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Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card vs IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card
This comparison is designed to help you decide between the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card. Both cards offer unique benefits tailored to different travel preferences and spending habits. Let's dive into the details.
Card Overviews
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card is designed for frequent Delta Airlines travelers. It offers a range of travel benefits, including bonus miles on Delta purchases, travel credits, and priority boarding. This card is ideal for those who regularly fly with Delta and want to maximize their rewards on airline-related expenses.
IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card
The IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card is tailored for travelers who frequently stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts. With no annual fee and generous point-earning potential at hotels and on everyday purchases, this card is perfect for those who prefer hotel stays over flights and want to earn rewards for their everyday spending.
Detailed Feature Comparison
| Feature | Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card | IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150 | $0 |
| Welcome Bonus | Earn 50,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $2,000 in eligible purchases in the first 6 months | Earn 80,000 Bonus Points |
| Rewards Structure | 2X Miles on Delta purchases, U.S. supermarkets, and restaurants; 1X Miles on other purchases | Up to 17 total points per $1 at IHG Hotels; 3 points per $1 on monthly bills, gas, and restaurants; 2 points per $1 on other purchases |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | None | None |
| Other Fees | $200 Delta Flight Credit after $10,000 in purchases | None |
| Additional Benefits | Free first checked bag, priority boarding, hotel credits | Redeem 3 Nights, Get the 4th Night Free |
Rewards Highlights
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
- Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S.
- Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card
- Earn up to 17 total points per $1 spent when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts.
- Earn 3 points per $1 spent on purchases on monthly bills, at gas stations, and restaurants.
- Earn 2 points per $1 spent on all other purchases.
Pros and Cons
Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card
- Pros:
- Strong rewards on Delta purchases
- Free first checked bag
- Priority boarding on Delta flights
- Cons:
- $150 annual fee after the first year
- Bonus miles limited to Delta-related spending
IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card
- Pros:
- No annual fee
- Generous point earning potential on hotel stays
- Bonus points for everyday spending
- Cons:
- Less valuable for non-IHG hotel stays
- Bonus points can be limited to hotel stays
Who Should Consider Which Card?
Consider the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card if you:
- Frequently fly with Delta Airlines
- Value airline perks such as free checked bags and priority boarding
- Want to earn miles primarily for travel
Consider the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card if you:
- Prefer staying at IHG Hotels & Resorts
- Want a no-annual-fee card with rewards on everyday spending
- Value hotel rewards and benefits over airline benefits
Conclusion
Both the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card and the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card offer unique advantages depending on your travel habits and preferences. Assess your individual needs and spending patterns to choose the card that aligns best with your goals.