Ready to take your travel game to the next level? If you’re an American Express cardholder, you may be eligible for some of the most coveted travel perks in the industry: companion tickets. These valuable benefits can significantly reduce the cost of your trips and allow you to explore new destinations with a loved one.
In this article, we’ll answer the question: How to Get the Best Companion Ticket American Express. We’ll provide you with expert tips and strategies to maximize their value.
What is a Companion Ticket?
A companion ticket is a travel perk offered by American Express credit cards that allows cardholders to book a second ticket for a companion at a discounted rate or with no fare, plus taxes and fees.
Companion tickets can be used for domestic, Caribbean, and Central America flights, depending on the credit card and airline. The primary ticket fare is not affected by the companion ticket, making it a valuable benefit for frequent travelers.
American Express Credit Cards with Companion Ticket Perks
American Express offers several credit cards that come with valuable companion ticket perks, allowing you to bring a friend or family member along on your travels at a significantly reduced cost. Here are some of the most popular options:
Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card
This card offers a companion certificate after the first year of card membership and upon annual renewal. Companion certificates can be used for one-time round-trip domestic flights when you book a paid ticket.
Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card
The Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card provides an even more generous Delta companion ticket perk. Cardholders receive a companion certificate after the first year of card membership and annually thereafter. This certificate can be used for a one-time round-trip domestic or international flight when you book a paid ticket.
Platinum Delta SkyMiles Credit Card from American Express
While it doesn’t offer a companion certificate as a primary benefit, the Platinum Delta SkyMiles Credit Card from American Express does provide other valuable perks, including priority boarding and baggage handling, as well as access to Delta Sky Clubs.
Other American Express credit cards may also offer companion ticket perks, so it’s worth exploring your options to find the best card for your travel needs.
According to American Express, “Every airline has its own set of rules and restrictions, and carriers may offer different kinds of companion tickets valid for different seat classes or destinations”
How to Earn and Use a Companion Certificate
To earn a companion certificate, you typically need to renew your American Express credit card and pay the card’s annual fee. Once you’ve earned the certificate, it’s valid for one year from the date of issue.
To use a companion certificate, log in to your SkyMiles account and select the certificate you want to use. Then, proceed to search for eligible flights. Keep in mind that there may be restrictions on the types of flights you can book using a companion certificate, such as blackout dates or minimum fare requirements.
By taking advantage of these companion ticket perks, you can save money on your next trip and enjoy the company of a loved one.
Delta Companion Certificate: A Popular Option
The Delta Companion Certificate is a popular perk offered by the best Delta credit cards, including the Delta SkyMiles Platinum and Reserve American Express Cards.
The certificate allows cardholders to book a companion ticket for a domestic round-trip flight, with the payment of applicable taxes and fees.
The certificate is valid for one year from the date of issue and can be used for flights within the contiguous United States, Alaska, and Hawaii.
According to the Nerd Wallet, “The Delta companion fare is automatically issued to your SkyMiles account each year following your card renewal.”
Maximizing the Value of Companion Tickets
Use your companion ticket on the most expensive domestic one round-trip ticket you plan to buy to maximize the value.
Also, consider booking the same flights during peak travel seasons or for popular routes to get the most value from your companion ticket.
Again, make sure to read the terms and conditions of your companion pass to understand any restrictions or limitations.
Top Airline Credit Cards with Companion Perks
When it comes to maximizing your travel rewards, airline credit cards with companion ticket perks can be a game-changer. These cards offer the opportunity to bring a friend or family member along on your travels at a significantly reduced cost. Here are some of the most popular options:
Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card
This card offers a companion certificate after the first year of card membership and upon annual renewal. The companion certificate can be used for a one-time round-trip domestic flight when you book a paid ticket.
Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card
The Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card provides an even more generous companion ticket perk. Cardholders receive a companion certificate after the first year of cardmembership and annually thereafter. This certificate can be used for a one-time round-trip domestic or international flight when you book a paid ticket.
Alaska Airlines Visa Signature credit card
Alaska Airlines Visa Signature cardholders can earn companion tickets through the Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan program. By earning a certain number of miles, you can redeem them for a companion ticket to travel with you on eligible Alaska Airlines flights.
British Airways Visa Signature credit card
The British Airways Visa Signature credit card offers a companion ticket perk for Avios members. By earning a specific number of Avios points, you can redeem them for a companion ticket to travel with you on eligible British Airways flights.
Other airline credit cards may also offer companion ticket perks, so it’s worth exploring your options to find the best card for your travel needs.
Companion Ticket Restrictions and Limitations
While companion tickets can be a great way to save money on your travels, it’s important to be aware of the potential restrictions and limitations that may apply. These can include:
- Eligible flights: Some companion tickets may only be valid for specific flight routes or airlines.
- Travel dates: There may be restrictions on when you can use your companion ticket, such as blackout dates or peak travel times.
- Fare classes: Companion tickets may only be valid for certain fare classes, such as economy or basic economy.
- Upgrades: Some companion tickets may not be eligible for upgrades to higher fare classes.
- Availability: Companion tickets may have limited availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
To ensure you understand any restrictions or limitations associated with your companion ticket, be sure to carefully read the terms and conditions of your credit card and the airline’s companion ticket program. By doing so, you can maximize the value of your companion ticket and enjoy your travels with a loved one.
Booking a Flight with a Companion Ticket
Log in to your SkyMiles account and select the companion certificate to use. Then, proceed to search for eligible flights and book your ticket.
Make sure to read the terms and conditions of your companion ticket to understand any restrictions or limitations.
According to Forbes, “The best way to utilize the AMIAP is to find reasonably priced flights on Google Flights or Kayak first.”
Choosing the Right Credit Card for Your Travel Needs
Consider your travel habits and preferences when choosing a credit card with a companion ticket perk. Look for credit cards with flexible travel rewards and no foreign transaction fees.
And of course, make sure to read the terms and conditions of the credit card to understand any restrictions or limitations on the companion ticket perk.
Wrapping Up on How to Get the Best Companion Ticket American Express Travel Perks
As you’ve seen, American Express companion tickets offer an incredible opportunity to save on your travels and create unforgettable memories. By understanding the different card options, earning requirements, and potential restrictions, you can make the most of this valuable perk.
So, pack your bags, grab your companion, and get ready to embark on exciting adventures with the help of your American Express companion ticket.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my companion ticket for international flights?
While some American Express credit cards offer companion tickets for international flights, it’s important to check the specific terms and conditions of your card. Not all companion tickets are valid for international travel.
Can I use my companion ticket for more than one passenger?
No, companion tickets are typically limited to one additional passenger per ticket. You cannot use a companion ticket to book multiple additional tickets.
Are there any blackout dates or restrictions on using companion tickets?
Yes, there may be blackout dates or restrictions on when you can use your companion ticket. These restrictions can vary depending on the credit card and airline. It’s important to review the terms and conditions of your companion ticket to understand any limitations.
