If you travel economy (or low-cost) having an American Express Platinum makes your travels better at no cost
Often when I talk about credit cards and American Express in particular, I am replied that Amex is the [...]
Often when I talk about the credit cards and in particular American Express I am replied that Amex is the credit card of the rich. Which is partially true, just think of the super exclusive Centurion card.
In this article:
What I am trying to explain, however, is. many of the benefits that charters give to a "rich person" are not needed, because he or she can easily afford them. On the contrary, an ordinary person, thanks to the benefits included in credit cards, can obtain many advantages, economic and otherwise, Such that it amply repays the annual cost of the card itself.
Therefore, I have decided to list some of the benefits that need to be considered when considering the application of an American Express Platinum and a reason is sought to justify the €60 monthly fee. These benefits can allow the annual fee to be amortized and indeed, at the end of the year, earn the owner a profit.
Moreover, no one more than an economy traveler or frequent customer of low-cost carriers can earn from having in the wallet an American Express Platinum. Here's why:
#1 One share, two cards and double benefits.
The first thing to know is that in the annual fee you get two Platinum credit cards. One for the owner and an additional one that can be assigned to whomever you want. To the husband, mother, brother or son.
Many of the benefits provided in the cardholder card are doubled, even for the additional cardholder, so when doing the math of how to amortize the €60 monthly fee, it is good to keep this factor in mind.
#2 Fast track at major Italian airports.
Check in online, arrive at the airport, skip the queue by taking advantage of the routes reserved for business passengers, and in less than 5 minutes already be in the duty free shop looking for the deal of the day. This is feasible thanks to the fact that simply showing your card gives you access to the fast-track routes.
How much is this benefit worth? Many airports sell this service indicatively between €15 and €20 per passage, the savings grow depending on how many flights you take each year.
#3 Worldwide lounge access.
One of the main benefits, which are worth much more if you are traveling low-cost or economy, is precisely the ability to have in hand a Prestige level Priority Pass card, which has a market value of €400. Benefit that doubles since the supplementary holder is also entitled to its PP.
Being able to have free, four-guest access to lounges from Bergamo to New York, from Linate to London, allows you to save tens of euros at the airport and have a much more relaxed experience while waiting to board the plane. It doesn't matter if you are traveling with children or friends.
In addition, just the fact of being a Platinum holder provides access to hundreds of other lounges, some of them among the most beautiful in the world such as the Clubhouse of Virgin Atlantic in New York or the beautiful Centurion Lounge.
If you are a frequent visitor to the Bergamo airport., the realm of Ryanair, there is an added benefit: that of being able to skip the baggage check-in line as well. In fact, thanks to the Priority pass you have access to the pre-security screening lounge that allows you to check in in 30 seconds without going through the crowded counters of the low-cost carrier.
#4 Travel and rental insurance
When booking a ticket with a low-cost, but also with traditional carriers, we are always suggested to buy insurance that covers every inconvenience. Platinum not only offers insurance coverage that protects against any unforeseen event, but it does so with the highest guarantees of all available policies.
There will be no need to worry about travel inconveniences, as a suitcase that does not arrive at its destination Or a delayed flight. A cancellation in case of illness or an illness while traveling. Everything is safe. Going to the U.S. on vacation without insurance is a risk, If you are a Platinum holder you can sleep soundly, including for any Covid-19-related issues.
If you are used to renting a car when you travel, again. you will be able to do without taking out all the additional insurances that cost tens and tens of euros each day of rental. Further savings and a peace of mind that you are covered for any inconvenience.
#5 Hotel statuses and benefits when booking
The card allows cardholders to obtain elite status in 4 hotel chains, levels that in turn give many benefits when staying around Italy, Europe or the world. Flexible check-in/out times, room upgrades and free breakfasts are some of the advantages offered. Obviously without necessarily booking into a 5-star hotel, but taking advantage of these benefits even in hotels like Moxy and Garden Inn that offer rooms at an excellent price-quality ratio.
Then there is the Fine Hotels + Resorts program. which gives every booking minimum 100$ to spend in the facilities, free breakfast and upgrade to a higher category room (including suites), just by being Platinum holders.
#6 The cashback offers
Amex holders, of all cards, can Take advantage of dozens and dozens of cashback offers throughout the year. Obviously, the Platinum card has the most generous and attractive proposals. From groceries to online shopping, from travel to personal care, it is possible to save hundreds of euros every year. In addition, of course, to the €150 voucher to be used to book a hotel, flight or rental each year.
#7 Accumulate points with daily spending
It should also not be forgotten that everyday spending allows you to accumulate points, points that can in turn be turned into experiences such as trips and stays. Without spending a single euro more than you would normally spend.
#8 The dedicated concierge
The personal assistant is the one who helps the traveler enjoy the most out of his or her vacation. In short, a contact person to ask for help when you don't speak the local language and need something like booking an excursion or a table at a restaurant or a Broadway show. The concierge takes care of everything.
In conclusion
This card is perfect for those who travel at least 4/5 times a year, no matter if it's a weekend getaway or an intercontinental trip, the Platinum not only pays for itself, but allows you to eliminate so much negative stress related to travel. Of course, 60€ a month fee is a lot, but doing a quick count it is an expense that pays for itself in the first two trips of the year and the rest is all profit. Then if a simple inconvenience happens, then having or not having this card in one's wallet makes all the difference in the world.
