If you’re a frequent traveler, having the right credit card can make all the difference in your journey. The American Express Platinum Card is one of the best options available for those who travel often. This card offers an array of benefits that cater to travelers, providing convenience, luxury, and significant savings. Here’s why the American Express Platinum Card is the ultimate choice for frequent flyers and globetrotters.
Access to Airport Lounges
One of the standout features of the American Express Platinum Card is its access to airport lounges. As a cardholder, you’ll enjoy entry into the Global Lounge Collection, which includes over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide. This collection covers the prestigious Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs, and Priority Pass Select Lounges. Whether you’re waiting for a domestic flight or traveling internationally, you can relax in comfort before boarding.
These lounges offer amenities like free food and beverages, comfortable seating, high-speed Wi-Fi, and even showers in some locations. Access to these spaces can transform your airport experience, helping you relax before your flight or catch up on work in a quiet environment. With lounge access, layovers and delays become much more bearable.
Travel Credits and Fee Reimbursements
The American Express Platinum Card also offers valuable travel credits that can offset the cost of flights, hotels, and other travel expenses. Cardholders receive an annual $200 airline fee credit, which can be used toward incidental charges like baggage fees or in-flight refreshments on your chosen airline. This credit alone can cover part of your yearly card fee if you travel frequently.
Additionally, the card provides an annual $189 CLEAR credit, allowing you to breeze through airport security faster. There’s also a $200 hotel credit for Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel. These credits can help you save money while enjoying premium travel experiences.
Points for Every Purchase
The American Express Platinum Card offers an excellent rewards program for travelers. You’ll earn 5x Membership Rewards points on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel. You’ll also earn 5x points on prepaid hotel stays booked through American Express Travel. For everyday purchases, you’ll receive 1x point per dollar spent.
Membership Rewards points are highly versatile and can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, and car rentals through the American Express Travel portal. Alternatively, you can transfer your points to one of the many airline and hotel loyalty programs that partner with American Express. This flexibility makes it easy to maximize your rewards and book your next trip with ease.
Premium Travel Protections
When you’re on the road frequently, travel disruptions can be frustrating. The American Express Platinum Card comes with comprehensive travel protections to ease the burden of unexpected delays or cancellations. Cardholders receive trip delay insurance, which covers costs incurred from delays of more than six hours. This can include meals, lodging, and other necessary expenses while you wait for your next flight.
If your trip is canceled or interrupted due to illness, weather, or other covered reasons, trip cancellation insurance will reimburse you for non-refundable travel expenses. Additionally, baggage insurance is available for lost, damaged, or stolen luggage. These protections ensure that even when things don’t go as planned, you’re covered.
Luxury Hotel and Resort Perks
When booking a stay through American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts, Platinum cardholders enjoy exclusive benefits that enhance their experience. These perks often include daily breakfast for two, room upgrades upon availability, and guaranteed late check-out. You may also receive additional credits for dining, spa services, or other hotel amenities.
For those who prefer boutique hotels, The Hotel Collection offers similar benefits. You’ll receive a $100 experience credit to use at the property, and upgrades are often available at check-in. Whether you prefer luxury resorts or intimate boutique hotels, the American Express Platinum Card provides VIP treatment that makes your stay unforgettable.
Statement Credits for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry
Frequent travelers know how much time can be wasted waiting in airport security lines. With the American Express Platinum Card, you can expedite this process with a statement credit for either TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. Both programs allow you to skip long lines and get through security faster, giving you more time to relax or catch up on work before your flight.
Global Entry also includes TSA PreCheck, and it speeds up the customs process when you return to the United States after international travel. These perks are incredibly valuable for frequent flyers who want to reduce travel stress and maximize their time at the airport.
Exclusive Travel Experiences
American Express offers exclusive experiences and services that cater to Platinum cardholders. Through the Platinum Concierge, you can receive assistance with dining reservations, event tickets, and even travel itineraries. If you need recommendations for a special night out or help securing a hard-to-get reservation, the Platinum Concierge can help make it happen.
Additionally, the card gives you access to premium events, such as concerts, theater performances, and sporting events. You’ll receive early access to tickets and invitations to private experiences that aren’t available to the general public. These exclusive perks elevate your travel experience, providing you with access to luxury beyond just flights and hotels.