IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card vs The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

This comparison aims to assist you in deciding between the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express. Both cards cater to different audiences and offer unique benefits, making it essential to understand their features and advantages.

Card Overviews

IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card

The IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card is designed for travelers who frequently stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts. With no annual fee, it provides a straightforward rewards structure, making it ideal for casual travelers looking to earn points for hotel stays.

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

The The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is aimed at business owners who travel frequently. With a higher annual fee, this card offers extensive rewards and benefits tailored to business expenses, making it suitable for those who spend significantly on travel and business-related purchases.

Detailed Feature Comparison

Rewards Highlights

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.

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

• Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points for flights, prepaid hotels, and short-term rentals and prepaid flight + hotel packages booked at AmexTravel.com.
• Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year.
• Earn 1X points on other eligible purchases.

Pros and Cons

IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card

• Pros:
  • No annual fee.
  • Generous welcome bonus.
  • High rewards potential at IHG properties.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
• Cons:
  • Limited benefits outside of hotel stays.
  • Lower rewards on non-IHG purchases.

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

• Pros:
  • Extensive rewards on travel-related purchases.
  • Access to numerous airport lounges.
  • Multiple statement credits for business-related expenses.
• Cons:
  • High annual fee.
  • Complex rewards structure may be challenging for casual users.

Who Should Consider Which Card?

If you are a frequent traveler who often stays at IHG Hotels & Resorts, the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card is likely the better option, especially given its no annual fee and hotel-specific rewards. Conversely, if you are a business owner who travels frequently and spends significantly on travel and business expenses, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express could provide substantial benefits and rewards that align with your spending habits.

Conclusion

In summary, both cards offer unique advantages tailored to different types of users. The decision ultimately comes down to your individual spending patterns, travel habits, and whether the benefits align with your lifestyle. Consider these factors carefully to choose the card that best suits your needs.

“Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.”