Amex Travel is American Express’s online booking platform where cardholders can book flights, hotels, cars, and cruises. Unlike a typical travel site, it gives you the option to pay in cash, redeem Membership Rewards points, or use a combination of both. Depending on the card you hold, the portal also unlocks exclusive benefits such as Fine Hotels + Resorts, The Hotel Collection, Insider Fares, and the International Airline Program.
Who Can Use It?
Any American Express cardholder can access Amex Travel, but the real value lies in having a Membership Rewards-earning card like the Amex Gold, Platinum, or Business Platinum. These cards let you redeem points, see Insider Fares, and receive annual credits tied to Amex Travel bookings. Without one, you can still use the portal, but you’ll miss out on the best perks.
Redeeming Membership Rewards Points
When redeeming points, the value depends on what you book. Flights typically redeem at one cent per point, so 50,000 points equals about $500 in airfare. Hotels, cars, and cruises usually redeem at around 0.7 cents per point, making them less valuable options. Redemptions require a minimum of 5,000 points, but you can mix points and cash for flexibility. If you want maximum return on points, transferring to airline partners is often better, but Amex Travel offers simplicity and guaranteed availability, which is useful when award flights aren’t an option.
Insider Fares for Extra Savings
Amex Travel also offers Insider Fares, which are discounted flight prices available only to Membership Rewards cardholders. These reduced rates appear when you log in and often require enough points to cover the full booking. While not every flight qualifies, the savings can be significant and worth checking before you confirm a ticket.
Business Platinum 35% Rebate
The Business Platinum Card makes Amex Travel even more rewarding. When you pay with points for eligible flights, you receive 35% of your points back, effectively boosting their value to about 1.54 cents each. However, a major change arrives on September 18, 2025: the rebate will only apply to flights on your chosen qualifying airline, and premium cabin tickets on other airlines will no longer qualify. Business travelers who rely on this perk should maximize it before the new rules take effect.
Fine Hotels + Resorts (FHR) Benefits
For Platinum cardholders, Fine Hotels + Resorts adds luxury perks to prepaid hotel bookings. These include daily breakfast for two, guaranteed 4 pm late checkout, property credits (often $100), complimentary Wi-Fi, and room upgrades when available. The combined value can easily reach several hundred dollars. U.S. Platinum cardholders also receive up to $200 back in statement credits each year for prepaid FHR or The Hotel Collection bookings, and this benefit applies even if you use points.
The Hotel Collection (THC) Perks
The Hotel Collection is another Amex Travel option, offering benefits such as a $100 property credit and potential upgrades. It does require a minimum two-night stay, but it’s a good choice for mid-luxury hotels where FHR is not available.
International Airline Program (IAP) Discounts
Another strong feature is the International Airline Program, available to Platinum and Business Platinum members. It offers discounted fares on premium economy, business, and first-class tickets with selected airlines. Savings vary but can be significant, especially on long-haul flights where premium cabins are costly.
Booking Policies and Considerations
It’s important to understand the fine print when booking through Amex Travel. Refundability depends on the specific rate or fare selected, and discounted options may be nonrefundable. Unlike some travel agencies, Amex does not openly offer price matching, so it’s always smart to compare fares directly with the airline or hotel. Taxes and fees remain payable even when using points. If you’re booking outside the U.S., redemption values and eligibility can differ due to exchange rates and local policies.
When Amex Travel Makes Sense
Amex Travel shines when you want simple, cash-like redemptions for flights, especially if you want to earn miles. It’s also a great option for unlocking FHR or Hotel Collection perks that can easily offset rate differences. Business Platinum users benefit from the 35% rebate until the rules change in September 2025. The portal is also worth using when Insider Fares or International Airline Program discounts appear, offering savings you can’t get elsewhere.
Real-Life Examples
Imagine booking a weekend getaway at a Fine Hotels + Resorts property. The free breakfast, late checkout, and $100 dining credit can turn a short trip into a luxurious escape. For an international work trip, combining the International Airline Program with the Business Platinum rebate can save both points and money. And if you’re flying during peak holiday travel when award space is scarce, Insider Fares combined with Pay with Points gives you guaranteed seats without overpaying.
Final Thoughts
Amex Travel is more than just another booking site it’s a tool that adds real value when used wisely. It may not always deliver the highest point redemptions, but the convenience, unique perks, and exclusive discounts make it a valuable option for American Express cardholders. With the right strategy balancing point transfers, cash fares, Insider Fares, and Platinum-specific perks you can maximize both your rewards and your travel experience.
