If you’re in the military and looking for a premium travel card with no annual fee, the American Express Platinum should be on your radar. Normally, this card carries a hefty $695 annual fee, but thanks to the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) and the Military Lending Act (MLA), eligible active-duty military members can get that fee waived—meaning you get all the luxury perks for free.
Here’s why this card is a game-changer for service members:
Cash
- Airport Lounge Access – Get into Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta)
- Priority Pass lounges, and over 1,400 other locations worldwide for free. No more waiting in crowded airport gates. (TIER 2 – Not the best Credit Card for the Priority Pass)
- $200 Airline Fee Credit – Get $200 in statement credits per year for baggage fees, seat upgrades, and other incidental airline charges (enrollment required).
- $200 Uber Cash – Get $15 in Uber Cash each month ($35 in December) for rides or Uber Eats.
- $240 Digital Entertainment Credit – Covers subscriptions like Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, Peacock, SiriusXM, and The New York Times ($20 per month, enrollment required).
- $200 Hotel Credit – Book a Fine Hotels & Resorts or The Hotel Collection stay through AMEX Travel and receive $200 back annually.
- $100 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Credit – Get reimbursed for your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee, making airport security a breeze.5X Points on Flights & Hotels – Earn 5X Membership Rewards points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or through AMEX Travel, and prepaid hotels booked via AMEX Travel.
- Walmart+ Membership – Enjoy free shipping, free grocery delivery, and gas discounts at Walmart locations.
- $300 Equinox Credit – Get $25 per month toward Equinox gym memberships or the Equinox+ app.
Points
- 5X Points on Flights & Hotels – Earn 5X Membership Rewards points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or through AMEX Travel, and prepaid hotels booked via AMEX Travel.
Status
- Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy & Hilton Honors Gold Status – Get elite hotel benefits like room upgrades, late checkout, and extra points with these hotel programs.
- Rental Car Status:
- Not Great Booking with USAA is Better
- Hertz President’s Circle Status – Skip the counter, choose any car in the President’s Circle lot, and enjoy free guaranteed upgrades.
- National Emerald Club Executive Status – Walk right to the Executive Aisle, pick any car (including premium models), and get complimentary upgrades.
- Avis Preferred Plus Status – Enjoy free vehicle upgrades, priority service, and better rental rates with Avis.
- Not Great Booking with USAA is Better
Perks
- Premium Car Rental Protection – Opt-in for primary rental car coverage starting at $12.25 per rental (not per day) in the U.S. and $15.95 per rental abroad. Covers damage, theft, and accidental injury up to $100,000 without affecting your personal auto insurance. (Enrollment required.)
Final Thoughts
If you’re active-duty military, the AMEX Platinum is a must-have travel card that delivers luxury and convenience for free. From premium rental car perks and airport lounge access to elite hotel status and hundreds in travel credits, this card transforms the way you travel—whether it’s for TDYs, PCS moves, or personal trips.
With no annual fee under SCRA/MLA, you’re getting over $1,500 in annual value without spending a dime. Whether you’re renting a car, booking a flight, or staying at a hotel, the AMEX Platinum ensures you travel in comfort and style.
If you’re in the military and don’t have this card yet, you’re leaving money and perks on the table. Apply today and travel like a VIP—for free.
#MilitaryTravel #AMEXPlatinum #NoFeeForMilitary
