There are cards that travel with you, then there are travel cards that take you where you want to go and beyond. American Express is a company curating that philosophy, and nothing really exemplifies that more than the Platinum and Centurion cards. Listed below are more than just noteworthy amenities if you’re a Platinum or Centurion member, but items worth taking advantage of to get the best out of life.*
$200 Airline Free Credit.
Select an airline as your primary airline (most airlines are qualifying), and should you have incidentals such as extra baggage fees, ticket change fees, in-flight purchases, etc. you will be reimbursed up to $200 per calendar year. And this credit occurs every new calendar year.
Fee credit for TSA Pre✓™ or Global Entry.
Tired of waiting in lines at the airport? Apply for TSA Pre✓™ for domestic flights, or Global Entry for those who travel in and out of the country, and be reimbursed your application fee. Once approved, they are good for 5 years, and are reimbursable again at the time of renewal.
No Foreign Transaction Fee.
Most cards charge a fee when you make purchases outside the country, even if simply shopping online. With these cards, you can stop that now.
Fine Hotels & Resorts.
One of the most valuable benefits of these cards. The benefits are varied, but of immense value, and too varied to mention here. From a complimentary night to resort credit with each stay, you must check it out for yourself at www.americanexpressfhr.com
Starwood Preferred Guest Gold.
If you enjoy staying in Starwood’s hotels like St. Regis, The Luxury Collection, W Hotels, etc, then just go ahead and skip Starwood Prefereed Guest for SPG Gold. Receive a 50% bonus points over base-level membership, upgrades, and other complimentary amenities.
Hilton HHonors Gold Status.
For those who enjoy staying at Waldorf Astoria, Conrad, and other Hilton properties, Platinum members receive automatic Gold Status. This includes 25% Elite Status points, the 5th night free, and other benefits.
Centurion Lounge.
The lounge above all other lounges. The American Express brand lounge currently in LAS, DFW, LGA, SFO, MIA, and SEA. Being a member with these cards gets you into all of these lounges. You can also bring family, or up to two guests at all lounges except for SEA (Centurion Studio) which you may only bring one.
Airport Club Access.
American Express has entered into agreements with other lounges should you want to use one where a Centurion Lounge isn’t available. Visit Delta Sky Club, or Airspace Lounge by showing your I.D., Platinum or Centurion card, and your same-day boarding pass. You also receive complimentary access to Priority Pass Select Lounges. (You need to enroll first, which you can do online or via phone. Wait for your member card which takes about a month to get because you’ll need that before you can access these lounges. Priority Pass is good to have for international travelers because they are worldwide.)
Car Rental Privileges.
Receive complimentary membership upgrades at Avis, Hertz, and National. New Suburban SUV for the price of a Toyota Corolla? Trust me, it’s worth it. Contact customer service to get you enrolled.
*For specific, and up-to-the-minute, information about this and all American Express benefits, please visit americanexpress.com and log-in to your account.