amex platinum travel upgrade

The Platinum Card® from American Express Review: How I Use It to Upgrade Rooms, Maintain Airline Status, and More

By Sheryl Bond

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UPDATE: Welcome offers for the cards listed below may be out of date. Confirm the current welcome offers on each card issuer's site

We have been together for 21 years. It was not love at first sight; I thought you were out of my league. You now have my heart and my wallet . When I first discovered American Express , I did not understand the difference between credit and charge cards. After completing a debt management program with Consumer Credit Counseling in 1995, I used cash for six years to pay for all goods and services. In 2001, I finally applied for the American Express Green Card. In 2003, I upgraded to Gold and finally moved up to Platinum in 2006.

It was not until I started carrying The Platinum Card® from American Express that I began traveling, and now that I understand the travel rewards game, I can play. Read on for my review of the card and how I make the most of its many benefits.

Is the American Express Platinum Card worth the $695 annual fee?

Yes—the $600 in airline fee, hotel, and Uber Cash credits (terms apply; enrollment required) alone are worth the annual fee. But also consider splitting the costs: You can add an authorized user to your card for $195. I recruited my sisters to join me and my son in 2021 when the Platinum Card fee increased from $550 to $695. We split the $870 total between the four of us. (See the Platinum Card's rates and fees .)

Thanks to her card, Bond took $200 off her hotel stay at SLS Baha Mar and received a $100 experience credit to use during her stay.

Platinum Card travel benefits and perks

The Platinum Card has more than 20 travel benefits and perks —here is how I use a few of the most valuable ones. (Terms apply to travel benefits and perks; enrollment is required.)

My most used benefit is the $200 annual Uber Cash credit. I take a ride share to and from the airport when a complimentary hotel shuttle is unavailable. The credit breaks down to $15 per month with an extra $20 in December. If I don't spend the credit on transportation, I use it to order food through Uber Eats.

Then there is the annual hotel credit: I took advantage of the $200 credit for my prepaid two-night stay in the Bahamas at SLS Baha Mar . Because SLS is in the American Express Hotel Collection, I received a $100 experience credit to spend at designated restaurants, spas, or resort activities. When I checked in, an upgrade was available to an ocean view room, another benefit of reserving rooms in the Hotel Collection.

To avoid the stress of long lines while going through security screenings, my family takes advantage of the PreCheck credit. When you pay for a Known Traveler Number with your Platinum Card, you will receive an $85 credit. My son and I were both approved for TSA PreCheck and received an adjustment on our cards. Global Entry and Clear credits are available too.

Another major perk of the card is access to the Global Lounge Collection, which includes Centurion, Escape, and Priority Pass Lounges. For now, two guests can tag along at no additional cost. If the rules change for lounge access, my authorized users can still enter because they have the same lounge benefits as me. On a recent trip to Las Vegas , my guest and I arrived at the Centurion Lounge in time to enjoy breakfast and lunch. The meals and cocktails would have cost more than $100. If your flight is on Delta, you will receive complimentary access to the Delta Sky Club. However, your guests will need to pay the $39 fee.

For those looking to maintain airline status, here is a travel hack that involves using the lounge perk: If it’s close to the end of the year and I’m short on segments, I will find a cheap flight on Southwest, fly early in the morning, hang out in a lounge, and take a flight home later that day. I do not spend money on food or waste points on a hotel, but I earn flights to keep my A-List status .

You can also use this hack to qualify for the Southwest Companion Pass Promotion every September to allow a companion to fly with you for free (taxes and fees apply) for two months starting in January. To take advantage of the promotion, register your Rapid Rewards number, purchase a round-trip or two one-way flights, and travel by the designated date. (To note, you cannot use points to book.) If you are not a Rapid Rewards member, register for free.

Because two checked bags fly free, I use the $200 airline fee credit to purchase alcoholic beverages on Southwest. You can also change your preferred airline every year in the benefits section of your AmEx portal. If you fly Delta, you may want to choose the airline as your preferred carrier and use the airline $39 fee credit to pay for your guest to enter the Sky Club.

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When I checked in at the Marriott for a timeshare vacation package in August, I informed the front desk clerk of my Gold Elite Status. She upgraded my room from the seventh to the 30 th floor, where I watched the sunrise every morning. In addition, you also receive automatic Gold Status with Hilton Honors . However, you must be a member of each hotel reward program and enroll online or call the American Express Platinum Card Service for it to be enabled.

Current welcome offer

As of publication, new cardholders can earn 80,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $8,000 on purchases within their first six months of card membership.

How to earn points

Cardholders earn 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel, as well as 5x points on hotels booked with American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 in purchases per calendar year). While not as steep, you can earn 1x membership rewards points by paying for recurring expenses like cell phone and internet bills with your card. I set up my home security system and mobile accounts for autopay, and my son also uses autopay for streaming services with no added charge. 

For those who are members of a Dining Rewards Program with a specific airline or hotel, know that you can link your Platinum Card to the program, too. You will earn both AmEx Membership Rewards points and points for your specific loyalty program. Lastly, it's worth noting I also earn points on all my authorized users' purchases.

How to spend/redeem points

You can use membership rewards points to pay eligible charges on the card, at check-out with select merchants, buy gift cards, book travel, or transfer points. Stack your benefits! Occasionally, I redeem points for Uber gift cards to add to my Uber account. I saved $354 off the cost of my reservation at SLS Baha Mar when I used the $200 Hotel Credit and applied 22,000 membership rewards points to the booking. Finally, I purchase and share Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy gift cards with my authorized users.

The bottom line

American Express was the first company to offer me a card in 1986 after graduating from college. More than 20 years later, the Platinum Card is my ultimate travel card. On a trip to Washington, D.C., I booked a room at the Waldorf Astoria and walked straight to the Smithsonian Institution Museums. I also reserved a room at Lotte New York Palace and crossed the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade off my bucket list. I “ don't live life without it ,” and my travels have been elevated ever since.

See rates and fees for the Platinum Card here .

Condé Nast Traveler has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Condé Nast Traveler and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.  

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The Guide to AmEx Platinum Rental Car Benefits

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Table of Contents

AmEx car rental insurance coverage

Amex discounts on premium car rental protection, amex platinum car rental elite status, car rental benefits on the platinum card® from american express.

The Platinum Card® from American Express offers benefits far beyond just access to over 1,400 airport lounges (including the Centurion Lounges ) and up to $200 in Uber cash each year.

Sure, those may be the marquee benefits on the card famous for its $ 695 annual fee, but the less-glamorous benefits are sometimes overlooked. And it's often those benefits that end up saving you the most money in the long run. That includes the rental car benefits offered through The Platinum Card® from American Express . Terms apply.

Here are some of the rental car perks that holders of The Platinum Card® from American Express receive, including complimentary car rental insurance and rental car elite status perks.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

Should you pay extra for car rental insurance at the counter, or purchase it from a third-party travel insurance provider? When you hold The Platinum Card® from American Express , you don't have to decide between shelling out for the rental car's insurance policy or going unprotected.

Holders of The Platinum Card® from American Express who pay for their rental with the card receive car rental loss and damage insurance, covering rental car theft or damage up to $75,000.

To get this secondary coverage at no additional cost, you only need to meet two requirements:

Use The Platinum Card® from American Express to reserve and pay for the entire cost of the rental.

Decline the collision damage waiver at the rental company counter.

Even better, this car rental benefit extends beyond just the rental car itself. Your personal property — such as luggage and electronics — is covered up to $1,000 per person (up to a maximum of $2,000) against loss or damage during your car rental.

If you incur medical expenses due to an accident in your rental car, AmEx will cover up to $5,000 in medical expenses per person for you and your passengers. And, in the worst-case scenario, cardmembers and their passengers are eligible for accidental death or dismemberment benefits.

Limitations to car rental insurance on The Platinum Card® from American Express

As good as the AmEx rental car protection is, it doesn't cover every car rental or every situations.

AmEx insurance doesn't work in some countries: Rentals in certain countries are not eligible for coverage. Examples include (but are not limited to) Australia, Italy and New Zealand.

Certain vehicles aren't covered: AmEx's car rental loss and damage insurance doesn't cover rentals of the following types of vehicles:

Full-sized or cargo vans.

Commercial minivans.

Customized vehicles.

Antique cars.

Limousines.

Off-road vehicles.

AmEx's insurance benefit doesn't include liability coverage: While your card covers damage to the car you rented, it doesn't cover liability for damage you cause to other vehicles or people. That said, if you already own a car then check your car insurance policy. That policy might have liability coverage that extends to rental cars. If not, you might still need a separate policy if you want maximum coverage.

It's secondary, not primary coverage : The Platinum Card® from American Express provides secondary coverage. That means you'll need to file with your insurance company first before you file with American Express. Terms apply.

It's fairly common for credit cards with car rental insurance benefits to only extend to primary coverage, save for a few exceptions including the Chase Sapphire Reserve® . Since Chase Sapphire Reserve® car rental insurance is primary coverage, not secondary, you don’t have to report the incident to your personal auto insurance company.

If you do want primary rental car insurance coverage, American Express sells premium car rental protection. This paid product covers car rentals of up to 42 consecutive days and specifically includes luxury cars and other premium vehicles — all for a reasonable rate of less than $25 per rental. Oftentimes, that's going to be a lot better of an option than purchasing coverage through the rental car company.

The exact price depends on your coverage selections and state of residency. To get up to $100,000 in theft and damage coverage, Florida residents have to pay $15.25 per rental, California residents are charged $17.95 and residents of all other states pay $24.95 per rental.

In addition to covering your rental car, AmEx premium car rental protection provides:

Up to $100,000 of accidental death or dismemberment coverage ($250,000 for California residents).

Up to $15,000 for secondary medical expenses per person.

Up to $5,000 for secondary personal property coverage ($15,000 for Florida residents).

However, as with the complimentary American Express Platinum car rental insurance, liability coverage isn't provided as part of this coverage.

Terms apply.

Cardholders of The Platinum Card® from American Express can receive elite status with three rental car companies: Avis Preferred Plus, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards and National Emerald Club.

Exact elite status benefits vary across programs, but generally entail rental car upgrades, accelerated credits toward free rentals and the ability to skip the rental car check-in counter when picking up your car.

Note that car rental elite status isn't automatically granted. You'll have to enroll with each car rental company by creating a loyalty account and linking your card.

» Learn more: How to avoid long lines at rental car counters

Avis Preferred Plus

Cardmembers can enroll to get Avis Preferred Plus status (which typically requires 12 rentals or spending $5,000 in a calendar year). This status level gets you a complimentary upgrade and bonus points each time you rent from Avis.

You'll also get access to a special Avis Preferred Plus reservations and customer service phone number. In addition, rental car deals are available when you use Avis Worldwide Discount discount code A756900. Terms apply.

Hertz Gold Plus Rewards President's Circle

Another car rental benefit of The Platinum Card® from American Express is President's Circle status in the Hertz Gold Plus Rewards program. This status lets you add an extra driver for no additional cost, bypass the counter and earn 1.5 points for every dollar spent, as well as guaranteed upgrades with all bookings.

Enrollment required. Terms apply.

National Car Rental Emerald Club Executive

Holders of The Platinum Card® from American Express can also enroll to get Executive tier status in National's Emerald Club program. With Executive tier status, you'll get to choose your preferred car from the Executive Selection area and get a guaranteed upgrade when renting at least a mid-size car.

Plus, as an Emerald Club Executive, you'll earn a complimentary rental day after earning just six rental credits instead of the typical seven rental credits. Terms apply.

» Learn more: How to get car rental elite status through airline or hotel status

Just for being a cardmember of The Platinum Card® from American Express , you receive well-rounded benefits whenever you rent a car — from elite status with three rental car companies to complimentary rental car protection coverage.

Note that enrollment is required for many of these benefits — even the paid premium car rental protection product. So, make sure to take a few minutes now to enroll to get elite status with Avis, Hertz and National. Then, make sure to pay for your car rentals with The Platinum Card® from American Express to get coverage.

If you travel often using a rental car, consider applying for a premium travel credit card that offers car rental benefits such as the The Platinum Card® from American Express . The car rental coverage isn't the best we've seen across all credit cards (that honor goes to the Chase Sapphire Reserve® , but it's still pretty good.

Despite the hefty annual fees that these types of cards command, they can often pay for themselves among frequent travelers based off of the travel insurance benefits alone.

Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply.

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply.

Please visit  americanexpress.com/benefitsguide  for more details.

Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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Is The Amex Platinum Still Worth it in 2024?

With its annual fee hiked to $799 (all figures in CAD) last year, the American Express Platinum Card is now the most expensive publicly-available credit card on the market.

Given this annual fee increase, the question that must be asked is, “is the Amex Platinum still worth it in 2024?”

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into whether you should apply for, keep, or cancel the American Express Platinum Card.

Amex Increases the Annual Fee of the Platinum Card

In 2023, American Express Canada announced that it would be increasing the annual fee for the Platinum Card. The fee went from $699 to $799, with the increase taking effect towards the end of September 2023.

The annual fee for a supplementary card was also increased at the same time from $175 to $250 per card.

With the American Express Platinum Card already sitting among the most expensive cards in Canada, the fee increase naturally caused some furor in the Miles & Points community. Many in the community were left wondering if the card is still worth keeping or if it’s worth applying for in the first place.

We at Prince of Travel still believe that the Platinum Card is one of the best travel credit cards in Canada; however, we also recognize that each person has different wants, needs, and travel habits, so the card might not be suited for everyone.

To explore this further, let’s break down whether the Amex Platinum is still worth it in 2024.

Welcome Bonus

If you’re holding the American Express Platinum Card after the first year of card membership, feel free to skip this part of the article; however, if you’re currently contemplating whether or not to apply for the card, read on.

The American Express Platinum Card has always lured would-be cardholders with a strong welcome bonus.

Currently, the card offers the chance to earn a welcome bonus of 70,000 Membership Rewards (MR) points once you spend $10,000 in the first three months of card membership.

• Earn 70 ,000 MR points upon spending $10,000 in the first three months
• Plus, earn  30,000 MR points  upon making a purchase in months 14–17 as a cardholder
• Also, earn 2x MR points on all dining and travel purchases
• Also, receive an annual $200 travel credit
• Also, receive an annual  $200 dining credit
• Transfer MR points to Aeroplan and other frequent flyer programs for premium flights
• Unlimited airport lounge access for you and one guest at Priority Pass, Plaza Premium, Centurion, and other lounges
• Credits and rebates for daily expenses throughout the year with Amex Offers
• Bonus MR points for referring family and friends
• Annual fee: $799

At our current valuation, 70,000 Membership Rewards points are worth $1,540 (1 MR point = 2.2 cents), making signing up almost a no-brainer.

Additionally, you can potentially get an even higher value out of those points by transferring them to an airline partner.

By transferring your 70,000 points to a partnered airline loyalty program like Aeroplan, British Airways Executive Club, or Air France KLM Flying Blue, you could enjoy a redemption like one the following examples:

• A one-way flight in business class from anywhere in Canada to South America, or from the West Coast to Japan with Aeroplan
• A round-trip business class between the US East Coast and Madrid on Iberia with British Airways Executive Club
• A one-way business class from major cities in North America to anywhere in Europe with Air France KLM Flying Blue

However, do keep in mind that the welcome bonus comes with a rather steep minimum spend requirement of $10,000 in three months. For most households, this might be difficult, especially given that American Express isn’t accepted everywhere.

That said, this level of spend is doable if you have an impending large purchase, such as a renovation or a wedding. Alternatively, you could pay your rent with the card by using a service like Chexy (if your landlord is eligible), and this could make a big dent in the spending requirement.

As an additional bonus, you can earn another 30,000 points by holding the card into the second year and making a purchase between months 14 and 17 of card membership.

These additional 30,000 points are worth $660 according to our valuation, and this alone already covers three quarters of the annual fee for the second year!

In all, with the welcome bonus alone, the American Express Platinum Card is worth applying for and keeping for the second year

Recurring Credits

The American Express Platinum Card has three recurring credits, as follows:

• $200 annual travel credit
• $200 annual dining credit
• $100 NEXUS credit every four years

You’ll have access to these credits after you’ve been approved for the Platinum Card and as you renew it for subsequent years. Keep in mind, however, that these credits aren’t a carte blanche; they come with a laundry list of terms and conditions.

The $200 annual travel credit can only be used on travel booked with Amex’s in-house travel agency, but you’re free to use it on any travel product available on the website or over the phone, including flights.

The $200 annual dining credit is exclusively available to be used at a restaurant selected from a list curated by Amex based on Canada’s Top 100 Restaurants.

The notable downside to this restriction is that you’ll be hard-pressed to find an eligible restaurant if you live far from Canada’s bigger cities like Toronto and Vancouver.

The third recurring credit is pretty straightforward. You can use the NEXUS credit to offset the cost of NEXUS applications. However, you’ll want to keep in mind that the credit only recurs once every four years.

Now, if you can make use of the travel and dining credits every year, your “net cost” for the card will effectively go down to $399 without even taking into consideration the welcome bonus discussed above.

Amex Offers

Another feature of the American Express Platinum Card that may justify its fee is Amex Offers.

With Amex Offers, purchases with partner merchants are incentivized with statement credits, Membership Rewards points, or discounts. Many of these offers can result in substantial savings, sometimes in the hundreds of dollars.

Recent Amex Offers include statement credits with United Airlines, Air France/KLM, Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, Marriott Bonvoy-affiliated properties in Canada, and Fairmont hotels in Canada.

Some offers are exclusive to Platinum cardholders, but many targeted offers appear on the American Express card that you’re currently using most frequently, or on the only Amex card you have.

Thus, if you’re holding more than one Amex card, you might not necessarily get specific Amex Offers on your Platinum Card.

More importantly, Amex Offers are targeted based on your spending patterns, so they’re not the same across all cardholders, and you can’t count on them to consistently offset the cost of your Platinum Card.

Lounge Access

Airport lounge access is one of the most compelling features of the American Express Platinum Card since the card provides unlimited access for the cardholder plus one guest.

The lounge access provided by the Amex Platinum is available worldwide, mostly through the Priority Pass network, which offers 1,500+ lounges.

The cash cost of a single entry to a Priority Pass lounge is $35 per person per visit, so the value of unlimited access can add up.

As an American Express Platinum cardholder, you also get access to Amex’s own Centurion Lounges, which offer gourmet dining and handcrafted cocktails. Centurion Lounges are mostly available in the US, but they’re also available in cities like Sao Paulo and Hong Kong.

Lounge access might also justify supplementary cards for $250 a piece, since supplementary cardholders also get unlimited access to lounges for themselves plus their own guest.

However, unlimited lounge access is only great if you have ‌frequent use for it. For example, if you fly economy for work or you fly low-cost carriers as a digital nomad, you’ll find it truly beneficial.

Comparatively, if you fly business class a few times a year and have lounge access included with your ticket, then unlimited lounge access isn’t a compelling reason to hold the Platinum Card.

Automatic Hotel Status

With the American Express Platinum Card, you’ll receive two hotel statuses automatically: Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite and Hilton Honors Gold Elite.

After receiving the card, you can log into your Amex account and find the option to link your Marriott and Hilton accounts and upgrade your status immediately. You’ll retain these elite statuses as long as you hold the card.

Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite gives you potential upgrades and, more importantly, 2pm late check-out, while Hilton Honors Gold Elite gets you potential upgrades, plus a daily food and beverage credit or free continental breakfast, depending on the property.

Frankly, these statuses aren’t top-tier by any means; however, they’re still nice to have, especially if you can’t earn them by holding another credit card or with organic hotel stays.

Other Benefits

Aside from the major features discussed above, the American Express Platinum Card offers a bevy of other benefits.

Excellent Insurance Benefits

The American Express Platinum Card offers among the strongest credit card insurance benefits in the game.

As an American Express Platinum cardholder, you’ll enjoy the following protections:

• Emergency travel medical insurance of up to $5 million, covering you and your dependents for the first 15 days of your trip, regardless of whether or not you charged your trip to your Platinum Card
• Trip cancellation insurance of up to a maximum of $5,000, reimbursing you for the non-refundable travel charges you made, in case of unforeseen circumstances, such as an emergency medical condition, death in the family, and government advisories
• Flight delay insurance of up to $1,000, covering your accommodations and meals if your flight gets delayed by at least four hours
• Purchase protection coverage that covers accidental physical damage or theft, plus an extension to the manufacturer’s warranty for one year

Platinum Card Concierge

With the Platinum Card Concierge, you get help with restaurant reservations, buying event tickets, and other tasks, typically without extra cost to you.

You might find this service useful as you navigate a new city, or if you’re trying to score a coveted restaurant reservation.

Centurion New York Reservations

A less-publicized benefit of the Platinum Card is the ability to make reservations at Centurion New York, a fine-dining restaurant perched atop One Vanderbilt in Manhattan.

Menus are created by Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boloud, and the prices are reasonable by Manhattan standards.

This exclusive restaurant is only open to holders of the Platinum Card and the Centurion Card. You can call the Platinum Concierge to make a reservation.

Access to Hotel Collections

The American Express Platinum Card gives you access to two hotel collections:

• Fine Hotels + Resorts: Luxury properties that provide daily breakfast for two, guaranteed 4pm late check-out, 12pm early check-in, potential room upgrades, and $100 (USD) unique property credit (e.g., for the spa or restaurant) per stay.
• The Hotel Collection: Premium properties that give $100 (USD) experience credit (e.g., for the spa or restaurant), plus potential room upgrades.

The Fine Hotels + Resorts collection is exclusive to holders of the Platinum Card and the Centurion Card.

American Express Experiences and Amex Front of the Line

American Express Experiences provides exclusive access and benefits to some of the best entertainment and events.

Additionally, Amex Front of the Line gives access to presale tickets for some of the most in-demand concerts, theatre productions, and special events, often before the general public gets access.

So Is the Amex Platinum Still Worth It in 2024?

If you’re thinking of applying for the American Express Platinum Card, you definitely should as long as you can fulfill the minimum spend requirement for the welcome bonus. After all, the 70,000-point welcome bonus, worth $1,540 by our valuation, more than pays for the card.

You should also keep the card for the second year, since the second tranche of the welcome bonus (30,000 points worth $660) easily offsets more than three quarters of the cost of the card’s annual fee.

The question of whether you should keep the card for subsequent years past the first two is more complex.

If you can use the $200 annual travel credit and $200 annual dining credit, you’ll bring the “net cost” of the card down to $399.

Now, this remaining cost of $399 may be justified by the benefits provided by the Amex Platinum that we’ve discussed above.

Unfortunately, unlike the US-issued American Express Platinum Card, the Canadian Platinum Card doesn’t come with more recurring credits to bring down the net cost of the card further.

Additionally, the potentially lucrative Amex Offers aren’t guaranteed, and for many of the offers, they may show up with an Amex card other than the Platinum Card.

Thus, the thing that could justify holding the Platinum Card for many years is, in one word, access.

With the Platinum Card, you get access to airport lounges around the world, access to hotel status, and access to other exclusive benefits like the Platinum Card Concierge, Fine + Hotels Resorts, Centurion New York, and Amex Front of the Line.

If you value access – and the status symbol of holding the metal Platinum Card – then you should keep the card in your wallet year after year.

The American Express Platinum Card is now the most expensive publicly-available credit card in Canada, commanding a $799 annual fee.

The increase to the annual fee, which took effect in 2023, made many people wonder if the card was still worth applying for or keeping in subsequent years.

Hopefully, in breaking down the card’s benefits above, we’ve helped you make an informed decision on whether to apply for, keep, or cancel the American Express Platinum Card.

• Earn 80,000 MR points upon spending $15,000 in the first three months
• Plus, earn  40,000 MR points  upon making a purchase in months 14–17 as a cardholder
• And, earn 1.25x MR points on all purchases
• Also, receive a $200 annual travel credit
• Credits and rebates for business expenses throughout the year with Amex Offers
• Qualify for the card as a sole proprietor

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Our editorial team has spent well over a thousand hours analyzing, evaluating and comparing the top credit card offers in the market. We carefully vet each card’s fine print in order to understand their features, limitations and potential benefits for consumers. We review cards independently, ensuring our content is accurate and guided by editorial integrity. Read our full methodology to learn more.

• 46 travel credit cards evaluated
• 10+ data points used, including ongoing fees, reward programs and welcome offers
• 100+ sources reviewed

Money.com has partnered with CardRatings.com for our coverage of credit card products. Money and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. This site does not include all card companies or all available card offers. O ur top picks are listed strictly in alphabetical order.

Our Top Picks for Best Travel Credit Cards

Best no-annual-fee travel credit cards.

• Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card – Best no-annual-fee travel card for flat rate rewards
• Bilt Mastercard® – Best no-annual-fee travel card for paying rent
• Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card – Best no-annual-fee card for travel partners
• Chase Freedom Unlimited® – Best no-annual-fee travel card for domestic travel
• Discover it® Miles – Best no-annual-fee travel card for simple rewards
• Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card – Best no-annual-fee travel card for everyday spending

Best low-fee-annual-fee travel credit cards

• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card – Best travel card for flat-rate rewards
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card – Best travel card for flexible rewards

Best premium travel credit cards

• American Express® Gold Card – Best travel card for dining
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card – Best low-cost premium travel card
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® – Best premium travel credit card
• The Platinum Card® from American Express – Best travel card for lounge access

Best business travel credit cards

• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express – Best business travel card

Best airline travel credit cards

• United℠ Explorer Card: Best airline credit card

Best Travel Credit Cards Reviews

Our top picks are listed in alphabetical order.

Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards

• No annual fee
• No foreign transaction fees
• Earns 1.5x points on all purchases
• No bonus category for travel
• Few benefits compared to other cards
• Limited redemption options

Why we chose it: The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card is an easy-to-use card best suited for travel reward beginners or those who are already Bank of America customers.

Some cardholders can earn up to 75% more points if they are Bank of America Preferred Rewards members — that’s up to 2.62 points for every dollar spent.

However, the card doesn’t offer hotel and airline point transfer partners, travel insurance or extended warranty and purchase protection. Additionally, you can only redeem your points as statement credit to cover travel and dining purchases.

All information about Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by Money.com

• No annual or foreign currency conversion fee (Click herehttps://www.wellsfargo.com/credit-cards/bilt/terms/">here; for rates and fees)
• Use it to pay your rent and earn rewards without incurring any processing fees
• You can earn double points on all purchase categories (except rent payments) on the first of every month (up to 10,000 points)
• Earn 2x points on travel (when booked directly through an airline, hotels, car rental agencies and cruise lines)
• No welcome bonus or introductory APR period
• Points redeemed for statement credits are worth 0.55 cents each
• You must make at least five transactions in a statement period to earn points
• Rent payments can only be made to one rental property per month

Why we chose it: The Bilt Mastercard® lets you earn travel rewards on rent payments without incurring any processing fees — unlike most credit cards that typically charge around 2.5% to 2.9% per rent payment.

You can use the card to pay rent without worrying about surcharges. Once you get approved for the card, all you have to do is set up an account through the Bilt app or website and use your assigned routing and account number to pay rent through your usual payment portal. You can also use your card even if your landlord only accepts checks, and Bilt will send a check on your behalf.

Additionally, Bilt doubles the card’s rewards rates on the first of every month, which means you can earn 6x points on dining, 4x points on travel and 2x points on other purchases (up to 10,000 points per month). However, this bonus doesn’t apply to rent rewards.

On the downside, the Bilt Mastercard® doesn’t offer a welcome bonus, and points redeemed for statement credits are only worth 0.55 cents each.

• Can transfer your miles to 16 travel partners
• Earns 5x miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Doesn't earn bonus points on airfare
• No domestic travel partners

Why we chose it: The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is a great option if you’re looking for a no-annual fee travel credit card with a simple rewards structure.

You can use your miles to book travel through the Capital One Travel portal or as a statement credit to cover travel purchases made from airlines, hotels, rail lines, car rental agencies and more.

You can also transfer your points to one of Capital One’s 16 travel partners, which include international airlines such as Avianca and British Airways. This option is notable since travel credit cards with no annual fee don’t typically offer the option to transfer your reward to airline and hotel partners.

However, the card’s list of bonus categories is limited compared to some other no-annual-fee credit cards, and Capital One doesn’t offer bonus points on airfare booked through Capital One Travel.

• Includes trip cancellation/interruption and car rental insurance
• Features a high flat cash back rate combined and popular bonus categories
• 3% foreign transaction fee

Why we chose it: The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is the best credit card for traveling domestically. It offers a 1.5% flat cash back rate on most purchases plus it has several appealing bonus categories, including travel and dining.

This card charges a 3% foreign transaction fee, that is, on any transactions made in currency other than US dollars. However, if you mostly travel within the U.S., this card is an excellent option.

For one, you’ll earn an additional 1.5% on each of the card’s bonus categories during the first year of card membership (or up to the first $20,000 spent).

Also, although using this card abroad is not recommended, you can still use it to book international trips while you’re home, and you’ll earn 5% cash back if you book it through Chase Travel℠.

You can redeem your rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and even transfer them to other cards that earn Chase Ultimate Rewards® points. It’s also worth noting that this card is one of the few no-annual-fee credit cards with rental car coverage and trip cancellation and interruption insurance.

• No annual or foreign transaction fees
• Discover matches the total miles you earned at the end of the first year
• Earns 1.5x miles on all purchases
• See your FICO score on the Discover mobile app, online and on statements
• Few benefits compared to other travel cards
• Doesn't include extended warranty or purchase protection

Why we chose it: The Discover it® Miles Credit Card is a no-frills card ideal for travelers who don’t want to keep track of bonus categories, earning caps or redemption values.

The card earns a flat 1.5x miles on all eligible purchases without any annual caps. You can redeem your miles for statement credits and account deposits at a rate of 1 cent per mile. You can also use your rewards through Amazon and PayPal checkout with the same value.

Also, the card’s welcome bonus is easily one of the best in the market: Discover matches every mile you’ve earned at the end of your first membership year — without any spending requirements.

However, while the Discover it® Miles Credit Card is a great starter travel card, its lack of bonus categories could hinder your reward-earning potential in the long run. Additionally, Discover cards aren’t as widely accepted internationally as Visa Signature and World Mastercard, for example.

All information about the Discover it® Miles Credit Card has been collected independently by Money.com.

• Earn 3x points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, select streaming services and cell phone plans
• Includes cell phone protection plan
• No airline or hotel transfer partners
• Doesn't include travel insurance
• Netflix and HBO are not eligible for streaming bonus

Why we chose it: The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card is the best travel reward card for everyday spending, offering high rewards on several popular spending categories, including travel, dining, gas, streaming services and cell phone plans.

Its travel bonus category is particularly noteworthy because you can earn points regardless of where you make your reservations, whether it’s directly with an airline or through a third-party travel site like Booking.com. (Most travel credit cards limit travel rewards to bookings made exclusively through the card issuer’s travel portal.)

The card also includes rental car insurance and a cell phone protection plan when you use it to pay your monthly bill.

All information about the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card has been collected independently by Money.com.

Best Low-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards

• Earn 2x miles per dollar on most purchases
• Up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck(R)
• Includes travel accident and car rental insurance
• Fewer bonus categories than other cards with a similar annual fee ($95)
• Doesn't offer travel rewards for flights
• Car rental insurance is secondary

Why we chose it: The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is the best credit card for travel miles if you want to earn a high reward rate and not worry about bonus categories.

The Capital One Venture Rewards is ideal for those who want to get the most out of their spending without worrying about tracking bonus categories and spending caps.

You can redeem your miles on the Capital One travel portal and as statement credits to cover travel purchases at a value of one cent per mile. Additionally, you may transfer your miles to more than 15 airline and hotel partners.

However, keep in mind that Capital One doesn’t have domestic travel partners, which can be a drawback if you mainly travel within the U.S.

• Points are worth 25% more when redeemed for travel purchases through Chase TravelSM
• Receive a point bonus each account anniversary
• Includes primary rental car insurance
• Earn 3x per $1 on dining, including eligible delivery and takeout meals, select streaming services and grocery purchases
• $95 annual fee
• Doesn't offer a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck(R) application fee credit

Why we chose this card: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is the best travel credit card for frequent travelers who want to earn valuable rewards while paying a low annual fee.

The card features six reward categories that offer outstanding rewards on flights, hotels, restaurants and more. You can redeem your points for statement credits, account deposits, gift cards and more. But you can get the most bang for your buck by redeeming them for travel purchases through the Chase Travel℠ portal, which increases your point’s usual one-cent value by 25%.

You can redeem your points for statement credits, account deposits, gift cards and more. But you can get the most bang for your buck by redeeming them for travel purchases through Chase Travel℠, which increases your point’s usual one-cent value by 25%.

You can also transfer your points to one of Chase’s 14 travel partners at a 1:1 ratio (one Chase point equals one hotel point or airline mile). These include popular airlines and hotels like JetBlue, Southwest, United, Marriott and Hyatt.

Best Premium Travel Credit Cards

• Earns 4x points on restaurants worldwide, takeout and food delivery within the U.S.
• Up to $120 in annual dining credits, issued as a $10 statement credit per month for select restaurants (enrollment required)
• Up to $120 as Uber Cash annually ($10 per month) for food delivery orders and rides in the U.S. after you add the American Express(R) Gold Card to your Uber account
• Earn 4x points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1x)
• High annual fee ($250)
• Includes few travel perks and insurance policies compared to similarly priced cards

Terms apply. Please click here for applicable rates and fees.

Why we chose it: The American Express® Gold Card is ideal for foodies, offering a high reward rate at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets, takeout and food delivery. (Terms apply.)

The American Express® Gold Card also offers statement credits worth up to $240 combined — almost enough to offset the card’s $250 annual fee. These include:

• Up to $120 every year in dining credits ($10 per month) for select restaurants and food delivery services. The list includes Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and Shake Shack (Enrollment required)
• Automatically get $10 monthly in Uber Cash to use on Uber Eats or Uber rides in the U.S. (after you add the American Express® Gold Card to your account)
• $100 credit for dining, spa services and other activities when you book a two-night minimum stay at a hotel from The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel
• Terms apply

However, note that the American Express® Gold Card offers fewer travel perks than some other premium cards — for instance, it doesn’t offer trip cancellation and interruption insurance or TSA PreCheck® or CLEAR® Plus fee credits.

• 10,000 bonus miles every year
• Statement credit of up to $300 for bookings made through Capital One Travel
• Up to a $100 credit on Global Entry or TSA PreCheck(R)
• Skip the line and get car upgrades when renting a car with Hertz
• High annual fee ($395)
• Fewer bonus categories than other premium cards
• No domestic airline transfer partners

Why we chose it: The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the best credit card for travel miles if you want to earn a high reward rate and not worry about bonus categories.

The Capital One Venture X also includes noteworthy perks such as:

• 10,000 bonus miles every year (starting on your first anniversary)
• $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel
• Up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges worldwide with Priority Pass™ Select and Plaza Premium Group
• Authorized users at no extra cost (many cards have an annual fee of $75 or more for each additional user)

All in all, the Venture X is a solid option that can easily compete with other premium travel cards, especially considering its more affordable annual fee.

• Up to $300 in statement credits each anniversary year to cover travel purchases
• Transfer your points to 14 travel partners (including United, Southwest, JetBlue and Marriott)
• Points worth 50% more when redeemed for travel expenses through Chase TravelSM
• Comprehensive travel insurance coverage, including emergency dental insurance
• High annual fee ($550)
• Doesn't include a cell phone protection plan

Why we chose it: The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is the best credit card for travelers looking for a high reward rate on travel and additional benefits like comprehensive travel insurance and airport lounge access worldwide.

Your points are worth 50% more when you redeem them for travel through the Chase Travel℠ portal. This means each point is worth 1.5 cents per point instead of one cent, like most travel cards. Also, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® provides several high-end benefits such as:

• $300 annual travel credit to cover travel-related purchases like airfare, hotels, car rentals, rideshares, buses, trains, tolls and/or parking
• Access for you and two guests to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide (after a one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select)
• Statement credit of up to $100 every four years for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or Nexus

The Sapphire Reserve does have a $550 annual fee. But if you take advantage of the $300 annual credit and other perks, the benefits can definitely outweigh its cost.

• Access to the widest network of airport lounges of any card
• Complimentary elite status in the Marriott and Hilton hotel loyalty programs
• Hundreds of dollars in annual statement credits for travel, dining and more
• High annual fee ($695)
• Doesn't include baggage delay, travel accident and primary rental car insurance
• Limited bonus categories

Terms apply. Click here for rates and fees.

Why we chose this card: The Platinum Card® from American Express offers a list of premium benefits that no other travel card offers, including the widest network of airport lounges and room upgrades at Hilton and Marriott hotels. (Terms apply.)

The Platinum Card® from American Express features an impressive list of high-end travel benefits, including:

• Complimentary access to over 1,400 airport lounges, including Priority Pass, Delta SkyClub and Amex’s own Centurion lounges (enrollment required)
• Gold status in the Marriott and Hilton loyalty programs, which makes you eligible for room upgrades, free breakfast and late checkouts (enrollment required)
• $200 back each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings made through American Express Travel and paid with your Platinum Card® (Hotel Collection bookings require a minimum two-night stay)
• Up to $200 per year when incidental fees, such as checked bags, are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card® (with one selected qualifying airline)
• Complimentary premium status in Avis Preferred®, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards®, and/or National Car Rental® Emerald Club (must enroll through your Amex online account using your card)

The Platinum Card® from American Express does have a hefty $695 annual fee. However, for people who travel often and will take advantage of its annual credits and travel perks, it might almost pay for itself.

Best Business Travel Credit Cards

• 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels booked through AmexTravel.com
• Around $1,000 in yearly statement credits for select business purchases
• Access to a wide network of airport lounges (terms apply)
• Around $600 in perks in Fine Hotels + Resorts(R) locations booked through American Express Travel (for stays of two nights)
• Secondary rental car coverage**

Why we chose it: The Business Platinum Card® from American Express features an extensive list of benefits that make it an ideal travel and business credit card.

With this card, you can access over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide, comprehensive travel insurance and extra amenities at hundreds of hotels, like daily breakfast and free internet access. Additionally, you get a $200 credit to cover baggage fees, in-flight refreshments and more and up to $100 for Global Entry or $85 for TSA PreCheck® every four or 4.5 years respectively. (Terms apply.) (Enrollment required.)

The card also offers several yearly statement credits for business-related purchases that include up to $400 per year ($200 between January and June and $200 between July and December) for U.S. purchases with Dell.

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express does have one of the steepest annual fees ($695) among travel credit cards, but its extensive list of benefits makes it a no-brainer for business owners who travel frequently.

Best Airline Travel Credit Cards

• Free first checked bag for you and a companion
• Up to $100 as a statement credit for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck(R) or NEXUS every 4 year
• 25% back as a statement credit on food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights
• Complimentary priority boarding for you and companions traveling on the same reservation
• $95 annual fee (after the first year)
• No intro APR period
• Rewards are only valuable when used with United

Why we chose it: The card_name has a low annual fee and gives you valuable benefits that make up for it, such as priority boarding for everyone on the reservation and a free checked bag for you and one companion.

Other perks the card includes are:

• Two one-time passes for United Club℠ airport lounges each account anniversary year
• 25% back as a statement credit on in-flight purchases like food, beverages and Wi-Fi
• Up to $100 every four years to cover the cost of TSA PreCheck®, Global Entry or NEXUS
• Comprehensive travel insurance (auto rental collision damage waiver, baggage delay insurance, lost luggage reimbursement, trip cancellation/interruption insurance and trip delay reimbursement)

The United℠ Explorer Card earns miles on United purchases, including tickets, inflight food, beverages, Wi-Fi and more. You also earn rewards at restaurants and select hotel stays.

You can use your miles to book flights on United Airlines or its partners, including Avianca, Lufthansa and Air Canada. You can also redeem them for seat upgrades, inflight Wi-Fi passes and more — although United miles are usually more valuable when used for airfare.

Travel Credit Cards Guide

The best credit cards for travel do more than offer high reward rates on flights and hotel stays. They also provide rewards for everyday spending and perks such as travel insurance , airport lounge access and annual statement credits.

Here’s a rundown of how these cards work:

What is a travel credit card?

Travel credit cards offer benefits and rewards geared towards individuals who travel frequently or want to earn travel benefits.

They provide high rewards for travel-related expenses such as flights, hotels, rental cars and dining. You can then use these rewards (in the form of points or miles) to book travel reservations. Some cards also let you transfer your rewards to hotel and airline partners or redeem them for statement credits, cash back, gift cards and more.

On top of the rewards, these cards often feature several travel-related perks, such as no foreign transaction fees, hotel discounts, travel insurance, free checked bags and airport lounge access.

How do travel credit cards work?

Travel credit cards give you a certain number of points or miles per dollar on eligible purchases. They often offer around 5x points or more for airfare, hotel rooms, rental cars and more. Some cards may also count parking, bus fares, taxis, tolls and ferries as travel purchases.

Besides travel, you’ll typically get bonus points in additional spending categories. For example, some cards may offer 3x points per dollar on dining, groceries, drugstores or streaming services. All other eligible purchases usually get at least one point (1x) per dollar.

You can then redeem your points for flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises and more. Card issuers also usually let you redeem your points for non-travel options like statement credits, cash back or gift cards.

How to use credit card points for travel

Travel credit cards have rewards programs through which you can earn points (or miles). Well-known point programs include Chase Ultimate Rewards®, American Express Membership Rewards® and Citi ThankYou® Rewards.

To redeem your points, go to your travel card’s rewards program portal. The process may differ across credit card issuers, but you’ll usually be able to access it through your online account on the issuer’s website or app.

Points are usually worth one cent each. However, some issuers increase their value if you redeem them for travel. For example, Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card points are worth 1.25 cents when used to book flights through the Chase Travel℠ portal.

Points may also be worth less than a cent, depending on how you redeem them. For example, some cards allow you to use your points at Amazon checkout. While this might sound convenient, this option may bring down the value of points to around 0.8 cents.

Some cards also allow you to transfer your rewards to select airline and hotel partners. Typically, you can transfer rewards to these loyalty programs on a 1:1 ratio, meaning that 1,000 credit card points are worth 1,000 loyalty program points.

Difference between points and miles

You’ll earn points or miles depending on which travel credit card you have. For example, Chase travel credit cards earn points, while Capital One travel cards earn miles. Miles and points typically have similar value (around one cent each) and redemption options.

However, keep in mind that several cards that earn miles are tied to a specific airline — like the United℠ Explorer Card. In this case, you can only use your rewards for purchases with the issuing airline such as flights, seat upgrades, inflight dining and more.

Pros and cons of travel credit cards

• Some cards offer up to 10x points per dollar on travel purchases.
• Many have additional bonus categories for dining, grocery shopping and more.
• They may include travel benefits like priority boarding, airport lounge access and late hotel checkouts.
• Points or miles can also be redeemed for cash back, statement credits, gift cards and more.
• Highest reward rates are usually limited to purchases made through the card issuer's travel portal.
• They might not offer high rewards on spending outside of the travel category.
• Some of the best ones can have steep annual fees and require good to excellent credit
• Redeeming points or miles for anything other than travel can reduce their value to less than one cent per dollar.

Types of travel credit cards

Here’s a rundown of the differences between the three main types of travel credit cards:

Airline credit cards

Airline credit cards are ideal for people who regularly fly with the same airline. These cards earn miles you can redeem for flights, seat upgrades, inflight dining, airport lounge access and other travel-related purchases but typically only with the issuing airline.

Some of the best airline travel credit cards include benefits like free checked bags, priority boarding and discounts on in-flight purchases.

Hotel credit cards

With hotel credit cards, you can only redeem your points for stays, discounts and other benefits with one particular hotel chain.

For example, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card earns points for Hilton’s loyalty program, which you can redeem for free nights in the company’s properties, including Hilton Garden Inn and Waldorf Astoria hotels.

Hotel credit cards may also offer complimentary breakfast, room upgrades, late checkouts and bonus points for purchases made during your stay.

General travel credit card

General travel credit cards are more flexible than airline or hotel cards. They aren’t affiliated with a single airline or hotel chain, so their points can be used to book flights, hotel stays, rental cars and more from different companies.

These cards may also offer useful perks for frequent travelers, like airport lounge access. They can also cover the cost of a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® membership, which allows you to skip the long lines at airport security or customs.

How to choose a travel credit card

Picking the best travel rewards credit card boils down to how often you travel, which cardmember perks you’d benefit the most from and the categories you spend the most on.

Here are some factors to keep in mind when choosing the best card for you:

• Do you travel often? A travel rewards credit card offers high reward rates on travel spending, and you’ll get the most bang for your buck when you use their points on flights, hotels and car rentals. If you don’t take trips often but want to pile up rewards, a cash-back credit card might be a better fit.
• Assess your everyday spending. Many travel cards have additional bonus categories other than travel, like dining, supermarkets, streaming services and drugstores. Consider your day-to-day spending habits and pick a card with bonus categories that fit your lifestyle.
• Consider the card’s annual fees. No-annual-fee travel cards usually have few travel benefits. The best travel credit cards charge annual fees of at least $90 and can go as high as $700. However, these are often best for those that travel enough to take advantage of their benefits.
• General travel card vs co-branded cards. General travel cards have more flexible redemption options. On the other hand, co-branded cards are often tied to a specific airline or hotel, which can limit your options. Still, they do provide valuable perks like free checked bags, in-flight discounts and hotel upgrades.
• Compare extra travel perks. Some cards offer extras like annual statement credits for flights and hotels or upgrades when renting cars. Take the time to compare each card’s roster of add-ons and pick one that will best suit your travel plans.
• Compare insurance policies. The best credit card travel benefits include insurance policies that cover travel accidents, rental cars, trip cancellations and more. These policies can vary widely based on the issuer and the card’s annual-fee tier.
• Beware foreign transaction fees. Most travel credit cards don’t charge foreign transaction fees. Some cash-back cards may offer outstanding rewards for travel purchases but charge around 3% fees on purchases outside the U.S.
• Look beyond welcome offers. A 60,000-point welcome bonus can be enticing. However, it shouldn’t be your deciding factor, especially if you’ll end up paying a high annual fee without getting your money’s worth.

How get the most out of your travel credit card

To get the most out of your travel credit card, you need to use it as often and strategically as possible. This way, you can earn points or miles with each purchase, which you can then redeem for free or discounted flights, hotels and more.

Use your travel card to pay most of your purchases and bills and then pay your card off in full each month. This will help you earn points while avoiding interest charges and high credit card debt , which can impact your credit score.

Here are some other tips to maximize your rewards and benefits:

• Consider adding an authorized user to your account. They’ll earn points with every purchase they make, and those will get added to your overall total. However, make sure to pick someone who will use the card responsibly since you’ll be legally liable if they ever fail to pay their monthly bills.
• Redeem your rewards for travel through the card issuer’s website. This redemption option usually offers the highest value compared to gift cards or merchandise, for example.
• If your card offers travel protections (like travel accident or luggage insurance), use it to pay for your passenger fares. This way, you could be reimbursed in the event of an accident or lost luggage, for example.
• Use your airline or hotel card to sign up for the company’s frequent flyer or frequent guest loyalty program. You’ll often earn extra points or miles when you’re a member and use your co-branded card to pay for flights, hotel stays and more.
• If you can transfer points from other credit cards to your travel card, take advantage of this feature. This way, you can accumulate extra points for travel booking and sometimes even increase their value.

Best Travel Credit Cards FAQs

What is the best travel credit card, what is the best credit card for international travel, how to travel for free with credit cards, what is the best credit card for travel miles, what is a welcome bonus on a credit card, how we chose the best travel credit cards.

We ranked the best credit cards for travel based on their annual fees, benefits, reward rates and redemption flexibility.

Fees: We compared interest rates and foreign, cash advance and balance transfer fees for more than 50 credit cards. We also considered their annual fee, looking for those that offered the most for the money.

Ongoing benefits: Intro APR and bonus offers are attractive, but they can only get you so far. We focused on cards with year-round benefits such as travel insurance or cell phone protection plans.

Reward rates: We preferred cards that allow you to earn extra points from travel expenses, as well as those that provide significant bonus rewards in popular spending categories, like dining, supermarkets or streaming services.

Redemption flexibility: Our picks don’t limit your redemption options to just travel. Some let you use your points for Amazon purchases, for example. We also preferred issuers that allowed cardholders to transfer their points to airline and hotel partners.

Summary of Money’s Best Travel Credit Cards of May 2024

• Discover it® Miles Credit Card – Best no-annual-fee travel card for simple rewards

Money.com has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Money.com and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

To see rates and fees for the American Express® Gold Card, visit this link . Terms apply.

To see rates and fees for The Platinum Card® from American Express, visit this link . Terms apply.

To see rates and fees for The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, visit this link . Terms apply.

* Insurance disclosures for American Express Cards on this page:

Trip Delay Insurance: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Baggage Insurance Plan: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

Global Assist Hotline: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Card Members are responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers.

Extended Warranty, Purchase Protection, Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

Car Rental Loss & Damage Insurance: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

** Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

*** Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $50,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

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How to Get a Hotel Room Upgrade? 

Imagine getting an upgrade to a room which has the best view, better facilities and is a bit bigger than the standard room that you booked. Here are some tips on how to get a hotel room upgrade. 

Tips on How to Get a Hotel Room Upgrade

Although getting a room upgrade isn’t guaranteed, sometimes all you have to do is ask. Planning and using the right credit card can improve your chances of getting a hotel room upgraded. Here are some tips for landing you the desired hotel room upgrade. 

1. Register for the hotel’s loyalty program

Hotels love their loyal customers, and they have exclusive rewards for them. You can enrol into a hotel’s loyalty program and enjoy benefits and privileges, which can make your stay more rewarding. Premium Cards like the American Express® Platinum Card gives you complimentary access to higher tiers of hotel loyalty programs.

2. Book using your Credit Card

In addition to loyalty programs, you can get complimentary access to luxury hotel programs using your travel rewards and premium cards. The American Express Platinum Cardmembers are eligible for an upgrade (subject to availability) across luxury hotels and resorts worldwide. It is a good idea to find out more about the offers your card holds and use it to make the booking. 

3. Book directly through hotel website 

Even though booking hotels online through a third party might seem more cost-effective, it can hinder your chances of getting an upgrade. You may not have access to many member benefits like the hotel’s reward points. These points add up with each stay and earn you complimentary stay or an upgrade. 

4. Just ask 

The front desk has information such as which rooms are most spacious, which have the best view or, which are the least noisy. You can consider asking the concierge politely for any available upgrades while checking in. You can also send an email to the hotel reservation desk ahead of your travel, asking them for an upgrade. More often than not, hotels oblige you when you ask.

5. Be specific in your requirements 

Every time you book a hotel online, you have the option of making special requests for your stay. Filling in this information can increase your chances of getting an upgrade. Write something specific such as ‘room with a good view’ or ‘room with bigger space.’ Some hotels are willing to go the extra mile to honour your requirements. 

6. Mention the occasion

If it’s your special day such as a birthday or anniversary, make sure to let the front desk know as hotels want to keep you happy. There are high chances of the staff offering you a complimentary upgrade on your room to help you celebrate the occasion. Even if they are unable to do so, they might surprise you by providing some additional perks in your room like drinks or flowers to enhance your overall experience. 

7. Choose a recently opened hotel 

Check into a newly opened hotel next time as they are more likely to give you an upgrade. They have more vacant rooms and want to impress the customers with their amenities and boost their reviews.

What to do if there is no upgrade available?

Getting an upgrade on hotel rooms isn’t always a sure thing, and you may find yourself without one at times. 

You can secure a confirmed upgrade by paying for it. If the desired room type is available, then you can upgrade by paying the difference in cost. 

Why do Hotels provide Upgrades?

While you may feel lucky when you get an upgrade, it is normal to be intrigued as to why a hotel would upgrade your room without any additional cost most of the time. Hotels do it for various reasons:

• They want to upgrade their loyal guests. Hotel loyalty programs give a certain number of upgrades in a year to its customers enrolled in the hotel’s loyalty program. However, they do it only if they have rooms to spare.
• Like airlines, hotels also overbook their rooms sometimes. If there are no cancellations, then they have no choice but to upgrade you to whatever room is available. 
• Sometimes  hotels, especially luxury hotels, go to great lengths to ensure that their guests have a comfortable stay. They even empower their staff so that they can make decisions to make the guests stay as comfortable as possible.
• Hotels can extend special discounts and upgrades to a particular company or travel booking site because of the business they bring. 

American Express Cards That Offer Hotel Upgrades

Your Credit Card can open doors to exclusive discounts, privileges, and hotel upgrades. The American Express Platinum Card and American Express Platinum Reserve Credit Card offer you room upgrades whenever available, across member hotels globally. 

American Express Platinum Card 

• As an Amex Platinum cardholder, you get to enjoy competitive rates and complimentary benefits across 1000+  Fine Hotels & Resorts  and 600+  Hotel Collection  across the world when you make reservations through Platinum Travel Service or American Express Travel Online.  
• You are also fast-tracked to top tiers of loyalty programs of premium hotels such as Marriott Bonvoy™- Gold Elite, Radisson Rewards - Premium Status, Hilton Honors - Gold Status, Taj Epicure - Reimagined  Status across the world without fulfilling their qualifying criteria for those tiers. Top tier loyalty membership helps you enjoy upgrades and earn reward nights besides other complimentary benefits. 

American Express Platinum Reserve Credit Card

• With your American Express Platinum Reserve Credit Card , you get to enjoy  iPrefer Elite Tier  membership. You get instant benefits like a room upgrade and points, which are redeemable for a free night, across more than 700 hotels globally.

Hotel upgrades can be delightful and you can better your odds of getting an upgraded room by carrying the right Card.

Terms and conditions apply, to know more please visit here

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How To Earn Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite Status (And Is It Worth It?)

Ashley Onadele

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Table of Contents

How do you get platinum elite status with marriott bonvoy, the 14 benefits of marriott bonvoy platinum elite status, marriott bonvoy platinum elite vs. marriott bonvoy gold elite, is marriott bonvoy platinum elite status worth it, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

With more than 30 hotel brands and thousands of hotels across 139 countries, Marriott International is one of the world’s largest hotel chains. Marriott Bonvoy, the brand’s loyalty program, has almost 200 million members, making it the largest hotel loyalty program, too.

It’s easy to find a Marriott hotel in many of the cities and countries you plan to visit. For this reason, it might be worth it to have Marriott Bonvoy Elite status to take advantage of the perks that make your stay more comfortable.

For most, earning the program’s top status of Titanium Elite isn’t attainable unless you travel frequently for work. Luckily, just 1 tier down is Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, which has many valuable perk — and you can earn it simply by holding the right credit card.

Here’s all there is to know about Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status and if it’s worth it.

Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status is earned after staying 50 qualifying nights in a calendar year at Marriott properties or by holding the hotel’s premium credit card offered by American Express.

Earning Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite Status With Credit Cards

Marriott Bonvoy offers 5 personal credit cards and 1 business card through Chase and American Express. Holding a Marriott Bonvoy credit card offers many travel-related perks, including Elite Night Credits that get you closer to elite status and bonus points when you use your card at Marriott properties.

Complimentary Platinum Elite Status

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ® American Express ® Card is Marriott Bonvoy’s premium credit card and comes with the perks to match. With a $650 annual fee ( rates & fees ), the card comes with the following benefits:

• Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status
• Up to $300 annual dining credit at restaurants around the world (up to $25 per month)
• $100 property credit when you book direct with a special rate for a 2-night minimum stay at The Ritz-Carlton or St. Regis brand hotels with the card
• 1 Free Night Award worth 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points
• 25 Elite Night Credits

A premium card for Marriott fans who want perks like an annual statement credit and Free Night Award, plus a fast track to Marriott elite status.

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with  no credit score impact.

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ® American Express ® Card  is a premium card designed with road warriors and Marriott Bonvoy loyalists in mind.

So is the card a worthwhile addition to your wallet?

• 6x points per $1 at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy   program
• 3x points per $1 on flights booked directly with airlines and restaurants worldwide
• 2x points per $1 on all other purchases
• Steep annual fee of $650 ( rates and fees )
• 6x points per $1 is the same earn rate offered with lower annual fee alternatives like the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express ® Card
• Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ® American Express ® Card at restaurants worldwide.
• With Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, you can receive room upgrades, including enhanced views or suites, when available at select properties and booked with a Qualifying Rate.
• Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy ® . 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines. 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
• Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy ® . Certain hotels have resort fees.
• Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ® American Express ® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
• $100 Marriott Bonvoy Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton ® or St. Regis ® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
• Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck ® : Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($100) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck ® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ® American Express ® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
• Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ® American Express ® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy ® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express. Terms apply.
• Enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, which offers unlimited airport lounge visits to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks, and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
• With Cell Phone Protection, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month's wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
• $650 Annual Fee.
• Terms Apply.
• APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees:  None

Marriott Bonvoy

There’s 1 caveat to earning Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status through this card: You still need to have 50 Elite Night Credits to choose an Annual Choice Benefit . If you hold the card, you’ll earn 25 Elite Night Credits. You could earn 40 total Elite Night Credits if you hold the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card along with the Marriott Bonvoy Business ® American Express ® Card .

Earn Elite Night Credits Toward Platinum Elite Status

Other Marriott Bonvoy credit cards can help you earn Platinum Elite status. The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express ® Card , Marriott Bonvoy Bold ® Credit Card , Marriott Bonvoy Boundless ® Credit Card , and Marriott Bonvoy Business card each come with 15 Elite Night Credits. The discontinued Marriott Bonvoy™ Premier Credit Card from Chase also gives cardholders 15 Elite Night Credits.

When you hold 1 of the abovementioned personal cards and the Marriott Bonvoy Business card, you can earn 30 Elite Night Credits toward the 50 nights needed to earn Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status. However, you can only receive the Elite Night Credits from a personal card once, so even if you hold several personal cards, you cannot combine those personal credits.

You can earn Elite Night Credits to help in your journey to Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status with a combination of credit cards. Or you can get automatic Platinum Elite status outright by holding the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card.

Earning Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite Status With Stays

You can also earn Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status the old-fashioned way by staying 50 qualifying nights at Marriott Bonvoy-participating properties with qualifying rates .

An example of a rate that does not qualify to earn nights includes those booked through a tour operator, third-party booking tool, or a group rate. An individual Marriott Bonvoy member will only earn nights for a room that they book and stay in and not any additional rooms that they may have booked under their loyalty number. Award nights count toward qualifying nights .

Throughout the year, Marriott Bonvoy offers promotions for members to earn bonus nights on their hotel stay , effectively getting them to elite status faster. Each promotion has specific requirements to meet to earn a bonus.

1. 50% Bonus Points on Stays

Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status holders earn 50% more points on eligible hotel purchases, including room rates, dining, and at the spa. This is in addition to whatever bonus earnings you get from holding any particular Marriott Bonvoy credit card.

2. Enhanced Room Upgrade

Room upgrades are available to Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status holders. Upgrades depend on the hotel and availability, but in some cases, they include select suites .

3. Welcome Gift Choice

The welcome gift choice at check-in varies by brand but includes bonus points, complimentary breakfast, or food and beverage credit when breakfast is not offered.

These welcome gifts are not offered at every Marriott property . For example, complimentary breakfast for Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elites is not offered at The Ritz-Carlton, Design Hotels, EDITION, Marriott Grand Residence Club, or Marriott Vacation Club.

4. Annual Choice Benefit for Members with 50 Elite Night Credits

Each year that you earn 50 Elite Night Credits, you’ll get to choose 1 of the following Annual Choice Benefits:

• 5 Nightly Upgrade Awards
• $1,000 off of a bed from your favorite Marriott brand
• Gift Silver Elite status to a family member or friend
• $100 charity donation
• 5 Elite Night Credits

One of the most valuable Annual Choice Benefits is the 5 Nightly Upgrade Awards . These awards can be requested for either paid or redeemed nights and clear up to 3 days before check-in .

Whether or not you can use them will depend on the individual property, but you can redeem them at almost every brand, including The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis hotels.

Remember that even if you hold the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, you’ll still need to stay 50 nights in order to choose an Annual Choice Benefit. If you do not choose an Annual Choice Benefit by January 7 of the following year, you will automatically be given 5 Nightly Upgrade Awards.

5. Lounge Access

When staying at any participating hotel brand that has lounges, Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elites get complimentary access to the lounge as well as breakfast and other amenities served there.

The following brands (not necessarily each hotel property) offer Club Lounges:

• Autograph Collection
• Courtyard (outside of the U.S. and Canada)
• Delta Hotels
• JW Marriott
• Le Méridien
• Marriott Hotels
• Renaissance Hotels

Elite status holders do not receive complimentary access to The Ritz-Carlton lounges.

6. Late Checkout

Late checkout at 4 p.m. is guaranteed at most Marriott properties for Platinum Elites. This benefit is subject to availability at resort and convention hotels.

7. Free In-Room Wi-Fi

Non-Marriott Bonvoy members only receive complimentary Wi-Fi in the hotel’s public areas. As a Marriott Bonvoy member and Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite, you’ll get complimentary Wi-Fi in your guest room as well.

8. Ultimate Reservation Guarantee

If Marriott cannot honor your hotel reservation for any reason, it guarantees to pay for you to stay at a nearby hotel and compensate you for the inconvenience.

9. Exclusive Member Rates

Exclusive member rates are available when booking directly, either through marriott.com or on the mobile app . You must be logged into your account to see the member rate. Member rates are not available through third-party booking websites.

10. Mobile Check-In and Mobile Key

Mobile Check-In and Mobile Key allow Marriott Bonvoy members to check in to their hotel room through the mobile app and have their room key on their phones. This feature isn’t always available but convenient when it is.

11. Cash + Points

When you don’t have enough Marriott Bonvoy points to pay for your whole stay, you can use a combination of points and cash to pay for your stay. The Cash + Points rate is available on a per-night basis. For example, and as the screenshot below shows, you could pay cash OR points for any amount of nights during your stay.

12. Instant Redemption

With Instant Redemption, you can redeem Marriott Bonvoy points as a credit for expenses you incur during your hotel stays. Eligible charges include room charges, food and beverage, golf, spa services, and incidental expenses. Points are redeemed at 250 Marriott Bonvoy points per dollar .

Redeemed points must be ordered at the front desk of the participating hotel during your stay. If you use points to cover an expense, you will not receive Marriott Bonvoy points for that expense. Instant redemption is not available at all-inclusive resorts; Atlantis, Paradise Island; City Express; Design Hotels; Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy; MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy; residence clubs; vacation clubs; and Vistana Properties.

13. PointsSavers

PointSavers are reduced redemption rates at select hotels. Because Marriott Bonvoy no longer has a published award chart, it’s impossible to know when a hotel will have PointSavers award availability.

14. Dedicated Elite Support

Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elites get access to dedicated elite support at 877-739-2737 .

There are a few differences between Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite and the next tier down, Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite.

To start, Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elites only earn 25% bonus points at participating Marriott Bonvoy properties. They also only receive a 2 p.m. late checkout, whereas Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elites receive a 4 p.m. late checkout.

Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elites also receive a welcome gift, but it will be either 250 or 500 Marriott Bonvoy points. They will not be offered a choice between points and another amenity, such as complimentary breakfast.

When it comes to room upgrades, Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elites receive an enhanced room upgrade based on availability upon arrival. Unlike Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elites, this room upgrade does not include suites .

Lastly, the greatest difference between the 2 tiers is Annual Choice Benefits, the most valuable of which is 5 Nightly Upgrade Awards , which allows you to elevate your hotel stay for no additional fee. You have a better chance of getting a room upgrade, including to a suite, when redeeming a Nightly Upgrade Award (which can clear up to 3 days before arrival) than you do with a space-available upgrade at check-in.

The next Marriott Bonvoy Elite status above Platinum Elite is Marriott Bonvoy Titanium Elite . Requiring 75 nights per year, Marriott Bonvoy Titanium Elites get even more perks like 75% bonus points on stays, complimentary United MileagePlus Premier Silver status, and 2 Annual Choice Benefits.

If you’re loyal to Marriott properties and find value in the perks that set Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite apart from lower statuses within the program, then yes, this status level is worth it. A later checkout time, Annual Choice Benefits, lounge access, and complimentary breakfast where available can make all the difference on vacation. And it doesn’t get much better than earning automatic Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status simply by holding the right credit card.

However, if you don’t frequent Marriott Bonvoy properties often and instead frequent other hotel brands, it might not be worth it. If this is the case, you may not be able to earn status through staying enough nights, and the annual fee on the premium Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card probably isn’t worth it for you.

Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status is the third-highest elite status level available under Marriott Bonvoy. Earned either by staying 50 nights or by holding the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card, this status grants elites perks like 4 p.m. late checkout, lounge access, and 50% bonus points on stays.

By comparison, Platinum Elite status is where guests see a noticeable difference in the perks offered, even making the next 2 highest tiers — Titanium Elite and Ambassador Elite — not very appealing when you consider the requirements compared to the perks.

Marriott Bonvy Platinum Elite is the sweet spot status level for Marriott Bonvoy loyalists and is worth earning year after year.

The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Bold ® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless ® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy™ Premier Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express ® Card, click here . For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Business ® American Express ® Card, click here . For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ® American Express ® card, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

What statuses are higher than marriott bonvoy platinum elite.

Titanium Elite and Ambassador Elite are the 2 Marriott Bonvoy Elite status levels above Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite.

How do I earn Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status?

Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status is earned in 1 of 2 ways: stay 50 nights in participating hotels or hold the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant card.

What perks come with Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status?

Some of the perks that come with Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status include:

• 50% bonus points on stays
• 4 p.m. late checkout
• Enhanced room upgrade
• Welcome amenity
• Annual Choice Benefit

How many nights do I need to qualify for Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status?

Earn Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status after staying 50 nights in a calendar year.

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About Ashley Onadele

Ashley discovered a love for travel in college that’s continued as her family has grown. She loves showing parents how they can take their families on trips using points and has contributed to numerous publications and podcasts.

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Here’s your guide to the Amex Platinum prepaid hotel credit

Editor's Note

In July 2021, American Express gave The Platinum Card® from American Express a significant refresh by adding several new annual credits.

Today we'll walk through one of the most notable benefits, $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid bookings with Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection properties with American Express Travel.

Let's walk through how to maximize this credit for your upcoming travels.

What is the Amex Platinum prepaid hotel credit?

Amex Platinum cardholders receive $200 back in statement credits each calendar year when they make bookings through Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts (FHR) or The Hotel Collection .

Amex FHR provides true elitelike benefits — such as daily breakfast, property credit, room upgrades, late checkout and other extras — at more than 1,100 luxury properties worldwide. Meanwhile, The Hotel Collection provides a room upgrade at check-in when available and up to a $100 hotel credit for qualifying dining, spa and resort activities.

Note that The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay, while Amex FHR properties do not have a minimum stay requirement.

How to use the Amex Platinum prepaid hotel credit

Unlike other Amex Platinum credits, you do not have to register for the prepaid hotel credit before using it.

To get started, you can either head to Amex Travel directly to search for a hotel or navigate to the Amex FHR and The Hotel Collection landing page .

Searching on the general Amex Travel site, you can filter hotels based on their program affiliation as Amex FHR and The Hotel Collection properties.

Related: Should you use points or cash to book hotels?

Then go through the booking process as you typically would and use your Platinum card to pay for your FHR or The Hotel Collection reservation.

American Express states it may take up to 90 days for the up to $200 annual statement credit to post, but it usually takes only three days on average . A prepaid Amex FHR booking for an upcoming hotel stay was credited to my Platinum card within a day.

Related: How American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts can land you elite-like benefits at top hotels

FAQs on Amex Platinum prepaid hotel credit

Are all hotels eligible for the amex platinum prepaid hotel credit.

No, not all hotels are eligible for the prepaid hotel credit. Your prepaid hotel must be booked through Amex Travel, specifically for a hotel within the Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection programs.

Is there a minimum stay requirement for the Amex Platinum prepaid hotel credit?

While there is technically no minimum stay requirement to use the prepaid hotel credit, you must book for at least two consecutive nights to qualify for The Hotel Collection. Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts do not have any minimum stay requirements.

Can I use the Amex Platinum prepaid hotel credit across multiple bookings?

Yes, if you don't spend all $200 on a single, prepaid Amex FHR or The Hotel Collection booking, you can receive up to $200 across multiple reservations.

Can I make back-to-back bookings using credits from two different years?

Yes, you can, but you would only be entitled to one property credit through the Amex FHR program because your two bookings are considered one stay.

For example, you could book a one-night stay for January 15 at an Amex FHR property on December 10 and up to $200 will be credited back onto your statement. Then on January 10, you could book another one-night stay for January 16 at the same Amex FHR property, getting you an additional $200 in statement credits, ultimately giving you a back-to-back stay.

Will I earn elite status or loyalty benefits when I use the Amex Platinum prepaid hotel credit?

Maybe. While many hotels will still provide loyalty benefits and elite credit for stays, not all do.

Related: Be careful how you book MGM hotels in Vegas

Do authorized users get their own Amex Platinum prepaid hotel credit?

No, Amex Platinum authorized users do not receive their own up to $200 prepaid hotel credit. However, the benefit may be split across all cards on the account.

Can you make modifications to prepaid bookings?

Statement credits may not be received or may be reversed if the booking is canceled or modified. It's best to call American Express Travel to change your booking dates and see if you are eligible to do so. It's important to note if the booking is canceled, American Express may claw back the $200 statement credit even if you receive a refund from American Express Travel, and chances are you might not receive another credit until the calendar year resets.

Bottom line

The up to $200 prepaid hotel credit is one of the most valuable benefits of the Amex Platinum . If you can fully utilize it and think it's worth it at or near face value, you're already coming out ahead of the Platinum Card's $695 annual fee (see rates and fees ). The properties bookable through the Amex FHR and The Hotel Collection program are well-rated premium properties that Amex says are hand-selected. Just be sure to book a prepaid rate.

For rates and fees of the Platinum Card from American Express, click here .