The competition is heating up as credit card companies want to be the ONE that you choose, and in the face of rising airline costs and fees, a lot of the companies are trying to help you save on travel by offering perks that will save you money on travel as well as allow you the experience of a frequent flier. From offsetting pesky baggage fees to more creative ways to redeem points/miles, card companies are committed to staking a prime position in your wallet. As flight delays, endless airport lines and mounting incidental travel fees become the norm, American Express is adding three new international travel benefits to its Platinum Card to make travel abroad more enjoyable and less stressful.
According to Amex these new benefits make the Platinum Card as a smart choice for travelers looking to get more value for their money and time, at home and abroad. U.S. consumer and small business Card members can enroll and learn more about the following new benefits
Priority Pass™ Select – Card members can now take a break from the chaotic airport terminals with the help of Priority Pass Select, which provides access to more than 600 international airport lounges in more than 100 countries and more than 300 cities worldwide. After enrolling in the program at americanexpress.com/transformtravel, Card members will receive their Priority Pass Select card in the mail and can begin enjoying the relaxing ambience of the lounges that include a variety of benefits such as complimentary refreshments, snacks and internet access. This new international travel benefit extends the already robust airport lounge program that provides access into domestic airport club lounges for American Airlines Admirals Club®, Delta Sky ClubTM and US Airways® Club.
$100 Global Entry Credit – The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) offers a program called Global Entry that allows approved members expedited clearance and the ability to bypass lines at International Arrivals in major U.S. airports when returning from traveling abroad. Card members who apply and pay the application fee of $100 with their Platinum Card will receive a statement credit. And once the application is approved, the membership will be valid for five years.
Elimination of Foreign Currency Transaction Fees – Platinum Card members can now shop like locals no matter what country they are visiting. Effective immediately, Card members will not be charged the 2.7 percent foreign currency transaction fees on international purchases when they use their Platinum Card.
This is all in addition to the new travel benefits American Express Platinum launched at the end of last year, which includes an annual $200 airline fee credit, which can apply to baggage fees, flight change fees, in-flight food and airport lounge day passes.
Michele says
Wow, all of these benefits seem great for travelers! The priority pass select is a perfect benefit for travelers that are stressed from the everyday hassles of airports. The elimination of foreign currency transaction fees is also a huge benefit for travelers.