Like some, I initially balked at paying a $695 annual fee (see rates and fees) for The Platinum Card® from American Express, but with its vast array of benefits and rewards, this card drew me in — and I don't regret it.
As a cardmember for over two years, I have leveraged this pricey card to my advantage, jumping on the valuable perks it grants its customers. Though I do not love paying the high annual fee, I am unwilling to part with the benefits of this card.
From zipping through airport security lines to treating myself to complimentary Starbucks each month, here's why the Amex Platinum reigns supreme in my eyes.
As someone who regularly runs through the airport and is nail-bitingly close to missing my flight, the Amex Platinum card has offered me a stress-free experience through security. Though I already have TSA PreCheck, those lines have seemingly become increasingly longer in recent years.
The Amex Platinum offers cardmembers up to $189 in statement credits on a Clear Plus annual membership. Enrollment required.
You've probably seen the Clear stands next to security lines at major airports and wondered what it was — I know I did. This membership is a fast-track way to the front of the TSA line.
Plus, since I also have TSA PreCheck, I can move to the front of the PreCheck line, therefore combining both perks of Clear Plus and PreCheck. But don't worry, even if you don't have PreCheck, you will still get to the front of the regular security line — you will just have to take your shoes off.
While Clear is not offered at every airport, my home airports Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), thankfully have them.
Therefore, for most flights, I am no longer playing a guessing game on if I need to arrive at the airport two hours ahead of my flight. With my Clear and PreCheck benefits, I can usually get through airport security in under 10 minutes.
Related: How to maximize benefits with the Amex Platinum
Who doesn't love money toward their Uber ride-hailing or food-delivery purchases? With this card, I get up to $200 annually in Uber Cash, valid on Uber rides and Uber Eats orders in the U.S.
Each month, a $15 credit (plus a $20 bonus in December) is added to my Uber Cash account.
I tend to use my Uber credit to pay for a few Starbucks drinks each month. Basically, I'm fully embracing the "treat yourself" mantra.
If you have not been welcomed to the world of airport lounges, let me introduce you to this game-changing perk. You will no longer have to sit on the uncomfortable seats in your terminal, observing the chaos around you.
The Amex Platinum gives you access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, including Priority Pass, Plaza
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