American Express (Amex) offers several credit cards that cater to travelers, offering specific rewards, bonuses, and features. From airport lounge access to incoming airline miles, the first-class Amex cards for travel can enhance your adventure while helping you earn precious points for future journeys.
This manual will explore the American Express credit cards for trips in 2025, breaking down their key capabilities, rewards packages, and how they could benefit common travelers. Whether you’re looking for luxury journey perks or robust rewards, there is an Amex card that suits your travel wishes.
Summary Table (TLDR)
Top 9 American Express Credit Cards for Travel [2025]
| S. N. | Name of Reward Credit Card | Best Feature/ Known For |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | American Express Platinum Card | Premium travel benefits and lounge access |
| 2. | American Express Gold Card | Generous rewards on dining and travel |
| 3. | American Express Green Card | Low annual fees and travel rewards |
| 4. | American Express Business Platinum Card | Extensive business travel perks |
| 5. | American Express Business Gold Card | Flexible rewards for business spending |
| 6. | Delta SkyMiles® Gold Amex Card | Great for earning DeltaSky Miles |
| 7. | American Express Corporate Green Card | Corporate travel perks and rewards |
| 8. | American Express Corporate Platinum Card | High-level corporate travel rewards |
| 9. | The Platinum® Card for Schwab | Access to Schwab Platinum Rewards |
Best American Express Credit Cards for Travel for [March 2025]
1. American Express Platinum Card
The American Express Platinum Card is a premium travel card with 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels. It has luxury perks such as Centurion Lounge access, Hilton and Marriott elite status, and annual airline fee credits, making it perfect for frequent travelers.
Travel Reward and Luxury Benefit
| Issuer | American Express |
| Payment Gateway | AMEX |
| Credit Score | Excellent |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Regular APR | 21.24%–29.24% |
| Sign-up Bonus | 80,000 Membership Rewards points after $8,000 spent in 6 months |
| Best For | Professionals Frequent Travelers |
The Platinum Card® from Amex, issued by American Express, offers unparalleled travel benefits, including airport lounge access and hotel upgrades. Its best feature is the no pre-set spending limit, providing flexibility and exclusive experiences.
The card has an annual fee of ₹66,000 plus applicable taxes. Unique features include access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection and a renewal benefit worth up to ₹35,000. The required credit score is 750+. The referral program offers additional Membership Rewards points.
Key Features:
- Travel Rewards
- Luxury Benefits
- Lounge Access
Reward Rate:
- 5x points on flights booked via Amex Travel
- 5x points on prepaid hotels booked via Amex Travel
Other Information:
- No Foreign Transaction fees
- Cash advance fee of 5% or $10
Pros & Cons of American Express Platinum Card
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Premium travel perks (lounge access, hotel elite status) | High annual fee ($695) |
| 5x points on flights | No intro APR offer |
| Annual travel credits | Rewards best for frequent travelers |
Expert Advice:
Book flights with airlines or Amex Travel to optimize your rewards. To maximize your travel experience, take advantage of airport lounge access and hotel status perks. Also, make sure to use travel credits yearly to counterbalance the high annual fee.
2. American Express Gold Card
The Amex Gold Card earns 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines and Amex Travel. While it is primarily a dining rewards card, its travel perks include no foreign transaction fees, hotel perks, and flexible point redemption for flights, making it a good option for infrequent travelers.
Travel and Dining Rewards
| Issuer | American Express |
| Payment Gateway | AMEX |
| Credit Score | Good-Excellent |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Regular APR | 21.24%–29.24% |
| Sign-up Bonus | 60,000 Membership Rewards points after $4,000 spent in 6 months |
| Best For | Food Enthusiasts Frequent Travelers |
The American Express® Gold Card, issued by American Express, provides generous rewards on everyday purchases, including dining and travel. Its best feature is the Membership Rewards program, offering valuable points for various expenses.
The card has an annual fee of $325 plus applicable taxes. Unique features include no pre-set spending limit and access to the Gold Collection rewards. The required credit score is 700+. The referral program offers bonus Membership Rewards points.
Key Features:
- Dining Rewards
- Travel Rewards
- No Foreign Transaction Fee
Reward Rate:
- 4x points on dining at restaurants
- 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines
Other Information:
- Cash advance fee of 5% or $10
Pros & Cons of American Express Gold Card
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 4x points on dining and groceries | Limited travel benefits |
| 3x points on flights | No airport lounge access |
| Lower annual fee than Platinum | Rewards redemption limitations |
Expert Advice:
If you dine out regularly and travel infrequently, this card has a well-balanced rewards structure. Use it in conjunction with another Amex travel card to maximize rewards. Redeem points for flights via Amex Travel or transfer to airline partners for maximum reward.
3. American Express Green Card
The Amex Green Card is a solid mid-tier travel card with 3X Membership Rewards® points on travel, transit, and dining. It also has credits for CLEAR® and LoungeBuddy, making it perfect for travelers who want convenience and flexibility without the high price tag of premium cards.
Travel Rewards & Eco-friendly
| Issuer | American Express |
| Payment Gateway | AMEX |
| Credit Score | Good-Excellent |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Regular APR | 21.24%–29.24% |
| Sign-up Bonus | 40,000 Membership Rewards points after $3,000 spent in 6 months |
| Best For | Travelers Environmentally Conscious |
The American Express® Green Card, issued by American Express, offers rewards on everyday purchases and travel. Its best feature is the Membership Rewards program, providing valuable points for various expenses.
The card has an annual fee of $150. Unique features include access to the Green Collection rewards and a required credit score of 700+. The referral program offers bonus Membership Rewards points.
Key Features:
- Travel Rewards
- Good rewards on transit expenses
- Eco-Friendly
Reward Rate:
- 3x points on travel & transit
- 3x points on dining worldwide
Other Information:
- Cash advance fee of 5% or $10
- No Foreign Transaction Fee
Pros & Cons of American Express Green Card
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Low annual fee ($150) | Fewer premium travel perks |
| 3x points on travel & dining | Provides no major travel credits |
| No foreign transaction fees | It has a lower welcome bonus |
Expert Advice:
Use this card for regular commuting and travel fees to earn the most points. Transfer points to airline partners for the most redemption value. This card is ideal for value-oriented but frequent travelers who need a mix of rewards and value.
4. American Express Business Platinum Card
This card is for business travelers and earns 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel. It also offers premium benefits like lounge access, airline fee credits, and a 35% airline rebate on Pay with Points redemptions, making it ideal for corporate jet-setters.
Business Travel
| Issuer | American Express |
| Payment Gateway | AMEX |
| Credit Score | Excellent |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Regular APR | 19.24% – 27.24% |
| Sign-up Bonus | 120,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $15,000 in the first 3 months |
| Best For | Business Owners Frequent Travelers |
Reserved for high-net-worth individuals, this card offers elite travel benefits, including access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide. Holders enjoy exclusive concierge services and premium hotel perks. Applicants typically require an excellent credit score and significant income to qualify.
The annual fee is $695. Benefits include a flexible spending limit, Membership Rewards® points, and statement credits for travel and lifestyle purchases. There is no preset credit limit, and it includes a robust referral program.
Key Features:
- Business Travel
- Lounge Access
- Expense Management
Reward Rate:
- 5x points on flights and hotels via AMEX Travel
- 1.5x points on eligible business purchases
Other Information:
- Cash advance fee of 5% or $10
Pros & Cons of American Express Business Platinum Card
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extensive business travel benefits | High annual fee ($695) |
| 5x points on flights & hotels | Requires excellent credit |
| High annual travel credits | Limited benefits for non-business use |
Expert Advice:
Use this card for business travel fees to earn maximum rewards. Leverage airline rebates and statement credits to save on expenses. For everyday expenses, use an Amex business cashback card, and for air travel and hotel bookings, use this card.
5. American Express Business Gold Card
The Amex Business Gold Card rewards 4X points in two categories: airfare and gas stations. This is ideal for businesses with variable travel expenses. It lacks premium benefits but has an ideal high earning rate for businesses with high travel needs.
Business travel
| Issuer | AMEX |
| Payment Gateway | Amex |
| Credit Score | Good-Excellent |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Regular APR | 21.24%–29.24% |
| Sign-up Bonus | 70,000 points after spending $10,000 in 3 months |
| Best For | Small Business Entrepreneurs |
Designed for high-spending business owners, the American Express® Business Gold Card offers 4X Membership Rewards points on the two highest spending categories each billing cycle (on up to $150,000 annually). Categories include advertising, gas, restaurants, and travel, making it ideal for businesses looking to maximize rewards.
This card has a $375 annual fee and requires a good to excellent credit score. The credit limit is flexible, as it operates on a pay-in-full model with spending power that adjusts based on usage. Benefits include travel insurance, extended warranties, and purchase protection.
Key Features:
- Business Rewards
- Travel Benefits
- Flexible Bonus Categories
Reward Rate:
- 4x points on top 2 spending categories (gas, travel, dining, ads, etc.)
Other Information:
- No Foreign Transaction Fee
Pros & Cons of American Express Business Gold Card
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Flexible rewards on business expenses | High annual fee ($295) |
| 4x points on top spending categories | No travel credits |
| No preset spending limit | No airport lounge access |
Expert Advice:
Review your business expenses to maximize 4X category usage. If travel is a high expense, use this card for flights and related bookings. Use this card along with the Business Platinum for lounge access and travel credits while balancing costs.
6. Delta SkyMiles® Gold Amex Card
This card is for Delta travelers and rewards 2X miles on Delta purchases, restaurants, and US supermarkets. Rewards include priority boarding, free checked bags, and in-flight purchase discounts, making it ideal for Delta Airlines loyalists.
Airline and Travel Rewards
| Issuer | American Express |
| Payment Gateway | AMEX |
| Credit Score | Good-Excellent |
| Intro APR | 0% for 12 months |
| Regular APR | 20.24%–29.99% |
| Sign-up Bonus | 40,000 Delta SkyMiles after $2,000 spent in 6 months |
| Best For | Frequent Flyers Delta Loyalists |
The Delta SkyMiles® Gold Amex Card, issued by American Express, offers rewards on Delta Air Lines purchases and travel. Its best feature is the 2x miles on Delta purchases, providing significant value for frequent flyers.
The card has an annual fee of $99. Unique features include 2x miles on Delta purchases and a required credit score of 680+. The referral program offers bonus Membership Rewards points.
Key Features:
- Airline Rewards
- Travel Rewards
- No Foreign Transaction Fee
Reward Rate:
- 2x miles on Delta purchases
- 2x miles on restaurants & U.S. supermarkets
Other Information:
- Cash advance fee of 5% or $10
Pros & Cons of Delta SkyMiles® Gold Amex Card
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Free first checked bag | Limited use outside Delta |
| 2x miles on Delta purchases | No airport lounge access |
| No foreign transaction fees | Annual fee after first year |
Expert Advice:
If you frequent Delta travel, this card quickly reimburses bag fees and rewards miles. Upgrade to the Platinum or Reserve variant to enjoy more premium benefits, such as companion passes and quick Medallion® status qualification.
7. The Platinum Card® for Schwab
This version of the Amex Platinum Card includes all regular travel benefits like 5X points on air travel and premium lounge access but also lets you spend points like cash into a Schwab brokerage account, offering travelers investment flexibility.
Investment Reward & Luxury Travel
| Issuer | American Express |
| Payment Gateway | AMEX |
| Credit Score | Excellent |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Regular APR | 21.24%–29.24% |
| Sign-up Bonus | 80,000 Membership Rewards points after $8,000 spent in 6 months |
| Best For | High-Net-Worth Investors Frequent Travelers |
The Charles Schwab American Express Platinum Card is exclusively for Charles Schwab clients, offering Membership Rewards points on purchases. Issued by American Express, it provides premium travel and entertainment benefits.
The card has an annual fee of $695 and offers 5X Membership Rewards points on flights and hotels. The credit limit is high, and a good credit score is required. It also includes a referral program and travel insurance.
Key Features:
- Investment Rewards
- Luxury Travel
- Concierge Services
Reward Rate:
- 5x points on flights via Amex Travel
- $200 airline fee credit
Other Information:
- No Foreign Transaction Fee
- Cash advance fee of 5% or $10
Pros & Cons The Platinum Card® for Schwab
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Corporate travel perks | Limited personal use benefits |
| Travel expense management tools | No lounge access |
| No preset spending limit | Basic reward structure |
Expert Advice:
This card is ideal for investors and frequent travelers. Use rewards to travel when the exchange rate is favorable, or use rewards to diversify your investments. Combine it with an Amex Gold Card for dining rewards.
8. American Express Corporate Green Card
A solid entry-level corporate card, the Amex Corporate Green Card rewards Membership Rewards® points on business travel and expenses. Though it lacks premium benefits, it offers spending control and reporting features for companies managing employee travel costs.
Corporate Travel & Expense Management
| Issuer | American Express |
| Payment Gateway | AMEX |
| Credit Score | Business Credit |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Regular APR | Varies |
| Sign-up Bonus | N/A |
| Best For | Large Enterprises Corporate Employees |
The American Express Corporate Green Card is a corporate travel card issued by American Express. It offers 3X points on airfare and hotel purchases and 1X points on other eligible business expenses. Its best feature is the complimentary access to the American Express Business Centurion Lounge, which provides a comfortable space for business travelers.
The card has an annual fee of $95. It offers a unique feature of a $100 annual airline fee credit. The credit limit varies, and a good credit score is required. There is also a referral program that rewards cardholders for referring friends and family.
Key Features:
- Corporate Travel
- No Foreign Transaction Fee
- Expense Management
Reward Rate:
- 2x points on Amex Travel
- 1x points on other purchases
Other Information:
- Cash advance fee of 5% or $10
Pros & Cons of American Express Corporate Green Card
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High-level travel perks | Very high annual fee |
| Airport lounge access | Requires corporate approval |
| Exclusive concierge services | Not ideal for personal spending |
Expert Advice:
This card is ideal for companies that need a simple yet effective travel rewards program. Pair it with a premium Amex corporate card to maximize travel benefits. Have employees use it for flights and hotels to accumulate rewards to the maximum.
9. American Express Corporate Platinum Card
A premium corporate card offers premium travel benefits like access to Centurion Lounges, the highest level of hotel status, and airline fee credits. It allows executives and frequent business travelers to enjoy a hassle-free, premium travel experience.
Luxury Travel & Concierge Services
| Issuer | American Express |
| Payment Gateway | AMEX |
| Credit Score | Business Credit |
| Intro APR | N/A |
| Regular APR | Varies |
| Sign-up Bonus | N/A |
| Best For | Large Enterprises Senior Executives |
The American Express Corporate Platinum Card caters to senior executives and seasoned travelers. Issued by American Express, it provides premium business travel benefits, including access to airport lounges and travel rewards.
With an annual fee of $595, the card offers Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status and exclusive experiences on business stays. The credit limit is high, and a good credit score is required. It also includes a referral program and travel insurance.
Key Features:
- Luxury Travel
- Concierge Services
- Lounge Access
Reward Rate:
- 5x points on flights & hotels via Amex Travel
- Complimentary Priority Pass & Centurion Lounge access
Other Information:
- No Foreign Transaction Fee
- Cash advance fee of 5% or $10
Pros & Cons of American Express Corporate Platinum Card
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Schwab cash-out option | High annual fee |
| Premium travel benefits | Requires Schwab account |
| 5x points on flights | Limited travel insurance benefits |
Expert Advice:
Companies should utilize this card to save on travel costs through lounge access and airline benefits. Use it with an Amex Corporate Green Card for a two-tiered travel rewards program, assigning the Platinum to high-traveling executives and the Green to low-traveling employees.
Comparison Table
| S.No. | Name of the Card | Payment Gateway | Best For | Credit Score | Annual Fee | Intro APR | Balance Transfer | Sign In Bonus | Decision Criteria |
| 1 | American Express Platinum Card | Amex | Premium travel perks, lounge access | Excellent (700+) | $695 | None | 21.24% – 29.24% (variable) | 80,000 points after spending $6,000 in 6 months | Best for frequent travelers seeking luxury benefits |
| 2 | American Express Gold Card | Amex | Dining and travel rewards | Good – Excellent (700+) | $250 | None | 21.24% – 29.24% (variable) | 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in 6 months | Best for dining and travel spending |
| 3 | American Express Green Card | Amex | Budget-friendly travel rewards | Good – Excellent (670+) | $150 | None | 21.24% – 29.24% (variable) | 40,000 points after spending $2,000 in 6 months | Best for travelers looking for a low-fee option |
| 4 | Amex Business Platinum Card | Amex | Business travel perks | Excellent (700+) | $695 | None | 19.24% – 27.24% (variable) | 120,000 points after spending $15,000 in 3 months | Best for high-spending business travelers |
| 5 | Amex Business Gold Card | Amex | Business rewards, flexible spending | Good – Excellent (700+) | $295 | None | 19.24% – 27.24% (variable) | 70,000 points after spending $10,000 in 3 months | Best for business owners with diverse expenses |
| 6 | Delta SkyMiles® Gold Amex Card | Amex | Delta airline rewards | Good – Excellent (670+) | $0 intro, then $99 | 0% for 12 months | 20.24% – 29.24% (variable) | 40,000 miles after spending $2,000 in 6 months | Best for Delta loyalists looking for travel perks |
| 7 | Amex Corporate Green Card | Amex | Corporate travel perks | Corporate Approval | Varies | None | Varies | Corporate sign-up bonus | Best for corporate travel management |
| 8 | Amex Corporate Platinum Card | Amex | Executive-level travel benefits | Corporate Approval | Varies | None | Varies | Corporate sign-up bonus | Best for executives with extensive travel needs |
| 9 | The Platinum Card® for Schwab | Amex | Schwab investment rewards | Excellent (700+) | $695 | None | 21.24% – 29.24% (variable) | 80,000 points after spending $6,000 in 6 months | Best for Schwab clients wanting investment perks |
Methodology
The choice of the appropriate American Express (Amex) credit cards for travel is based on a radical evaluation of numerous key factors: the rewards application, travel-related bonuses, annual charges, eligibility requirements, and personal experience. Cards were evaluated primarily based on their capacity to provide perks like airport lounge access, travel credit, miles accumulation, and insurance coverage.
This ensures that travelers can maximize their rewards, enjoy exclusive perks, and get cost for his or her spending. Each card was compared to others in phrases of travel blessings and how well it meets the wishes of common and low travelers.
Choosing the Best American Express Card for Travel
When choosing the right American Express card for travel, consider the following criteria:
- Rewards Program: Look for credit cards that provide excessive factors consistent with dollars spent on tours and eating.
- Travel Benefits: Cards with perks such as airport lounge access, height of entry, journey insurance, and lodge upgrades can offer considerable fees.
- Annual Fees: While premium credit cards often have excessive annual charges, they generally provide large journey rewards and benefits in return.
- Miles Redemption: Consider how, without problems, you may redeem your factors for flights, motel stays, or different travel-related charges.
- More Perks: Other credit cards offer perks such as compensation for global entry, concierge service, or free checked bags.
Why do you need a credit card for travel?
There are numerous advantages you get with a tour credit card:
- Travel Rewards Earning: Credit cards for travel come up with points or miles for any tour you buy so that you can redeem those miles on your destiny journeys.
- Access to Exclusive Perks: Travel credit cards regularly include airport lounge access, travel credit, and concierge services, which can greatly enhance your travel experience.
- Travel Insurance: Many journey credit cards offer coverage for trip cancellations, misplaced bags, and emergency medical help, offering peace of thoughts in the course of the journey.
- Flexibility: Using a credit card for travel associated prices is a stable way to earn rewards and construct credit even as credit premium benefits.
Does American Express offer Credit Cards for Travel?
Yes, American Express offers an extensive choice of credit cards designed especially for travel, including the American Express Platinum Card, the American Express Gold Card, and the Delta SkyMiles® series. These cards provide unique journey bonuses, including lounge access, miles accumulation, tour credits, and access to airline partnerships. They also offer better income fees on journey and dining purchases.
How Do American Express Credit Cards Help in Travel?
American Express credit cards assist tourists by way of presenting:
- Reward Points: Amex credit cards allow cardholders to earn factors for each purchase, particularly on tour-associated expenses like flights, motels, and dining.
- Travel Benefits: Many Amex cards provide airport lounge access, concierge services, lodge improvements, and travel credit, which enhance the tour experience.
- Insurance Coverage: Amex credit cards frequently include trip protection, bag coverage, and car and apartment insurance, which adds layers of safety while traveling.
- Redemption Flexibility: Points earned via Amex credit cards may be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, or even statement credits to cover tour charges.
Advantages of Capital One Credit Cards for Cashback
- High Rewards on Travel: Many Amex cards offer high rewards for travel-related purchases, such as flights, hotels, and automobile leases.
- Luxury Perks: Cards, just like the Platinum Card, offer entry to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, resort status enhancements, and global concierge services.
- Comprehensive Insurance: Amex journey credit cards often include many tour protections, such as ride cancellation, lost baggage, and travel accident insurance.
- Partner Programs: American Express offers big partner packages with airlines and inns, allowing cardholders to switch their points to common flyer packages for even greater flexibility.
FAQs
Which Amex Credit Card is best for flight points?
The American Express Platinum Card and American Express Gold Card are exceptional options for the best flight points. The Platinum Card gives 5x points on flights booked without delay with Airways, while the Gold Card gives 3x points for eating and 2x points on flights booked directly with Airways. Both credit cards also allow you to switch your points to numerous frequent flyer programs for a more advantageous price.
Is Airport Lounge free with American Express?
Yes, many American Express credit cards, especially the American Express Platinum Card, provide complimentary admission to Priority Pass and Centurion Lounges. This advantage allows cardholders to experience unique, cushy lounge spaces at international airports.
How much is 50000 Amex points worth?
The price of 50,000 Amex points can vary depending on how you redeem them. On average, they’re worth approximately $500 when redeemed for travel via the Amex Travel Portal. However, you could regularly get extra value by using moving factors to airline or resort partners, wherein points may be worth over $1,000, depending on the redemption.
Do Amex points expire?
No, Amex Membership Rewards points do not expire as long as your account is open and in good status. However, if your account is closed or you fail to meet the cardholder agreement, you may lose your factors.
Is Amex Gold worth it?
The Amex Gold Card is considered a brilliant fee for common diners and tourists. It offers 4x points on dining at restaurants, such as takeout, and 3x points on flights booked at once with airlines. With a reasonable annual rate and great rewards on ordinary purchases, it’s worth thinking about for folks who want to maximize dining rewards and journey factors.
Who is eligible for an Amex Gold card?
To qualify for the Amex Gold Card, candidates typically want a good to excellent credit score (around seven hundred or higher). Eligibility also depends on your economic scenario, along with profits and debt-to-earnings ratio. The Amex Gold Card is a famous choice for those looking to earn rewards for eating and going on tours.