Originally Posted by
awake
1. Getting an AMEX Platinum is purely a decision of whether or not you need the benefits. It is relatively common for people to have an AMEX Platinum for benefits and use a different AMEX for their spending: AMEX SPG, HHonors, or Delta. This has nothing to do with Churning. Churners keep acquiring card just for bonus points.
I didn't imply that getting a platinum amex was churning. I meant that I am not a churner so I want a card that is good for consistent usage, not just for sign on bonuses.
Originally Posted by
awake
- Citi Diners Club - This is the most flexible Mastercard. It allows transfers to the most airline programs and hotel programs of any card. However, it does have a $95 annual fee (waived if you have a Citigold account). It also provides primary rental car insurance. If you get this card, make sure that you get the 12k point bonus
I don't know if I can justify a $95 annual fee for a card that I will rarely use so it would have to become my primary. I have rental insurance through my company so that is not important.
Originally Posted by
awake
- Citi Professional Card - 3 pts per $ for restaurants, gas and rental cars ( this is superior to your Citi Elite on your most common spending categories above). It offers primary rental car insurance. However this is a BUSINESS card. You may still need a consumer MC/Visa for other purposes. You can buy hotel gift certificates and redeem for airfare. However, you cannot transfer to other programs. If you get this card, make sure that you get the 15k point bonus
I still think this might be my best option for a non-amex even though it doesn't transfer.
Originally Posted by
awake
- Merrill+ Visa - Transfers 1 pt per $ to British Airways. Offers AA status match for $20k spending. Offers a DL or AA club membership with $50k spending. You can redeem points for plane tickets or hotel gift certificates.
I hate AA. AA hates me. Although AA lounge access is what makes me consider getting the Amex Platinum now (versus just a delta lounge membership), AA perks do little for me. My spend doesn't put me at the $50k threshold. I don't have a British Airways account right now so I don't have any orphan points there that need a transfer from a credit card.