Got my fee free Traveler's checks today and a discount card. Discounts are mostly gimmicks.
Free companion on domestic first class ticket sounded nice. BUT terms included "Purchase a First Class ticket through our designated agency and get a companion ticket for $200 of Rewards. The ticket you purchase must of at least $1699 base fare to qualify for the $200 in Rewards companion ticket." I haven't paid that for a domestic ticket in years, maybe never. Then it is limited to
# Travel within the 48 contiguous US States and Canada.
# Service is on American Airlines
# Reservations require a 7 day advance and a Saturday night stay. Once purchased, all tickets are non-refundable and any changes will be subject to change fees and any increase in fare that may apply based on availability.
The $100 discount on domestic coach was not much better.
Apply $100 in Rewards towards the purchase of a ticket with a minimum of $409 base fare. Base fare is the fare before the application of taxes and other applicable fees. All tickets must be purchased through our designated agency.
* Travel within the contiguous 48 US States and Canada.
* Service is on American Airlines
* Reservations require a 14 day advance and a Saturday night stay.
However, the FC upgrade to Hawaii on an $849 or higher ticket and the $100 discount on coach fares over $799 to Europe did not seem so bad.
The hotel discounts were likely off of rack rates and nothing that I could not beat elsewhere. Still, some looked worthwhile.
Dining discounts mostly fast food. DVD pricing seemed fair, but I never buy them and do not know what the competitors charge.
Bottom line -- if you are buying traveler's checks anyhow or if they are free, why not. Don't be too disappointed if you don't get much use out of the card.
Maybe I should sell mine on eBay
People there will buy about anything. My guess is that somewhere there is small print saying that is a no no. The FAQ said:
Q:
Can I make reservations or purchases for family or friends?
A: Yes, you can make reservations and/or purchases for family and friends.
More than I expected there.