The Amex Platinum (Best Lounge Access Card)
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Our Verdict
When you think of a premium credit card, odds are you think of The Platinum Card® from American Express, and you’d be right to do so (however, unlike typical credit cards, it allows you to carry a balance for certain charges, but not all). It’s also best known for being the #1 airport lounge access card with exclusive network access
The Amex Platinum card combines elite travel and lifestyle benefits like access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, elite status with 2 hotel chains, plus yearly credits with Uber and Saks Fifth Avenue, making it a perfect option for anyone who wants an elevated credit card experience.
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Note that terms may apply and enrollment may be required for some benefits listed below.
Apply for The Amex Platinum Card
Pros
- Access to 1,300+ Lounges including: Amex Centurion lounges, Priority Pass lounges (enrollment required), Plaza Premium lounges, Airspace lounges, Escape lounges, and Delta Sky Clubs when flying Delta
- Earn 5x 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 points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
- Up to $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year in baggage fees and more at one select qualifying airline.
- Up to $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the U.S. annually.
- Up to $200 Hotel Credit: Get $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel when you pay with your card. Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
- Up to $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back each month on eligible purchases made with your card on one or more of the following: Disney+, The Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
- Up to $155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your card. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax.
- Up to $300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $300 back each year on the Equinox+ digital fitness app, or eligible Equinox club memberships when you pay with your card. Enrollment required.
- Up to $199 CLEAR Credit: Use your card and get up to $199 back per year on your CLEAR membership.
- Complimentary Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status upon enrollment
- TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fee statement credit of up to $100
Cons
- $695 annual fee (rates & fees)
- Limited bonus earning categories
*This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP and not the card issuer.
Don’t Get If
- You don’t travel much or don’t value the card’s benefits
Great Card If
- You travel often enough to take advantage of the cards travel perks
- Access to the best airport lounges is important to you
- You’re easily able to use the annual credits
- You want hotel elite status with Hilton and/or Marriott
