6 ways to maximize the Chase Sapphire Preferred as a beginner

When I opened the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees) over two years ago, I had no idea how quickly it would become my go-to tool for earning travel rewards — or how much value I'd be able to unlock.Since then, I've used it to book international flights, navigate unexpected travel hiccups and learn how to stretch points far more than I imagined when I first applied.Whether you're new to earning travel rewards or recently picked up the card yourself, here are six beginner-friendly ways to make the most of the Sapphire Preferred.Use the welcome bonus to help cover your next tripEarning a welcome bonus is one of the easiest ways for beginners to kick-start their points and miles journey, and the Chase Sapphire Preferred gives new cardholders the chance to earn a meaningful amount of Chase Ultimate Rewards points after meeting the minimum spending requirement.Because Chase Ultimate Rewards points hold strong value and offer flexible redemption options, that welcome bonus can stretch surprisingly far. A substantial stash of points can easily cover a domestic round-trip, multiple hotel nights or even part of an international itinerary.Right now, new cardholders can earn 7...