® or Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Unlocks travel transfer partners (Hyatt, United, Virgin Atlantic, etc.)
Offers travel protections, bonus categories, and redemption boosts
Check out my reviews of the Chase Sapphire Preferred and Chase Sapphire Reserve to see which one is best for you! I have kept one of these cards in my wallet since they were first introduced. I love the transfer partners for Chase Ultimate Rewards -> Chase Ultimate Rewards Transfer Partners
Together, these cards create a powerful team:
You earn points quickly with Freedom Unlimited
You move those points to Sapphire
You redeem them for outsized travel value
Why This Combo Works
Freedom Unlimited earns Chase Ultimate Rewards® points, which can be pooled with Sapphire.
Both Sapphire cards unlock transfer partners, turning everyday spend into hotel suites, flights, and cruise add-ons.
Tips to Maximize the Combo
Use Freedom Unlimited for non-bonus spend (groceries, gas, bills)
Use Sapphire for travel and dining
Track your points in one dashboard using Chase’s Ultimate Rewards portal
Don’t redeem Freedom points for cash back—transfer them to Sapphire first!
Who Should Use This Strategy?
Beginners who want a simple, high-earning setup
Families who want to earn from everyday spending
Cruise lovers who need flights and hotels covered
Anyone working toward Hyatt redemptions or airline upgrades
Final Thoughts
The Two-Card Combo is one of the easiest ways to start travel hacking without overcomplicating your wallet. It’s flexible, powerful, and perfect for building a points foundation that supports your adventures—whether you're flying to Alaska or staycationing in Nashville.
