Amex Gold vs. Platinum: Your Ultimate Travel Companion

When it comes to choosing the perfect travel companion, the American Express® Gold Card and The Platinum Card® from American Express are two standout options. Both cards offer a range of benefits and rewards, but which one is the best fit for your next trip? Let's dive into the details and help you make an informed decision.



Earning Rates: Amex Gold vs. Platinum

The American Express® Gold Card and The Platinum Card® from American Express both offer competitive earning rates for travel purchases, but the Platinum Card has an edge when it comes to flights and prepaid hotels booked through American Express Travel.

* Amex Gold:
+ 4 points per dollar at restaurants worldwide (up to $50,000 per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar)
+ 4 points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar)
+ 3 points per dollar on airfare purchased directly from the airline or through amextravel.com
* Amex Platinum:
+ 5 points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or via American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar)
+ 5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel



Travel Benefits: Amex Gold vs. Platinum

When it comes to travel benefits, The Platinum Card® from American Express offers more luxurious and exclusive perks compared to the American Express® Gold Card.

* Airport Lounge Access:
+ Amex Platinum: Complimentary access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide, including American Express Centurion lounges, Delta Sky Clubs, and Priority Pass lounges.
+ Amex Gold: No airport lounge access.
* Hotel Benefits:
+ Amex Platinum: Up to $200 in annual hotel credits for prepaid bookings of two nights or more at Fine Hotels & Resorts or The Hotel Collection, plus an average of $600 in free benefits, such as daily breakfast for two and room upgrades, at Fine Hotels & Resorts.
+ Amex Gold: Up to $100 in annual hotel credits for prepaid bookings of two nights or more at The Hotel Collection.
* Car Rental Benefits:
+ Amex Platinum: Automatic elite status with car rental companies like Avis, Hertz, and National, which includes free upgrades, expedited service, and guaranteed car availability.
+ Amex Gold: No car rental benefits.
* Travel Insurance:
+ Amex Platinum: Cell phone protection up to $800 per claim, or $1,600 (two claims) per 12-month period, with a $50 deductible.
+ Amex Gold: No cell phone protection.



Annual Fees and Value: Amex Gold vs. Platinum

While The Platinum Card® from American Express has a higher annual fee of $695 compared to the American Express® Gold Card's $325, the additional benefits and credits often outweigh the difference in cost for frequent travelers.

* Airport Lounge Access: $1,400+ in potential savings per year
* Airline Fee Credit: Up to $200 per calendar year
* Hotel Credits: Up to $200 per calendar year
* Uber Cash: Up to $200 per calendar year (compared to Amex Gold's $120)

Considering the airport lounge access, airline fee credit, hotel credits, and higher Uber Cash, The Platinum Card® from American Express offers more value for frequent travelers, despite its higher annual fee.

In conclusion, if you're a frequent traveler looking for a premium travel companion, The Platinum Card® from American Express is the clear choice. Its higher earning rates, luxurious travel benefits, and overall value make it an excellent investment for your next trip. However, if you're a casual traveler or prefer a more affordable option, the American Express® Gold Card may be more suitable for your needs.