Last Updated on June 12, 2022 by Caitlin
Choosing the right credit card to pay for your car rental is an important decision. Of course, not all credit cards are created equal. A premium credit card with built-in benefits can offer an extra layer of protections as well as some nice perks. The American Express Platinum Card offers a slew of perks for travelers, but they are mainly for airlines and hotels. You get a few perks for car rentals, including secondary rental car insurance coverage. That’s not bad, but not as generous as what you’d get with the Chase Sapphire Reserve Card.
American Express Platinum Card Benefits for Car Rentals
American Express issues nearly five dozen different credit cards, including 10 different Platinum Cards. None of them offer primary car rental coverage, although most offer secondary coverage. American Express has a page where you can check the coverage for your specific card.
Buy Collision Insurance For Less Than What You’ll Pay at the Rental Counter
American Express Platinum Cards offer secondary coverage for damages of up to $75,000. The policy also covers “reasonable and necessary charges” related to damage or theft. These include Loss of Use, appraisal fees and towing charges not covered by other roadside assistance programs.
Regardless of which American Express credit card you hold, enroll for Premium Car Rental Protection coverage that can be added to car rentals (for between $12.95 and $24.95, depending on where you rent). This coverage is typically cheaper than what you would pay over the counter. That’s because it’s charged once for the entire rental, not per day. The policy is also primary coverage. That makes it a good choice if you don’t own your own car and do not have personal auto insurance. If you want this protection, enroll in the program online before renting the car.
The Premium Car Rental Protection can not be applied to car rentals in Australia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica and New Zealand. It also excludes some types of vehicles.
American Express Platinum Cards come with a slew of travel benefits, but mainly for airlines and hotels. The $550 annual fee is easy to recoup thanks to perks like Uber credits, $200 airline fee credit, Global Entry, and 5x rewards points on hotels and flights. For car rentals, you get free memberships in the premium car rental programs of Avis, Hertz, and National Car Rental. In addition, there is a premium roadside assistance benefit if you have car trouble.
Apply for an American Express Platinum Card
To apply for an American Express Platinum Card, visit the Amex website and fill out an application for the card of your choice.
How to File a Rental Car Claim with American Express Platinum Card
To make an American Express Platinum Card rental car insurance claim, call (800) 338-1670 in the U.S. only or call (440) 914-2950 from other locations worldwide. American Express will then mail you instructions for what to do next.
Let AutoSlash Track Your Car Rental for Price Drops
As always, it is important to document everything. Be sure to take multiple photos of the rental car—noting every ding and scratch—before you leave the car rental office when you pick up the car.
Related:
- Why It’s Easier to Rent a Car with a Credit Card Than a Debit Card
- Premium Credit Cards That Offer Premium Car Rental Benefits
The post Is American Express Platinum the Right Choice for Car Rentals? appeared first on AutoSlash.
Photo credit: Shutterstock
Photo credit: Shutterstock
The minimum age for renting a car in Canada is twenty-one years old, but this number is lower in Quebec and Saskatchewan. If you're younger than this, you may need to pay an age surcharge. In addition, you'll likely be restricted from renting luxury or specialty vehicles. The age requirements vary depending on where you're renting your vehicle, so be sure to ask questions before you rent.
In British Columbia, the age limit for renting a car is 21 years old. However, there are exceptions to this rule. Some rental companies will allow drivers under twenty-one, while others will allow drivers aged seventy-five to rent a car. Also, make sure you read the rental company's policy to make sure you don't have any age restrictions. You should also know that the minimum age for renting a car in Whistler depends on the type of rental company.
Another thing to keep in mind is that many car rental companies will require a credit card as a security deposit. This fee can be waived if you are under twenty-five. Depending on where you plan on renting your car, there are other factors that might make it a safer experience for everyone. However, the most important thing to remember is that it's best to stick to the basic requirements and avoid any complications or penalties.
If you're a young driver, you can rent a car from most rental companies in Whistler without a problem. Many car rental companies are young and do not have age restrictions. If you are over the age of twenty-four, you can drive a compact, subcompact, or standard-sized vehicle. However, if you're under twenty-five, you won't be able to drive an SUV or minivan.
In Niagara Falls, it's easy to rent a car. Most rental companies are located on the airport property, and you can find the one near the airport. If you're staying in a hotel, you can take advantage of their free parking. In addition, you can also drive around the city by taking public transit. There's no public parking in the area, so you can take a bus to different viewpoints.
You can also use your debit card to rent a car in Niagara Falls. While you can't use your Debit Card at a budget car rental, it will give you more flexibility. The cost of the rental is affordable for tourists, but you should be aware of the rental company's policies and fees. Make sure you compare the prices of rental cars before choosing one. Ensure that you know your destination before making a reservation.
Photo credit: Nantucket