Thinking about boosting your Delta travel game? It’s a smart move, especially when you consider the Delta SkyMiles® American Express Cards. They’re not just credit cards; they’re designed to weave more miles and perks into your journey, making every trip feel a little more rewarding.
Let's break down what's on offer, because choosing the right card can feel like picking the perfect seat on a flight – you want one that fits your needs perfectly.
The Gold Standard: Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
This card is often a fantastic starting point for many travelers. Imagine earning miles on everyday spending, like dining out or grocery shopping. With the Gold card, you get 2 miles per dollar at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets. Plus, those takeout and delivery orders in the U.S.? Yep, 2 miles per dollar there too. And for Delta purchases, it's a solid 2 miles per dollar.
Beyond earning, there are some sweet perks. You’ll get your first checked bag free on Delta flights – a small thing that can add up to significant savings and convenience. There’s also a $200 Delta Flight Credit you can earn after spending $10,000 in a calendar year, which is a nice chunk towards your next adventure. And for those who use Uber, you can snag up to a $9.99 monthly credit for an Uber One membership for up to six months, which is a neat bonus, especially if you’re heading to or from the airport.
The annual fee is $0 for the first year, then $150. It’s a thoughtful balance of earning potential and tangible benefits, especially if you fly Delta with some regularity.
Elevating Your Experience: Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
If you’re looking to take your Delta loyalty to the next level, the Platinum card steps things up. The earning rates are a bit higher on Delta purchases and eligible hotel stays, clocking in at 3 miles per dollar. And for those who love to travel, the annual Companion Certificate is a real showstopper. Each year after renewal, you can get a round-trip domestic, Caribbean, or Central American companion ticket for just the cost of taxes and fees. This alone can often offset the card’s annual fee, which is $350.
This card also comes with benefits designed to help you get closer to Medallion Status. You get a $2,500 Medallion® Qualification Dollar (MQD) Headstart each year, and you earn $1 MQD for every $20 spent on the card, helping you boost your way towards elite status. On top of that, there are statement credits that can add up to $390 annually: a $120 Rideshare Credit (up to $10 per month on select U.S. rideshare purchases), a $150 Delta Stays Credit for bookings on delta.com, and a $120 Resy Credit (up to $10 per month on eligible U.S. Resy restaurant purchases).
Making the Choice
When comparing, it really comes down to your travel habits and how much you value specific benefits. The Gold card is excellent for everyday earning and foundational travel perks like the free checked bag. The Platinum card, with its Companion Certificate and MQD earning potential, is geared towards more frequent Delta flyers who are aiming for elite status and want to maximize their travel value.
Both cards offer a 15% discount when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights, which is a nice touch for making your miles go further. And remember, you can check for pre-approval on personal card products without impacting your credit score, which is a reassuring way to explore your options.
