American Express Platinum Card review: An elite travel card with first-class benefits

Core Points - The updated Platinum Card® from American Express offers numerous travel perks aimed at frequent travelers, including annual credits, airport lounge access, and exclusive hotel benefits [1][2] - Despite its high annual fee of $695, the card may provide significant value if users can effectively utilize its benefits [4][27] Features and Benefits - Annual Fee and Welcome Offer: The card has an annual fee of $695 and offers a welcome bonus of up to 175,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $8,000 in the first 6 months [4] - Rewards Rate: Cardholders earn 5x points for flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel, and 1x points on all other purchases [4][12] - Statement Credits: Over $3,500 in statement credits are available annually for travel, entertainment, and dining purchases [5][19] - Air Travel Perks: Up to $200 in statement credits for airline incidental fees and expedited airport security access through TSA PreCheck or Global Entry [5][6] - Airport Lounge Access: Access to over 1,550 airport lounges, including 30 Centurion Lounges, enhancing the travel experience [7] - Hotel Benefits: Complimentary elite hotel status with major hotel chains and additional perks when booking through Amex Travel [8][9][10] Additional Perks - Dining and Entertainment Credits: Up to $400 in dining credits through Resy, $300 in digital entertainment credits, and various other retail credits [19][20] - Insurance and Protections: Includes trip delay and interruption insurance, car rental damage coverage, and purchase protection [16] - Car Rental Status: Enrollment in exclusive car rental programs for added benefits [13] Target Audience - The card is best suited for frequent travelers who can maximize its travel-focused rewards and benefits [24][25] - Users who frequently shop at partnered brands can also derive significant value from the card [26]