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Full List of Travel Insurance Benefits for the Amex Platinum Card [2024]

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Table of Contents

Amex platinum card overview, car rental loss and damage insurance, trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance, trip delay reimbursement, baggage insurance, premium global assist hotline, filing a claim, final thoughts.

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Frequent travelers who are interested in premium travel benefits and solid reward-earning opportunities gravitate to The Platinum Card ® from American Express . The card, as well as The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express , has been the go-to card for meeting travelers’ earning, redemption, and benefits needs.

We frequently cover Membership Rewards points-earning opportunities , as well as a multitude of ways to maximize the redemption options . We’ve even done a deep dive into getting the most from statement credits offered by Amex cards.

Next up in our collection of articles focusing on the valuable perks that come with the Amex Platinum card is the card’s travel insurance benefits. Insurance can be inherently confusing in general and the insurance coverages that come with credit cards can be equally so.

Fortunately, even a quick overview will give you some insight as to the insurance coverages you can expect on the Amex Platinum card. So, right here and now, we’re stepping up to deliver just that.

Let’s take a look at exactly which insurances come with the card, how these benefits can provide a level of peace of mind, and find out what situations might trigger the coverage to provide economic value.

It’s important to have a little background on the card to put its coverage into context. Here are important card details, including the current welcome bonus and annual fee.

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

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When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card ® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card  is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access , hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

• The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
• 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
• 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com
• $695 annual fee ( rates and fees )
• Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards ® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts ® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card ® . The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card ® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection ® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card ® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card ® .
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $199 CLEAR ® Plus Credit: CLEAR ® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck ® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card ® . Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card ® . That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card ® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.¤
• Terms Apply.
• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees:  None

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip:  Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 125k (or 150k) points with the Amex Platinum. The current public offer is 80,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

The Amex Platinum card comes with complimentary standard car rental insurance that provides secondary coverage when using your card to reserve and pay for your entire rental car contract. You also have the option to purchase premium primary car rental coverage .

For either coverage to be valid, you must decline the rental car agency’s LDW (loss damage waiver) or CDW (collision damage waiver) coverage when renting the vehicle.

Here’s an overview of how both of these coverages work:

Standard Car Rental Coverage

Secondary (standard) coverage means that you must first file a claim with any other applicable insurance you might have before the card coverage applies.

You can expect to receive excess secondary coverage for these losses:

• Damage to and theft of the vehicle
• Personal property up to $1,000 per person/$2,000 per accident
• Accidental injury up to $5,000 per claimant
• Accidental death/dismemberment up to $300,000

This is just a snapshot of the standard secondary car rental coverage; several terms and conditions apply. You should access the official guide to benefits or call your benefits administrator for specific information.

Premium Car Rental Protection Coverage

One of the real car rental insurance perks of holding the Amex Platinum card is having access to Premium Car Rental Protection coverage for just 1 low fee that covers the entire rental period, not a per-day charge like the rental agency charges.

Although there are some credit cards with primary rental car insurance , the American Express Premium Car Rental Protection coverage, in some circumstances, can provide equal or better coverage and elevated peace of mind. Terms and conditions apply.

Bottom Line: Consider Amex Premium Car Rental Protection if you don’t have a credit card that provides primary car rental insurance. Additionally, if you are renting an expensive vehicle that exceeds your card’s limit of coverage or the maximum length of the rental period on your other card is limited to less than 42 days, the Amex Premium Car Rental Protection could also be a prudent choice. 

Trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance are designed to cover unexpected, unforeseen events that may cause you to have to cancel your trip or that cause a disruption in a trip you’re already started.

To be eligible for coverage, purchase your entire round-trip common carrier ticket with your Amex Platinum card.

American Express has a broad definition of who is covered under this benefit. Eligible travelers can include the cardholder, traveling companion, family member of the eligible traveler, or family member of the traveling companion.

Examples of events that could be covered include the following:

• Bodily Injury or Illness — If you, a traveling companion, or a family member of either, experience an accidental injury or become ill, causing you to cancel your trip, you may have coverage
• Bad Weather — If extreme weather causes your trip to be canceled or disrupted, there could be coverage
• Change in Military Orders —Applies to cardmember and/or spouse (spouse definition includes domestic partner)
• Terrorist action or hijacking
• Jury duty or other qualifying legal obligation
• Uninhabitable dwelling of either the cardmember or traveling companion
• Quarantine imposed by a physician for health reasons

You can expect coverage of up to $10,000 per trip , and a maximum limit of $20,000 per card per 12-month period.

Terms and conditions apply.

Bottom Line: While the trip cancellation/trip interruption benefit covers specifically stated reasons for trip cancellation/interruption, there is no coverage for voluntary cancellations, disruptions due to known events, or for preexisting conditions. Additional terms and conditions can be found in your guide to benefits or call the benefits administrator prior to your trip.

Experiencing a trip delay is inevitable so having coverage for added expenses as a result of that delay could be a welcome economic benefit. To qualify for trip delay coverage, just pay for the full amount of your common carrier round-trip transportation ticket with your Amex Platinum card.

The delay must be for more than 6 hours for you to be eligible for reimbursement for necessary incidentals, meals, and lodging.

Coverage limits are $500 per covered trip and a maximum of up to 2 covered trips in each consecutive 12-month period. Coverage is secondary to other coverage that applies and does not include expenses that are reimbursed by the airline or other entities. Additional terms and conditions also apply.

Losing a checked bag used to be a very common occurrence. With new technology and tracking mechanisms, however, incidents have declined, but they still happen. If you do happen to experience lost bags, however, you can count on the baggage insurance found on the Amex Platinum card.

To activate the coverage , simply pay for your common-carrier fare with your card and/or Membership Rewards points.

Here’s the coverage you can expect for lost luggage:

• Checked Bags — Up to $2,000 per covered person, per trip
• Carry-on Bags — Up to $3,000 per covered person, per trip
• Specialty High-value Items — Up to $1,000 per person, per covered trip ($2,000 for New York residents, maximum $10,000 per trip)
• Combined Limit — The limit for all baggage, including high-risk items, is $3,000 per covered person, per single trip

Checked baggage is covered only while traveling on a common carrier . Carry-on baggage is additionally covered while traveling to , from , and when waiting at the carrier terminal.

Note that the coverage on the card is secondary to any other insurance or reimbursement you might receive from the airline. There is no coverage for delayed baggage , but several other credit cards do offer this coverage .

While technically not insurance coverage, having access to help when you’re traveling, 24/7, is sure to provide additional peace of mind. The Amex Platinum card offers a premium version of a dedicated helpline that serves as a welcome resource should things go wrong during your travels.

Here are the types of assistance you can expect from the service:

Emergency Medical Transport and Evacuation — Complimentary Coverages

One of the premium services offered on the card is complimentary emergency medical transport or evacuation . If you or a covered family member becomes injured or ill during your travels, you could receive emergency medical transportation or evacuation , if necessary.

You can expect to receive the following services without charge when arranged via the hotline:

• Emergency Transport or Evacuation — Transport to the nearest medical facility or transport from an inadequate medical facility
• Transport of Family Member — Transport may be covered for an adult member to be by the bedside of the cardmember or for the cardmember’s minor child (who had been traveling alone with the cardmember) to be transported back to the U.S.
• Transport of Remains — Amex will pay for the transport of remains back to the U.S.
• Post-Evacuation Assistance — If you’re evacuated and your return ticket back to the U.S. has become invalid, Amex will arrange and pay for transportation back to the U.S.

Please note that the Premium Global Assist Hotline does not cover any medical expenses or emergency transportation services arranged outside of the hotline. Several terms and conditions apply to these coverages.

Additional Medical Assistance

In addition to the complimentary coverages offered by the hotline, you’ll find these additional medical services:

• Medical Referrals — Receive help finding an English-speaking doctor, a hospital, or other needed medical services
• Prescription Replacement Assistance — Get help with replacing lost or forgotten medications

There is no charge for the referral service but cardmembers are responsible for actual services received from the provider.

Other Hotline Services

• Passport/Visa Assistance — Whether you need help replacing a passport or have a need to contact the U.S. consulate, the hotline can assist
• Emergency Translation Services — Receive over-the-phone services or written language translation assistance
• Legal Referrals — Should you need legal services during your trip, the hotline can help you find local bail bond services that accept Amex or refer you to other legal personnel
• Financial Assistance — The hotline can help you arrange cash wire services, help you check out of your hotel remotely, or assist with lost card situations
• Emergency Message Relay — In the event of an emergency, the hotline can send a message to a family member, friend, or another recipient on your behalf
• Lost Items — Should you lose an item, your baggage gets lost, or other missing possession, the hotline can help track it down
• Trip Planning Services — Access information such as weather, currency exchange rates, passport/visa requirements, customs information, travel warnings, and more

Bottom Line: The Amex Platinum card comes with complimentary emergency transportation and evacuation services with no stated limit. Additional medical, legal, and travel service referrals are also complimentary, but other than the emergency medical transportation and evacuation, services rendered must be paid for by the cardholder. 

As with any insurance claim, you’ll need to report any event as soon as possible, provide supporting documentation, and follow up after the claim has been filed.

You could be expected to submit any, or all, of the following:

• Copies of your common carrier ticket
• Copies of your credit card statement showing the expenses
• Proof of the loss (i.e. a copy of physician’s quarantine order, military orders, etc.)
• Copy of the travel supplier’s cancellation policy
• Any other supporting documentation requested by the claims administrator

Claims must be reported within 60 days but it is best to do it as soon as possible. Once you report the claim, you’ll receive instructions for completing the next steps in the process.

Hot Tip: Be sure to take photos and videos, keep receipts, secure any applicable police report, and hold on to other documentation that might be needed to support your claim. Keep in mind that supporting information can be difficult to obtain after the fact but may be readily secured at the time of the claim. 

While the insurance that comes with the Amex Platinum card won’t take the place of a comprehensive travel insurance policy , you’ll find value in several of the benefits.

Utilizing Premium Car Rental Protection, trip cancellation/interruption, trip delay, and complimentary emergency medical transport or evacuation could save you more than you could imagine in certain circumstances.

Additionally, knowing the coverages you have in advance has tremendous value. You’ll be armed with information to make educated decisions that can protect each aspect of your trip and be better prepared for how you might handle a covered incident during your travels. If you’re looking for other card options, see our article on the best credit cards for travel insurance .

All information and content provided by Upgraded Points is intended as general information and for educational purposes only, and should not be interpreted as medical advice or legal advice. For more information, see our  Medical & Legal Disclaimers .

For the car rental collision damage coverage benefit of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, 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. 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. For the trip cancellation and interruption insurance coverage benefit of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, the maximum benefit amount for trip cancellation and interruption insurance is $10,000 per covered trip and $20,000 per eligible card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company. For the trip delay insurance benefits of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, up to $500 per covered trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per eligible card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company. For the baggage insurance plan benefit of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, baggage insurance plan coverage can be in effect for covered persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen baggage during their travel on a common carrier vehicle (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the entire fare for a ticket for the trip (one-way or round-trip) is charged to an eligible card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the common carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per covered trip. For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each covered person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all covered persons per covered trip. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. For the Premium Global Assist Hotline benefit of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, you can rely on the Global Assist Hotline 24 hours a day / 7 days a week for medical, legal, financial or other select emergency coordination and assistance services while traveling more than 100 miles away from your home. Plus, we may provide emergency medical transportation assistance and related services. Third-party service costs may be your responsibility. Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. If approved and coordinated by Premium Global Assist Hotline, emergency medical transportation assistance may be provided at no cost. In any other circumstance, Card members may be responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers. 

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here .

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How American Express Cruise Benefits Work

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American Express offers exclusive benefits when you book a cruise through its AmEx Cruise Privileges program.

As a cardholder of The Platinum Card® from American Express or The Business Platinum Card® from American Express , you'll receive credits and amenities to enjoy during your trip. Terms apply.

Learn more about these benefits, how to use them and how to maximize rewards on your next cruise vacation.

American Express Cruise Privileges program

American Express cardholders earn rewards and benefits when booking travel through the AmEx Travel portal . The Amex Cruise Privileges program offers exclusive benefits for American Express Platinum members with participating cruise lines.

Offers include complimentary land packages and onboard credits. Additionally, all eligible American Express cards that earn Membership Rewards receive 2x points when booking cruises through AmEx Travel.

Terms apply.

» Learn more: The best ways to book a cruise

AmEx Platinum cruise benefits

AmEx Platinum cruise benefits vary based on which cruise line you book and the details of your cruise. AmEx cardholders can book online or call AmEx Travel at 866-669-4423 to receive these exclusive benefits.

At the moment, American Express partners with 18 different cruise lines. Each cruise line offers different benefits across a variety of price points, travel dates and selected cabins.

Shipboard credit

As part of the American Express Cruise Privileges program, eligible cardholders receive $100 to $300 of onboard credits per stateroom. These credits are redeemable for dining, spa services and more. They cannot be used for casino charges, gratuities or similar expenses.

The shipboard credits are applied to your final bill at the end of your cruise.

They may be paid in local currency and are subject to foreign currency fluctuations. Any unused portion of your credits is nonrefundable, so travelers should use them fully.

Exclusive amenities that vary by cruise line

In addition to an onboard credit, reservations include exclusive amenities unique to each cruise line. Examples include premium wine, assorted canapés, spa vouchers and behind-the-scenes ship tours.

American Express Royal Caribbean benefits include one bottle of champagne per stateroom, while Regent Seven Seas passengers receive a private gallery tour.

Visit the American Express Platinum cruise deals page to view each program partner's offers.

» Learn more: The best cruise lines

How to receive American Express cruise benefits

To receive your cruise benefits, follow these steps and ensure your reservation meets the requirements.

Call or book online with AmEx Travel

Your reservations must be booked through AmEx Travel online or over the phone. These benefits are unavailable if you book directly with the cruise line or through a third party, like a travel agent or online travel agency.

Cruise must be at least five days and have double-occupancy

The cruise must be at least five days long, and you must be traveling with at least double occupancy in your room.

Onboard credits and other amenities are available for up to three staterooms per eligible card member, per cruise. So, you can share benefits with fellow travelers if you book all of the staterooms together using your eligible credit card.

Cardholder must travel on the cruise

While you can book additional rooms for travel companions, the cardholder paying for the cruise must be on the trip. Otherwise, those on the cruise will not receive the benefits.

Book an eligible room type

Not all staterooms are eligible for Cruise Privileges program benefits. Requirements vary by cruise line, so double-check eligibility before booking your room to avoid disappointment during your trip.

Use an eligible card to pay

To receive benefits AmEx Cruise Privileges program benefits, you must use an eligible American Express card to pay for your trip. Eligible cards from the U.S. include:

The Platinum Card® from American Express .

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express .

The Centurion® Card.

The Business Centurion® Card.

Other cards that offer similar benefits, like the American Express® Gold Card or the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card , are not eligible for these benefits.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

How to maximize rewards and benefits when booking cruises through AmEx Travel

You'll maximize the rewards and benefits available for your cruise vacation by booking your reservation through AmEx Travel.

Earning vs. redeeming points

American Express Platinum travel cruises earn 2x points on cash reservations. Eligible cardholders can also book American Express rewards cruises using points. Cardholders can redeem points for a portion or all of the cruise cost.

The redemption value of 0.7 cents per point is substantially lower than our average valuation of 2.8 cents each . Due to this low valuation, we recommend saving your points for another redemption and paying cash for your cruise.

Compare credits and amenities among cruise lines

With so many participating cruise lines, travelers have many options available. In some cases, the prices are similar among different lines.

Compare onboard credits and amenities offered to find the best value, even if it means paying a little more upfront.

Waived cancellation fees

AmEx Travel does not charge cancellation or change fees if you need to adjust your reservations. However, the cruise line may charge penalties depending on when you booked, where you're traveling, how long the cruise is and other factors.

Generally, these fees increase as you get closer to your departure date. Before booking your cruise, review the cruise line’s change and cancellation policies to understand what fees may apply.

» Learn more: Tips for collecting AmEx Membership Rewards

American Express cruise benefits, recapped

Eligible American Express cardholders receive exclusive perks on participating cruise lines when booking through AmEx Travel. The AmEx Platinum cruise benefits include onboard credits, exclusive amenities and 2x points on the cash portion of your reservation.

American Express partners with 18 different cruise lines, so there's a strong chance that one of them has a special offer for your desired destination.

Before booking, ensure your trip meets the cruise's requirements to qualify for your AmEx Cruise Privileges program benefits.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

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

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ 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

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

on Bank of America's website

1.5x-2x Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

60,000 Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

Amex Platinum vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve: Which $550-plus card is right for you?

It seems almost every airline, hotel chain and credit card issuer has launched its own premium credit card , enticing customers with luxury travel perks paired with hefty annual fees. Many of these cards offer solid value, especially if you're loyal to the underlying brand.

There are two long-standing titans of the premium card market: The Platinum Card® from American Express and the Chase Sapphire Reserve® . The former built the market for premium rewards cards decades ago, while the latter is responsible for growing its mass appeal.

Since the Sapphire Reserve debuted in 2016, competition between these two cards has been fierce. Today, we will examine how they compare and whether you should consider adding one (or both) to your wallet.

Related: The best travel credit cards

Amex Platinum vs. Sapphire Reserve comparison

*enrollment is required for select benefits, amex platinum vs. sapphire reserve welcome offer.

When considering a new card, especially one with a $500-plus annual fee, most people first look at the welcome offer to see how much of that annual fee they can start recouping immediately.

With its $695 annual fee (see rates and fees ), the Amex Platinum offers new applicants 80,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $8,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership. However, it's worth checking to see if you're targeted for a higher offer of up to 150,000 points through the CardMatch tool (offer subject to change at any time).

TPG values Membership Rewards points at 2 cents each, making the initial welcome offer of 80,000 points worth $1,600 alone. Since Amex only allows you to earn a welcome offer on each of its cards once per lifetime , it might be tempting to hold off on applying for the Amex Platinum in hopes that you may be targeted through CardMatch for a higher bonus at some point in the future.

Meanwhile, the Chase Sapphire Reserve is currently offering a sign-up bonus of 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 in the first three months from account opening.

TPG values Ultimate Rewards points at 2.05 cents each, making this bonus worth $1,230. That's slightly lower than the Amex Platinum offer, though the spending requirement to earn the bonus is also lower.

Winner: The Amex Platinum takes the lead in this first category, especially if you are targeted for an elevated offer through CardMatch.

Related: The best time to apply for these popular cards based on offer history

Amex Platinum vs. Sapphire Reserve benefits

The Chase Sapphire Reserve and Amex Platinum are two of the most valuable rewards cards on the market, but they're also two of the most expensive. You'll pay a $550 annual fee with the Sapphire Reserve and a $695 annual fee with the Amex Platinum.

Let's take a look below at the most popular and valuable perks available (note that enrollment is required for select benefits):

*Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered, and geographic restrictions apply. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for details. Policies are underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

**Eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for details. Policies are underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

***Effective February 1, 2025: Eligible Platinum Card Members will receive 10 Visits per Eligible Platinum Card per year to the Delta Sky Club or to Grab and Go when traveling on a same-day Delta-operated flight.

This is by far the trickiest part of the comparison, with many different pieces to unpack. It's also where your personal preferences may sway you to one card or another.

For starters, the Sapphire Reserve still has an edge over Amex regarding the $300 annual travel credit . Not only is it a higher amount than the up-to-$200 airline fee credit that comes with the Amex Platinum, but it's also much less restrictive. It will automatically apply to a broad range of travel purchases. In contrast, the $200 Amex airline credit only applies to select fees such as seat assignments or checked bags — and you're limited to a single airline you designate each year.

Regarding ride-hailing services, some people see the up-to-$200 in annual (U.S.) Uber Cash (broken into $15 a month, with a $20 bonus in December; enrollment required) that comes with the Amex Platinum card as a cash-like credit. However, not everyone uses a ride-hailing service or places an Uber Eats order in the U.S. once a month, which means the 10 points per dollar spent on Lyft rides with the Sapphire Reserve might be a more valuable option.

On the flip side, if you live in a smaller city or never order food, you might find the DoorDash partnership with Chase useless.

The same can be said of certain perks on the Amex Platinum — including statement credits with Saks Fifth Avenue, Clear and select digital entertainment providers. If you already use these services or merchants, it's like money back in your pocket. If not, you may find they aren't a real value-add relative to the annual fee. Enrollment required for select benefits.

Meanwhile, the Amex Platinum is widely considered the most comprehensive card for airport lounge access . Although the Priority Pass Select membership that comes with this card no longer allows you to access participating restaurants , the access to Amex's wide collection of Centurion Lounges and Delta Sky Clubs on same-day Delta flights (limited to 10 annual visits from February 1, 2025) should be enough to make up for that.

Meanwhile, the Sapphire Reserve offers a Priority Pass membership as well as access to the growing network of Chase lounges .

Another area where Amex excels is by offering Gold Elite status with both Marriott and Hilton to Platinum cardholders (enrollment required). Chase offers no equivalent benefit.

Chase has historically been the leader in travel insurance, with generous terms. Amex has partially closed the gap , adding a suite of travel protection benefits to the Amex Platinum card (see here for more information).

Winner: Amex Platinum is the clear winner when it comes to perks and benefits, including up to $1,400-plus in annual statement credits , expanded airport lounge access, travel protections, and elite status with Marriott and Hilton.

Related: How to decide if a card's annual fee is worth paying

Earning points on the Amex Platinum vs. Sapphire Reserve

Long after your bonus has been earned and spent, you'll want a card to help you quickly rack up valuable transferable points .

Both of these cards do that, but in very different ways. Your best option depends on which other Chase or Amex cards you currently have in your wallet and how the bonus categories on those other cards overlap with the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Amex Platinum .

Chase offers a broader range of bonus categories, including everyday purchases like travel and dining . While the Amex Platinum does pull ahead on airfare booked directly with airlines (with a terrific 10% return based on TPG valuations), the Chase Sapphire Reserve pulls ahead for dozens of other travel expenses, including most hotels, ride-hailing services, parking fees, tolls and tours. It also has an equally broad 3 points per dollar spent on dining that the Platinum can't match.

Winner: Chase Sapphire Reserve is the best for earning thanks to its favorable everyday bonus categories that help you earn more points in the long term.

Related: Best reward cards for each bonus category

Redeeming points on the Amex Platinum vs. Sapphire Reserve

With Chase Ultimate Rewards and Amex Membership Rewards worth a comparable 2.05 and 2.0 cents apiece in TPG's valuations, it's worth looking at the different transfer partners to decide which ones best suit your needs.

Let's start with the Chase Sapphire Reserve . In addition to its 14 airline and hotel transfer partners , Sapphire Reserve customers get a 50% bonus when redeeming points for travel directly through the Chase Travel portal . This gives you an absolute minimum redemption value of 1.5 cents per point, meaning you can book a seat on any flight that's for sale, even if there isn't award space available.

If you opt to use your Amex points directly through American Express Travel, you won't get nearly the value you do through Chase. Flight bookings are a flat 1 cent per point, while hotel reservations clock in at just 0.7 cents apiece.

Winner : Chase Sapphire Reserve has a higher straight-up redemption value for travel.

Transferring points on the Amex Platinum vs. Sapphire Reserve

You'll often get a better value by transferring your points to the loyalty programs of airlines and hotels instead. All Chase partner transfers are at a 1:1 ratio, and most of them are instant . Ultimate Rewards has a real edge for hotel bookings because of its partnership with World of Hyatt, where you can book an award night for as low as 3,500 points per night .

On the airline side, popular redemption options include United MileagePlus , Southwest Rapid Rewards , British Airways Avios , Virgin Atlantic Flying Club and Air France-KLM Flying Blue — though the last three also partner with Amex Membership Rewards. The same holds true for Air Canada Aeroplan — though if you also hold the Aeroplan ® Credit Card , you can enjoy a 10% bonus on certain transfers from Chase Ultimate Rewards to your Aeroplan account.

Meanwhile, Amex Membership Rewards has a whopping 21 transfer partners , but not all are worth your attention. Some have transfer ratios below 1:1, have longer transfer times (which means you risk watching your award space disappear) or simply don't have reasonably priced redemption options.

TPG credit cards writer Emily Thompson prefers to transfer to ANA Mileage Club , Air Canada Aeroplan and Avianca LifeMiles , each offering attractive options for booking Star Alliance tickets. Cathay Pacific Asia Miles, British Airways Executive Club and Delta SkyMiles are also popular transfer options.

Winner: Chase Sapphire Reserve comes out on top for redemption options since it offers a 1:1 transfer ratio for all its airline and hotel partners.

Should I get the Amex Platinum or Sapphire Reserve?

Between hotel elite status and Centurion Lounge access, the Amex Platinum is better suited for those looking to enjoy a more luxurious travel lifestyle. If you frequently purchase airfare qualifying for 5 points per dollar, this card deserves a spot in your wallet. On the other hand, the Sapphire Reserve offers a slightly lower annual fee, lounge access and broader points-earning opportunities.

Bottom line

The Sapphire Reserve is a premium card simple enough for beginners and pros alike. The $300 annual travel credit is automatically applied to a wide range of purchases. Plus, you earn 3 points per dollar on travel (excluding the $300 travel credit) and dining, and these categories are broad enough that you won't be scratching your head trying to decide if you're swiping the right card.

The Amex Platinum is better suited to those looking for a more luxurious travel lifestyle who can take advantage of all the annual statement credits.

To learn more, read our full reviews of the Sapphire Reserve and Amex Platinum .

Apply here: Amex Platinum Apply here: Chase Sapphire Reserve

For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum, click here .

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5 Min Read | Last updated: August 15, 2024

A Look at The Platinum Card’s Elevated Travel, Airline, & Hotel Benefits

Learn how the American Express Platinum Card advances the promise of everyday adventure with its lavish assortment of travel-focused benefits, credits, and perks.

At-A-Glance

The Platinum Card ® by American Express offers a variety of special travel benefits and statement credits aimed to help make every trip even more special.

The Platinum Card includes complimentary elite status at participating hotels and access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 650 cities in 140 countries and counting.

Platinum Card Members can also unlock statement credits that can enhance their travel experience, such as the $199 CLEAR Plus ® Credit and $200 Airline Fee Credit.

If you’re ready for a transcendent travel experience, try refueling your passion for adventure with the  The Platinum Card ® by American Express . Here’s a close look at how the Platinum Card expands on the many travel benefits Card Members have come to know and love – so you can get more out of every trip, whether you’re planning a staycation or a journey to a far-flung destination.

Earning Membership Rewards Points with Platinum

The Platinum Card comes with a $695 annual fee 1 and provides lucrative  ways to earn Membership Rewards ® points  on travel spending, including:

• 5X Points on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel, on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
• 5X Points on prepaid hotels booked on AmexTravel.com.
• 1X Points on all other eligible purchases.

Treat Yourself to a Luxury Stay with Premium Hotel Benefits

Earning points is one thing, but there are plenty of rewarding perks that come with the Platinum Card, including premium hotel benefits like the $200 Hotel Credit. Card Members can receive up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid bookings at over 2,600 hand-selected hotels that are part of the Fine Hotels + Resorts ® and The Hotel Collection programs. Bookings must be made through American Express Travel and charged to your Platinum Card.

Those two hotel programs are designed to provide Platinum Card Members with the most rewarding, rejuvenating stay possible. For example:

• Fine Hotels + Resorts offers an exclusive suite of benefits, including a room upgrade upon arrival, when available, daily breakfast for two, guaranteed 4pm check-out, and more – worth an average total value of $550 2 per stay. Certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade.
• The Hotel Collection offers premium benefits including a $100 credit to use towards eligible charges, which may include food and beverage, spa, or other on-property charges (eligible charges vary by property). The Hotel Collection requires a two-night minimum stay. Certain room categories are not eligible for upgrade.

Platinum Card Members can also enroll to receive complimentary Hilton Honors TM Gold status and Marriott Bonvoy TM Gold Elite status. Perks of elite status depend on the hotel loyalty program, but you can generally earn benefits like extra loyalty points on stays and room upgrades when available.

Statement Credits to Enhance Your Travel Experience

On top of the premium hotel benefits, the Platinum Card comes with statement credits that can help enhance your travel experience. For example:

• $199 CLEAR ® Plus Credit: Every minute counts when you’re eager to travel. CLEAR Plus helps get you to your gate faster by using unique facial attributes to verify you are you at 50+ airports nationwide. Use the dedicated CLEAR Lane to confirm your identity without taking out your passport or ID – this can mean shorter lines, less waiting. Receive up to $199 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for your CLEAR Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Platinum Card.
• $100 Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck ® : Platinum Card Members are also eligible to receive either a statement credit every 4 years after they apply for Global Entry ($100) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after they apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay for the application fee with their Platinum Card. If you’re approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you’ll receive access to TSA PreCheck. For full terms and conditions, click here .
• American Express relies on airlines to submit the correct information on airline transactions to identify incidental fee purchases. If you do not see a credit for a qualifying incidental purchase on your eligible Card after 8 weeks, simply call the number on the back of your Card. Qualifying airlines are subject to change. See terms & conditions for more details.

Lounge Access Helps You Start Your Adventure Before Boarding

The Platinum Card helps you live for all moments, big and small. This includes providing an escape at the airport with the American Express Global Lounge Collection ® , with complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 650 cities in 140 countries and counting.

Whether you’re looking for a unique dining experience or simply a space to relax or catch up on work, airport lounges provide unique amenities and exclusive perks – so you can fully appreciate even those in-between moments.

Ride and Dine in Style with $200 Uber Cash

Whether it’s an Uber ride to the airport or ordering in at your hotel with Uber Eats, Platinum Card Members can receive $15 in Uber Cash to use on eligible orders with Uber Eats and rides with Uber in the US every month plus a bonus $20 in December, delivered through an exclusive Uber app experience. That's up to $200 for Uber orders with Uber Eats and rides with Uber annually.

You'll also become an Uber VIP, where available, without meeting minimum ride requirements and be matched with top-rated drivers, so that even a 5-minute trip can be a 5-star experience. (Uber Cash and Uber VIP are available to Basic Card Members only.) 3

The Takeaway

The Platinum Card from American Express has always paved the way in travel benefits, and it continues to go above and beyond. Card Members can enjoy access to hotel and airline credits, access to airport lounges, and faster journeys through airport security – making each moment more memorable.

Show Article Sources

1 For more on Rates and Fees for The Platinum Card ® , click here .

2 Average value based on Fine Hotels + Resorts bookings in 2023 for stays of two nights. Benefits include daily breakfast for two, room upgrade upon arrival when available, $100 credit, guaranteed 4PM late checkout, noon check-in when available, and complimentary wi-fi. Certain room categories not eligible for upgrade. $100 credit varies by property. Actual value will vary based on property, room rate, upgrade availability, and use of benefits.

3 For more on Offers & Benefit Terms for The Platinum Card ® , click here .

Megan Doyle  is a business technology writer and researcher whose work focuses on financial services and cross-cultural diversity and inclusion.

All Credit Intel  content is written by freelance authors and commissioned and paid for by American Express. 

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