> The problem with credit unions are most are regional

My CUs are west-coast, and I moved to the east coast last year. I haven't run into any problems. On the off-chance I had to walk into a brick-and-mortar bank (depositing cash is about the only reason I'd need to do that, so never), I could visit a coop instead.

> I don't agree CUs are more competitive always than big banks

Absolutely. We're on a mainstream brand miles reward card because my wife likes traveling. CC rewards at my CU were basically worthless - the rates were pretty competitive, though.