The Delta American Express Cards: Which One Should You Choose?
Thanks to a request submitted, this blog is a follow-up from my pros and cons on the Delta Reserve Card…
Here we go: If you're anything like me, you probably find yourself daydreaming about your next adventure, whether it’s lounging on a beach, exploring cobblestone streets, or savoring delicious cuisine. And while flights can sometimes break the bank, American Express offers a range of Delta SkyMiles credit cards that can help make your travel dreams a little more attainable. So, let’s take a cozy dive into the different Delta cards and figure out which one might be your perfect match!
Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card
First up, we have the Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card. This card is like that friend who’s always down to go on spontaneous trips without worrying too much about costs. With no annual fee, it’s a fantastic option for casual travelers. You’ll earn 2 miles per dollar spent on Delta purchases and 1 mile per dollar on all other eligible purchases. Plus, the welcome bonus is usually pretty tempting. It’s perfect if you want to dip your toes in the waters of travel rewards without diving deep just yet!
Pros:
No annual fee
Great for occasional travelers
Solid welcome bonus
Cons:
Limited premium perks
Fewer bonus categories compared to other cards
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
Next, we have the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card. If you’re a bit more serious about your travels, this may be a great fit. The annual fee is pretty modest for what you get. This card earns 2 miles per dollar at restaurants and on Delta purchases and 1 mile per dollar on everything else. What’s more, you receive your first checked bag free on Delta flights—an incredible perk that can save you some dough if you travel with luggage! Oh, and you can also earn a welcome bonus that’s sure to add a few miles to your account.
Pros:
First checked bag free
Earn miles on dining, too!
Good welcome bonus
Cons:
Annual fee, though reasonable
Still not the highest tier of perks
Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
Are you someone who really loves to travel and wants to elevate your experience? The Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card might just be calling your name! The annual fee is higher, but the perks might make it worth every penny. You’ll earn 3 miles per dollar on Delta flights, 2 miles at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets, and 1 mile on everything else. It also offers the ability to earn a companion certificate each year on your card anniversary, which means you can take a friend along for the ride at a much lower cost!
Pros:
Companion certificate annually
Higher earning rate on flights
Good mix of benefits
Cons:
Higher annual fee
May not be necessary for infrequent travelers
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
Last but definitely not least is the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card. If you want to fly like royalty, this one’s for you! With a hefty annual fee, it brings some serious perks along with it, including access to Delta Sky Clubs, priority boarding, and even the potential to earn Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs). You’ll earn 3 miles for every dollar spent on Delta purchases and 1 mile on other purchases. The best part? You’ll get a solid welcome bonus, plus a chance to bring a companion along for a sweet, discounted rate once you hit certain spending thresholds.
Pros:
Delta Sky Club access
Premium benefits and perks
Earn MQMs for status qualification
Cons:
High annual fee
More suited to frequent travelers
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! Each Delta American Express card has its own flavor, catering to different types of travelers. If you’re just starting or traveling occasionally, the Blue card is a cozy choice. For the more adventurous who want additional perks, you might lean towards the Gold or Platinum cards. And if you’re a frequent flyer who loves to travel in style, the Reserve card is calling your name!
Remember, choosing the right card really depends on your travel habits, preferences, and how often you plan to take to the skies. So do a little soul-searching, crunch those numbers, and you’ll be flying high in no time. Safe travels