Unlock Travel Rewards: How Amex Cards and Rakuten Supercharge Your Points Game

Unlocking the Power of Rakuten: Why an Amex Card is Your Travel Hacking Key

In Part 1 of this series, we dove into the world of Rakuten and how it can turn everyday shopping into a treasure trove of travel rewards. With just a few clicks, you can earn cash back or—more importantly for travel hackers—convert those rewards into valuable American Express Membership Rewards points. If you haven’t signed up yet, you’re leaving easy money and free travel opportunities on the table. Read Part 1 here and sign up for a Rakuten account. 

But here’s the kicker: to truly unlock the potential of Rakuten, you need an American Express card that allows Rakuten to send those points directly to your Membership Rewards account. Enter the American Express® Gold Card, the perfect companion for beginners and seasoned travel hackers alike.

Rakuten is also offering an extremely generous sign-up bonus of $40 which translates into 4,000 free Amex Points!

Why You Need an Amex Card for Rakuten

Rakuten offers you the option to convert cash back into Amex Membership Rewards points, a game-changer for anyone who wants to maximize their travel perks. Membership Rewards points are incredibly versatile—they can be redeemed for flights, hotels, upgrades, and even luxury experiences.

Without an eligible Amex card, you’re limited to Rakuten’s standard cash back, which is great but doesn’t have the same sky-high potential. To truly elevate your game, an Amex card is a must.

The Amex Gold Card: Your Ultimate Travel Hacking Ally

When it comes to versatile rewards and top-notch benefits, the American Express® Gold Card remains one of the most valuable tools in any travel hacker’s arsenal. Designed with food lovers and frequent travelers in mind, this card offers substantial rewards on dining, groceries, and travel, while packing a suite of additional perks that make it a standout choice.

Top Benefits of the Amex Gold Card

• Welcome Offer of Up to 100,000 Membership Rewards Points
  By Clicking this link New cardholders can currently earn up to 100,000 Membership Rewards points after meeting the spending requirement. While offers vary, even the standard bonus of 60,000 points (for $6,000 spent in six months) provides a significant boost to your points balance. That’s enough for several domestic flights or an international ticket in business class.
• 4X Points on Dining and Groceries
  Earn 4 points per dollar spent at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 annually). Whether you’re dining out or stocking up on groceries, this is one of the highest earning rates available in these categories. For foodies or families, these points add up quickly.
• 3X Points on Travel
  Earn 3 points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or via AmexTravel.com. This makes the Gold Card an excellent companion for frequent flyers.
• 2X Points on Prepaid Hotels
  For hotel bookings made through AmexTravel.com, the Gold Card offers 2 points per dollar, giving you another way to enhance your travel rewards.
• $120 Annual Dining Credit
  Receive up to $10 monthly in dining credits when you use your Gold Card at participating partners like Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
• $120 Uber Cash Benefit
  Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and enjoy $10 in Uber Cash each month for U.S. rides or Uber Eats. Totaling $120 annually, this perk adds significant value for regular Uber users.
• $84 Dunkin’ Credit
  Earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits at U.S. Dunkin’ locations when you pay with your Gold Card. Enrollment required.
• $100 Resy Dining Credit
  Receive up to $100 annually in statement credits for eligible purchases at U.S. Resy restaurants. Split into two $50 credits semi-annually, this perk is perfect for dining enthusiasts. Enrollment required.
• The Hotel Collection Credit
  Enjoy a $100 credit toward eligible charges when booking two or more consecutive nights at select upscale hotels through AmexTravel.com.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees
  Travel abroad with confidence, as the Gold Card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, saving you money on international purchases.

Who Should Get the Amex Gold Card?

The Gold Card is particularly well-suited for:

• Foodies: If dining out or cooking at home makes up a significant portion of your budget, the 4X points on restaurants and supermarkets deliver unmatched rewards.
• Frequent Travelers: The 3X points on flights and 2X on hotels ensure that your travel expenses work toward your next adventure.
• Value Seekers: When you maximize the card’s dining and Uber credits, you effectively offset much of its $325 annual fee, making it a cost-effective choice for high spenders.

A Perfect Starting Point for Travel Hacking

For anyone diving into travel hacking, the Amex Gold Card provides a strong foundation. Its earning potential across key categories like dining and groceries ensures rapid points accumulation, while its credits and perks enhance the value proposition. Most importantly, starting with the Gold Card allows you to later stack its benefits with the Platinum or Blue Business Plus cards for even greater rewards.

Why the Amex Gold Card Pairs Perfectly with Rakuten

When paired with Rakuten, the Gold Card becomes even more powerful. For example:

• Everyday Essentials Become Travel Rewards: Use the Gold Card for grocery shopping and dining, then shop online through Rakuten to earn additional points. Your weekly shopping becomes a direct path to your next vacation.
• Big Ticket Items Mean Big Points: Planning a large purchase? Use Rakuten’s portal to double-dip on rewards, earning both Amex points and Rakuten points for the same transaction.
• 100,000 Welcome Points: Combine the Gold Card’s massive welcome offer with Rakuten’s deals, and you’re well on your way to free flights or hotel stays.

How to Get Started

1. Apply for the Amex Gold Card: Check the current welcome offer on American Express.
2. Sign Up for Rakuten: If you haven’t already, sign up here to start earning rewards and get 4,000 Amex points!
3. Link Your Amex Account to Rakuten: Set Rakuten to transfer cash back as Amex Membership Rewards points.
4. Start Earning: Use your Gold Card for dining, groceries, and Rakuten purchases to maximize your rewards.

The Amex Gold Card is more than just a credit card—it’s a travel hacking essential. By pairing it with Rakuten, you’re not just earning points; you’re creating opportunities for free travel, luxury upgrades, and unforgettable experiences. With a welcome bonus of up to 100,000 points on the table, there’s never been a better time to start your journey.

Taking Travel Hacking to the Next Level: The American Express Platinum Cards

If you’re serious about travel hacking, you know that having the right tools makes all the difference.  Now, it’s time to level up. Enter the American Express® Platinum Cards—the ultimate keys to luxury travel and unmatched rewards.

Whether you choose the personal Platinum Card or the Business Platinum Card, these cards offer incredible perks, from access to premium airport lounges to massive welcome offers. In this article, we’ll break down the benefits of both cards, why they’re must-haves for serious travel hackers, and how to strategically sequence them with the Gold Card for maximum rewards. You do not need to own a business to get the businessAmex card! (See my guide at the bottom of this article)

Why the American Express Platinum Cards Are Game-Changers

Both the personal Platinum Card and the Business Platinum Card are designed for travelers who want premium perks and top-tier rewards. While they share some benefits, their differences cater to unique needs, making them powerful tools depending on your goals.

Strategic Advice: Gold First, Platinum Next

Here’s the key to maximizing these rewards: Get the American Express Gold Card first. The Gold Card’s welcome offer and bonus points on groceries and dining will provide an excellent foundation. After you’ve earned that bonus, apply for either the personal Platinum or the Business Platinum, depending on your needs and spending capacity. This sequence ensures you can stack points efficiently without risking eligibility for welcome bonuses.

American Express Platinum Cards: Elevate Your Travel Experience

For travelers who seek luxury, flexibility, and unparalleled perks, the American Express Platinum Cards deliver an exceptional experience. Whether you opt for the personal Platinum Card® or the Business Platinum Card®, you’ll enjoy premium benefits that redefine the way you travel. Let’s break down what each card offers and how they cater to different needs.

The American Express® Personal Platinum Card: Luxury Travel Made Easy

The personal Platinum Card is ideal for frequent travelers who want to enhance their journeys without the higher spending requirement of the business version. Here’s why it’s a must-have:

Key Benefits

• Welcome Offer: Earn 80,000–150,000 Membership Rewards® points after meeting a spending requirement (typically $6,000 within six months).
• 5X Points on Travel: Earn 5 points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or through AmexTravel.com and on prepaid hotels through AmexTravel.com.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select a qualifying airline and receive up to $200 in statement credits annually for incidental fees, like baggage or seat selection.
• $200 Uber Cash: Get up to $15 in Uber Cash monthly, plus a $20 bonus in December, for U.S. rides or Uber Eats.
• Global Lounge Access: Enjoy complimentary access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide through the American Express Global Lounge Collection, including Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass Select lounges, and more.
• $100 Saks Fifth Avenue Credit: Receive $50 semi-annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue.
• Elite Hotel Status: Complimentary Gold status with Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy provides perks like upgrades and late checkouts.

The American Express® Business Platinum Card: Built for Big Spenders

For entrepreneurs, freelancers, and business owners with higher expenses, the Business Platinum Card offers tailored benefits that amplify your spending power.

Key Benefits

• Welcome Offer: Click here to earn up to 300,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $20,000 in eligible purchases within the first three months.
• 1.5X Points on Big Purchases: Earn 1.5 points per dollar on purchases of $5,000 or more and in select business categories (hardware, electronics, cloud providers, and shipping).
• 5X Points on Travel: Like the personal Platinum, earn 5 points per dollar on flights and prepaid hotels booked through AmexTravel.com.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in annual statement credits for incidental fees with one airline of your choice.
• $199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Receive up to $199 annually for CLEAR® Plus Membership, expediting your airport security experience.
• $400 Dell Technologies Credit: Enjoy $200 semi-annually in statement credits for U.S. Dell purchases, perfect for upgrading tech.
• Global Lounge Access: Similar to the personal Platinum, access over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide.
• Elite Hotel Status: Complimentary Gold status with Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy.
• Unlock Over $1,000 in Annual Credits: From wireless services to recruiting and tech expenses, the Business Platinum offers multiple credits to offset its cost.

Who It’s For

The Business Platinum Card is perfect for:

• Business owners with high travel and operating expenses.
• Those who value premium perks, including lounge access and elite hotel status.
• Travelers who want to leverage significant statement credits to offset costs.

Maximizing Value: Which Platinum Card is Right for You?

• Personal Platinum: Best for individual travelers focused on leisure and luxury, with lower spending thresholds to unlock rewards.
• Business Platinum: Ideal for high-spending business owners who can take advantage of its enhanced earning rates and extensive statement credits.

My Experience with the Business Platinum Card

When I applied for the Business Platinum Card, the 300,000-point welcome offer was too good to pass up. The spending requirement of $20,000 in three months might seem daunting, but I strategically planned my expenses. Knowing I needed a second vehicle, I purchased a 2025 Black Edition Honda Ridgeline and paid for it entirely with my Business Platinum. Not only did this meet the spending threshold, but I also earned an additional 71,000 points thanks to the card’s 1.5x points on large purchases. That one move set me up with a massive points balance.

The American Express Platinum Cards are game-changers for anyone serious about travel hacking. With unmatched perks, massive welcome offers, and powerful rewards, they are the next logical step in your journey. Whether you’re booking business-class flights, relaxing in premium lounges, or enjoying elite hotel perks, these cards open the door to a world of luxury travel. Just remember: start with the Gold Card, then upgrade to Platinum to maximize your rewards potential.

Conclusion: Take Your Travel to New Heights

The American Express Platinum Cards redefine what it means to travel in style. Whether you’re flying first class, enjoying exclusive lounges, or leveraging elite hotel perks, these cards open doors to experiences that ordinary travelers can only dream of. With generous welcome offers, valuable credits, and unmatched benefits, the Platinum Cards are your gateway to the ultimate travel lifestyle.

The Amex Blue Business Plus: The Everyday Workhorse of Travel Hacking

If you’ve been following this series, you know that the American Express Gold and Platinum cards are exceptional tools for earning travel rewards. However, both come with specialized spending categories and higher annual fees, which might leave everyday, non-category-specific purchases under-optimized. That’s where the American Express® Blue Business Plus Credit Card comes in.

This card is a perfect addition to your travel hacking arsenal. With no annual fee, a flat 2X Membership Rewards points on everyday purchases (up to $50,000 annually), and a modest welcome offer, it’s the ideal complement to the Gold and/or Platinum cards. Whether you’re paying for office supplies, subscriptions, or other miscellaneous expenses, the Blue Business Plus ensures that every dollar works harder for you.

Why the Blue Business Plus is a Game-Changer:

No Annual Fee One of the biggest advantages of the Blue Business Plus card is its no annual fee policy. Unlike the Gold and Platinum cards, which come with fees of $250 and $695 respectively, this card provides an opportunity to earn Membership Rewards points without the added cost. It’s a budget-friendly option for building points over time.

2X Points on All Eligible Purchases Earn 2 Membership Rewards points per dollar on virtually all purchases, up to $50,000 annually. After that, you’ll still earn 1 point per dollar. This flat earning rate is higher than the base rates of the Gold or Platinum cards, making it perfect for non-specialized spending. For instance:

• Pay for office supplies, recurring subscriptions, or utility bills, and still earn at the enhanced 2X rate.
• Unlike the Gold (4X on dining and groceries) or Platinum (5X on travel), the Blue Business Plus shines when your expenses don’t fall into those bonus categories.

Modest Welcome Offer While the 15,000 Membership Rewards points welcome offer might seem small compared to the Gold or Platinum cards, the spending requirement is just $3,000 in three months—a much more manageable target for smaller budgets. This makes it an excellent entry point for new travel hackers or a useful addition to an existing setup.

0% Introductory APR Take advantage of a 0% APR for the first 12 months on purchases, followed by a variable APR of 17.74% to 25.74%. This feature provides breathing room for larger purchases or managing cash flow.

Expanded Buying Power The Blue Business Plus adapts to your spending needs with Expanded Buying Power, allowing you to spend beyond your credit limit. This flexibility is particularly useful for businesses or individuals with varying monthly expenses.

How the Blue Business Plus Pairs with the Gold and Platinum Cards

The true magic of the Blue Business Plus lies in how it complements the Gold and Platinum cards:

• Fill the Everyday Gap: Use the Gold for dining and groceries, the Platinum for flights and travel bookings, and the Blue Business Plus for everything else. With 2X points on general purchases, you’ll ensure every dollar is optimized.
• No Overlapping Fees: Since the Blue Business Plus has no annual fee, it’s a low-cost way to enhance your points-earning potential without adding to your card costs.
• Boost Your Points Pool: Membership Rewards points from all three cards go into the same pool, giving you even more flexibility when it’s time to redeem for flights, hotels, or upgrades.

Conclusion: A Must-Have for Comprehensive Travel Hacking

The American Express Blue Business Plus is the unsung hero of travel hacking. With its no annual fee and 2X points on everyday purchases, it complements the category-specific strengths of the Gold and Platinum cards. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to round out your strategy, this card ensures that no purchase is wasted when it comes to earning rewards.

By adding the Blue Business Plus to your wallet, alongside the Gold or Platinum—or both—you’ll create a well-rounded strategy that maximizes your rewards potential across all spending categories. Ready to take your travel hacking to the next level? The Blue Business Plus has you covered.

How to Qualify for an Amex Business Card: A Simple Guide for Sole Proprietors and Freelancers

Applying for an American Express (Amex) or any other business credit card is accessible even if you’re a sole proprietor, publish a blog, freelancer, or running a small side hustle or quite frankly just want a business card.  Here’s a straightforward guide to help you through the process:

1. Understand Your Business Status

You don’t need a formal business entity to apply for a business credit card. Activities like freelancing, blogging, or selling products online qualify as business operations. In these cases, you’re considered a sole proprietor.

2. Gather Necessary Information

Before applying, prepare the following details:

• Legal Business Name: As a sole proprietor, this is typically your full name.
• Business Name on Card: You can use your own name or a “Doing Business As” (DBA) name if you have one.
• Business Address and Phone Number: Your personal address and phone number are acceptable.
• Industry Type: Describe your business activity, such as “freelance writing” or “online retail.”
• Years in Business: Indicate how long you’ve been operating, even if it’s recent.
• Annual Business Revenue: Estimate your income from the business. If it’s a new venture, you can state zero or provide a projection.
• Tax Identification Number: As a sole proprietor, your Social Security Number (SSN) serves this purpose.

3. Assess Your Personal Credit

Your personal credit score plays a significant role in the approval process. Amex typically requires a good to excellent credit score (690 or higher). Review your credit report to ensure it’s accurate and address any issues beforehand.

4. Choose the Right Card

Amex offers various business credit cards tailored to different needs. Consider factors like rewards structures, annual fees, and benefits to select a card that aligns with your business spending habits.

5. Complete the Application

When filling out the application:

• Be Honest and Accurate: Provide truthful information about your business and personal finances.
• Use Your Legal Name: For sole proprietors, your legal name is your business name unless you have a registered DBA.
• Estimate Conservatively: If your business is new, it’s acceptable to provide estimated figures for revenue and expenses.

6. Prepare for a Personal Guarantee

As a sole proprietor, you’ll likely need to provide a personal guarantee, meaning you’re personally responsible for the card’s debt. Ensure you’re comfortable with this commitment.

7. Submit the Application

After reviewing your information for accuracy, submit your application online. Amex often provides decisions within minutes.

8. Manage Your Card Responsibly

Upon approval:

• Separate Expenses: Use the business card exclusively for business-related purchases to simplify accounting and tax reporting.
• Pay on Time: Timely payments help build your business credit profile and maintain a healthy credit score.

Additional Tips:

• Maintain Documentation: Keep records of your business activities and expenses to substantiate your operations if needed.
• Monitor Your Credit: Regularly check your personal and business credit reports to stay informed about your credit health.

By following these steps, you can successfully apply for an Amex business credit card, even as a sole proprietor or freelancer, and leverage its benefits to support and grow your business.