The Platinum Card from American Express

The Amex Platinum is the flagship premium travel card with unmatched lounge access and a staggering amount of annual credits. The 150,000 point bonus is very strong, though we've seen 175,000 via targeted offers. If you can use the credits (Uber, Saks, airline fees, etc.), the effective fee is much lower. I recommend this card for frequent travelers who value lounge access and premium perks over everyday earning rates.

Quick Verdict

Pros
  • Exceptional lounge access
  • Huge array of credits
  • Strong sign-up bonus
  • Valuable hotel and airline statuses
  • 5x on flights
Cons
  • $695 annual fee is steep
  • Only 1x on most spending
  • Credits require specific merchants/timing
  • Amex not accepted everywhere

Sign-up Bonus

150,000

Bonus points

Earn 150,000 points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 6 months from account opening. That's ~$2250 in value.

Earning Rates

5x

flights booked directly or via Amex Travel

5x

prepaid hotels via Amex Travel

1x

Others

On all other purchases

Key Benefits

$200 airline fee credit

$200 hotel credit (FHR/THC)

$240 digital entertainment credit

$200 Uber Cash annually

$100 Saks Fifth Avenue credit

Global Lounge Collection (Centurion, Priority Pass, Delta, etc.)

Hilton and Marriott Gold status

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit

Fine Hotels + Resorts benefits

Offer History

Historical High: 175,000 points
Period Bonus Spend Req.
2025-01-10 to present Current 150,000 points $8,000
2024-01-01 to 2025-01-09 125,000 points $8,000
2023-08-01 to 2023-10-31 175,000 points $8,000 Highest

Note: Historical offers are tracked for informational purposes. Past offers may not return.