American Express offers a variety of credit cards, including the Platinum Card® from American Express, the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card, the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card, and the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card. These cards are particularly beneficial for frequent travelers, as they come with a range of valuable perks and rewards. Some of the key benefits include waived international transaction fees, sign-up bonuses, trip delay insurance, car rental loss and damage insurance, baggage insurance plan, lounge access, and many more.
Summary TLDR
Top 4 American Express Credit Cards for Frequent Travellers [2025]
| S. No. | Name of American Express Credit Cards for Frequent Travellers | Best Known & Value for |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | The Platinum Card® from American Express | Best American Express Travel Credit Card Known For Travel Rewards |
| 2. | Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card | Best American Express Travel Credit Card Known For Delta Flyers |
| 3. | Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card | Best American Express Travel Credit Card Known For Frequent Flyers |
| 4. | Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card | Best American Express Travel Credit Card Known For Business Travelers |
Best American Express Credit Cards for Frequent Travellers [March 2025]
1. The Platinum Card® from American Express
The American Express Platinum Card® stands out as a premium option, offering numerous features and an attractive welcome bonus. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers as it provides a wide range of rewards, extensive airport lounge access, elite status perks, and much more.
Travel Card
- Issuer – American Express
- Payment Gateway – AMEX
- Credit Score – Excellent
- Intro APR – N/A
- Regular APR – 21.24%–29.24%
- Annual Fee – $695
- International Transaction Fee – No International Transaction Fee
- Cash Advance Fee – 5% or $10
- Balance Transfer APR – N/A
- 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 $695 plus applicable taxes. Unique features include access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection and a renewal benefit. The required credit score is 750+. The referral program offers additional Membership Rewards points.
| Key Features | Reward Rate | Other Information |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Rewards | 5x points on flights booked via Amex Travel | Pay Over Time lets you carry a balance with interest up to your limit. |
| Lifestyle & Shopping Rewards | 5x points on prepaid hotels booked via Amex Travel | Plan It® allows you to split large purchases into equal monthly installments with a fixed fee. |
| Global Lounge Access | 1x points on other purchases | – |
| $155 Walmart+ Credit | – | – |
| Hilton Honors Gold & Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status | – | – |
| $200 Uber Cash | – | – |
| $200 Airline Fee Credit | – | – |
| Membership Rewards® Program – Transfer Points | – | – |
| Trip Delay Insurance | – | – |
| Premium Car Rental Status with Hertz, Avis, and National | – | – |
Pros & Cons:
Pros
- Provides rewards on bonus categories
- Offers reward points on prepaid hotels
- Membership reward points on prepaid hotels
- Membership reward points on flight purchases
Pros
- Complicated rewards
- Requires good/excellent credit
- Lounge access is limited to domestic lounges
Expert Advice
The American Express Platinum Card® is an excellent choice for individuals who frequently spend on travel. Its premium features are especially beneficial for regular travelers. Cardholders can enjoy a variety of rewards, including travel points for booking hotels and flights, global lounge access, lifestyle and shopping rewards, and more. It also provides an annual travel credit of around $200 each year.
2. Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Platinum Card stands out as a premium option, offering numerous features and an attractive welcome bonus. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers as it provides a wide range of rewards, extensive airport lounge access, elite status perks, and much more.
Travel Card
- Issuer – American Express
- Payment Gateway – AMEX
- Credit Score – Good-Excellent
- Intro APR – 0% for 12 months
- Regular APR – 19.99% to 28.99% (Variable on Purchases)
- Annual Fee – $0 for 1st year, then $150
- International Transaction Fee – No Foreign Transaction Fee
- Cash Advance Fee – 5% or $10
- Balance Transfer APR – 20.24%–29.99%
- Sign-up Bonus – 80,000 Delta SkyMiles after $3,000 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+. Referral program offers bonus Membership Rewards points.
| Key Features | Reward Rate | Other Information |
|---|---|---|
| Airline Rewards | 2x miles on Delta purchases | You can get an Additional Card for anyone who shops for you. |
| Travel Rewards | 2x miles on Dining | Flexible payments without typical credit card fees through send & split® which allows to send money and split purchases with Venmo and PayPal users through the American Express® App. |
| First Checked Bag Free | 2x miles at Groceries | – |
| $100 Delta Stays Credit | 1x miles Per Dollar On Other Purchases | – |
| 20% Back on In-flight Purchases | – | – |
| Baggage Insurance Plan | – | – |
| Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance | – | – |
Pros & Cons:
Pros
- No international transaction fees for overseas travel and purchases.
- Check the first bag for free on Delta and up to eight companions.
- Enjoy extended warranty coverage and purchase protection.
Pros
- Does not provide lounge access which can be disappointing for frequent travelers.
- Redeeming Delta SkyMiles for gift cards, merchandise, cruises, car rentals, and hotel rooms provides a lower return per mile.
Expert Advice
The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Platinum Card is a fantastic option for frequent travelers. It provides a variety of airline and travel rewards, along with 20% back on in-flight purchases which makes it a valuable companion for your journeys. Additional perks include the first checked bag free, a $100 Delta Stays credit, baggage insurance coverage, and the option for cardholders to get an extra card for someone who shops on their behalf.
3. Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Amex Card stands out as an outstanding option for frequent travelers and Delta enthusiasts who are looking to earn rewards on their travel expenses. With this card, you can earn points across a variety of categories, such as airlines, dining, and travel, all while enjoying the benefit of no international transaction fees.
Travel Card
- Issuer – American Express
- Payment Gateway – AMEX
- Credit Score – Good-Excellent
- Intro APR – 0% for 12 months
- Regular APR – 19.99% to 28.99% variable APR
- Annual Fee – $350
- International Transaction Fee – No International Transaction Fee
- Cash Advance Fee – 5% or $10
- Balance Transfer APR – 19.99% to 28.99% variable APR
- Sign-up Bonus – 90,000 SkyMiles after $4,000 spent in 6 months
- Best For – Frequent Flyers, Delta Loyalists
The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Amex Card, issued by American Express, offers rewards on Delta Air Lines purchases and travel. Its best feature is the 3x miles on Delta purchases, providing significant value for frequent flyers.
The card has an annual fee of $250. Unique features include 3x miles on Delta purchases and a required credit score of 720+. Referral program offers bonus Membership Rewards points.
| Key Features | Reward Rate | Other Information |
|---|---|---|
| Airline Rewards | 3x miles on Delta purchases | Each year, a Year-End Summary of charges will be provided to review your annual spending. |
| Travel Benefits | 3x miles on hotels booked through Amex Travel | “Plan-It” feature lets you buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) by splitting purchases of $100+ into equal monthly installments with a fixed fee which reduces the burden of one-time payments. |
| Dining Rewards | 2x miles on dining at restaurants, including takeout and delivery in the U.S. | – |
| Groceries Rewards | 2x miles on groceries at U.S. Supermarkets | – |
| $150 Delta Stays Credit | 1x miles per dollar on other purchases | – |
| $120 Rideshare Credit | – | – |
| First Checked Bag Free | – | – |
| 20% Back on In-Flight Purchases | – | – |
| Trip Delay Insurance | – | – |
| Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance | – | – |
| Baggage Insurance Plan | – | – |
Pros & Cons:
Pros
- Earn Medallion Qualification Dollars to achieve Medallion status
- Receive monthly credits and an annual hotel credit
- Get free checked bags, priority boarding, and a companion certificate
Pros
- Rewards redemption is limited to particular airlines.
- No Delta SkyClub lounge access
Expert Advice
The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card is a great choice for individuals who travel frequently and wish to accumulate unlimited rewards and advantages on their travel expenses, which include booking tickets, making hotel reservations and enjoying dining experiences. Cardholders accumulate miles on purchases made directly with Delta Airlines. This card provides a variety of valuable perks, such as one free checked bag, a credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® fees, 20% back on in-flight purchases, access to a complimentary upgrade list, and many additional benefits.
4. Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Amex Card
The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card stands out as an outstanding option for frequent travelers and Delta enthusiasts who are looking to earn rewards on their travel expenses. With this card, you can earn points across a variety of categories, such as airlines, dining, and travel, all while enjoying the benefit of no international transaction fees.
Travel Card
- Issuer – American Express
- Payment Gateway – AMEX
- Credit Score – Excellent
- Intro APR – N/A
- Regular APR – 19.99% to 28.99% variable APR on purchases
- Annual Fee – $650
- International Transaction Fee – No Foreign Transaction Fee
- Cash Advance Fee – 5% or $10
- Balance Transfer APR – N/A
- Sign-up Bonus – 100,000 bonus miles after $6,000 spent in 6 months
- Best For – Frequent Flyers, Business Travelers
The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is a top-tier airline travel card issued by American Express. It offers 3X miles on Delta purchases and 1X miles on all other eligible purchases. Its best feature is the complimentary access to Delta Sky Club®, which allows cardholders to relax before their flights or during connections.
The card has an annual fee of $650. It offers unique benefits like MQD Headstart and MQD Boost, which help cardholders get closer to Delta Medallion Status. 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 | Reward Rate | Other Information |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury Travel | 3x miles on Delta purchases | The “Plan-It” feature allows you to split purchases of $100 or more into equal monthly installments with a fixed fee through buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) which makes it easier to manage payments. |
| Airline Benefits | 1x miles on all other purchases | The send & split® option lets you send money and split purchases with Venmo and PayPal users through the American Express® App, without the typical credit card fees. |
| Delta Sky Club® Access | – | – |
| Lounge Access | – | – |
| $120 Rideshare Credit | – | – |
| Baggage Insurance Plan | – | – |
| 20% Back on In-flight Purchases | – | – |
| Trip Delay Insurance – Premium Cards | – | – |
Pros & Cons:
Pros
- The primary cardholder and up to eight companions can check a bag for free on domestic flights.
- Cardholders have access to Sky Club.
- Cardholders can access Centurion Lounge and Escape Lounge.
Pros
- Some cards offer better rewards than the Delta Reserve card.
- The high annual fee is disappointing since it doesn’t provide Medallion Status or fully utilize the card’s benefits.
- Lacks luxury travel card staples such as annual credits for airfare.
Expert Advice
The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is an excellent option for frequent travelers looking to earn rewards and benefits from their travel expenditures, including luxury travel, airline perks, Delta Sky Club® access, lounge privileges, and more. Cardholders earn miles on purchases made directly with Delta Airlines. This card offers a range of valuable advantages, such as a 20% rebate on in-flight purchases, a $120 Rideshare Credit, a Baggage Insurance Plan, and Trip Delay Insurance for Premium Cards, along with many other benefits.
Table of Comparison
Best American Express Credit Cards for Frequent Travelers
| Name of the Card | The Platinum Card® from American Express | Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card | Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card | Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Payment Gateway | AMEX | AMEX | AMEX | AMEX |
| Best For | Professionals, Frequent Travelers | Frequent Flyers, Delta Loyalists | Frequent Flyers, Delta Loyalists | Frequent Flyers, Business Travelers |
| Credit Score | Excellent | Good-Excellent | Good-Excellent | Excellent |
| Annual Fee | $695 | $0 for 1st year, then $150 | $350 | $650 |
| Annual Percentage Rate | N/A | 0% for 12 months | 0% for 12 months | N/A |
| Regular Annual Percentage Rate | 21.24%–29.24% | 19.99% to 28.99% (Variable) | 19.99% to 28.99% variable APR | 19.99% to 28.99% |
| Balance Transfer | N/A | 20.24%–29.99% | 19.99% to 28.99% | N/A |
| Sign in Bonus | 80,000 Membership Rewards points after $8,000 spent in 6 months | 80,000 Delta SkyMiles after $3,000 spent in 6 months | 90,000 SkyMiles after $4,000 spent in 6 months | 100,000 bonus miles after $6,000 spent in 6 months |
| Decision Criteria | Ideal for professionals who travel frequently and can leverage premium travel benefits and rewards; high annual fee justified by extensive perks. | Best for occasional Delta flyers; low initial fee and significant bonus miles make it appealing for new users or those with moderate travel needs. | Suitable for frequent Delta travelers seeking higher rewards; reasonable annual fee with substantial sign-up bonuses enhances value proposition. | Premium option for business travelers; offers extensive benefits and high rewards potential, but comes with a significant annual fee that should be considered against usage. |
Methodology
Choosing the Best American Express Credit Cards for Frequent Travelers requires a thorough evaluation of card features, benefits, and rewards programs tailored for frequent travelers.
The analysis considers multiple factors, including:
- Travel rewards (earning points/miles)
- Travel perks such as lounge access, airline credits, and free checked bags
- Annual fees and APR
- Sign-up bonuses
The goal is to identify cards that offer maximum value and convenience for frequent travelers by balancing costs with rewards and benefits.
Cards are assessed based on suitability for different traveler types, including:
- Professionals
- Frequent flyers
- Delta loyalists
Credit score requirements are taken into account when evaluating each card.
A comparison of pros and cons is made, considering factors like:
- International transaction fees
- Purchase protection
- Hotel elite status
- Rideshare credits
The final objective is to provide a comprehensive recommendation that helps travelers select the best American Express credit card to:
- Enhance their travel experience
- Maximize rewards and benefits
Does American Express offer Credit Cards for Frequent Travelers?
Yes, American Express offers several credit cards tailored for frequent travelers, with the American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card being a prominent option.
Here are the key features and benefits of this card:
New cardholders receive 10,000 Membership Rewards points, redeemable for vouchers or travel credits, upon paying the annual fee and meeting a minimum spend requirement within the first 90 days.
Cardholders can earn significant rewards for their spending. For example, spending ₹1.90 lakhs in a year can yield travel vouchers or Flipkart vouchers worth over ₹4,500, while spending ₹4 lakhs can earn additional rewards, including Taj Experiences e-Gift Cards worth ₹10,000.
The card provides eight complimentary visits to select airport lounges across India each year, along with a complimentary Priority Pass membership.
Benefits include premium lounge access, free checked bags, priority boarding, and various dining discounts at select restaurants.
Amex cards such as Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card that might charge $0 annual fee for 1st year, then $150.
Choosing the Best American Express Credit Card for Frequent Travelers
- Travel Rewards (Earning Points/Miles): This is a primary reason people get travel cards as it maximizes the value of your spending which turns everyday purchases into travel opportunities. The ability to earn points or miles on purchases, especially travel and dining, allows travelers to accumulate rewards for future trips. The higher the rewards rate, the faster you can earn free travel.
- Annual Fee: Helps determine the overall value of the card. High fees can be worthwhile if the benefits are used, but they should be carefully considered.
- Sign-up Bonus: Travelers should consider a sign-up bonus when choosing a credit card. This offer quickly and substantially accumulates rewards which makes it easier to redeem for travel sooner. A large sign-up bonus provides a significant upfront boost to your rewards balance.
- Travel Perks: It is important to consider whether a card provides travel perks, as they can enhance the travel experience and save money. Airport lounge access offers comfort and amenities during travel. Travel credits offset the annual fee. Elite status (American Express Platinum Card®) provides upgrades and benefits with hotels and rental car companies.
- Reward Redemption Flexibility: It’s important to look at reward redemption processes and how points or miles can be used for various travel expenses such as flights, hotels and rental cars. Some reward programs offer flexibility in how these can be redeemed, while others allow you to transfer points to airline or hotel partners which can sometimes yield greater value.
- Regular APR: While it’s best to pay your balance in full each month, the APR is important if you occasionally carry a balance. Most of these cards have variable APRs ranging from the low 20s to high 20s.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: When traveling internationally, these fees (typically around 3%) can add up quickly. Amex credit cards such as the American Express® Gold Card, do not charge any international transaction fees.
- Other Perks: Things such as Rental Car insurance coverage, Global Entry/TSA Precheck credits, travel insurance and no preset spending limits are things to consider as well.
Why should frequent travelers have American Express credit cards?
American Express credit cards can be a great choice for frequent travelers due to the numerous benefits and perks they offer.
Here’s why:
- Rewards Programs: Many Amex cards offer generous rewards programs tailored to travel, allowing you to earn points or miles on purchases that can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and other travel expenses.
- Travel Insurance: Some Amex cards provide travel insurance benefits such as trip cancellation/interruption insurance, baggage insurance, and car rental loss and damage insurance which provides a peace of mind during your travels.
- Purchase Protection: Amex cards often include purchase protection, covering eligible items against damage or theft for a certain period after purchase, which can be valuable when buying travel-related items.
- Amex Offers: Amex Offers provide cardholders with the opportunity to earn bonus points or cashback on purchases with select merchants, including travel-related businesses, helping you save money on your trips.
- Global Assist Hotline: Amex offers a Global Assist Hotline that provides 24/7 assistance with travel emergencies, medical referrals, and other travel-related issues, offering support wherever you are in the world.
- Access to Airport Lounges: Certain Amex cards, particularly premium ones like the Platinum Card, offer access to exclusive airport lounges worldwide, providing a comfortable and convenient space to relax during layovers or before flights.
Benefits of American Express Credit Card for Frequent Travelers
American Express credit cards can be very useful for frequent travelers due to the various benefits and rewards they offer. It offers various benefits such as travel rewards and points, airport lounge access, hotel benefits, concierge service, and many more benefits that can be valuable for frequent travlers.
- Travel Rewards and Points: Many American Express cards offer rewards points or miles for every dollar spent, which can be redeemed for flights, hotels and other travel expenses. Some cards may also offer bonus points for travel-related purchases.
- Travel Insurance: Certain American Express cards come with travel insurance benefits, such as:
- Reimburses you for non-refundable travel expenses if your trip is canceled or interrupted due to covered reasons.
- Covers lost, stolen, or damaged luggage.
- Provides coverage for damage or theft to a rental car.
- Airport Lounge Access: Some premium American Express cards offer complimentary access to airport lounges which provide a comfortable and convenient space to relax before or between flights.
- Hotel Benefits: American Express partners with various hotels to offer cardholders exclusive benefits such as:
- Room upgrades
- Free breakfast
- Late check-out
- Statement Credits
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Many American Express cards do not charge any international transaction fees, which can save the money of cardholders while making purchases in abroad.
- Purchase Protection: This can protect purchases against accidental damage or theft for a certain period from the date of purchase.
- Concierge Service: Some cards offer a concierge service to the cardholders that can assist with travel arrangements, restaurant reservations and other travel-related needs.
- Amex Offers: These provide opportunities to earn bonus points or cash back for eligible purchases with select merchants, including travel-related businesses.
- Global Assist Hotline: Provides assistance with medical, legal, and travel-related emergencies when you are traveling abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which American Express credit card is best for frequent travelers?
It depends on your spending habits and travel preferences. Cards with high rewards on travel and dining, airport lounge access (such as Amex Platinum), and travel insurance benefits are generally good choices.
Which Amex credit card has the best benefits for travel?
The Amex Platinum card is often cited for its extensive travel benefits such as airport lounge access, hotel perks, and travel insurance. However, it may charge cardholders with a higher annual fee.
What is the most accepted Amex credit card for international travel?
While Visa and Mastercard are generally more widely accepted, Amex acceptance is growing. There isn’t one most accepted, but Amex Platinum or Gold, due to their popularity, are good options.
Does American Express have a loyalty program?
Yes, American Express has a loyalty program called Membership Rewards. Cardholders can earn points on purchases, which can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, gift cards, or statement credits.
Which Amex is best to book flights?
Cards that offer bonus points on airline purchases, such as the Amex Platinum or Gold, are best for booking flights. These cards maximize your rewards earnings on travel expenses.