Traveling with Kids? Why the American Express Platinum Card is the Absolute G.O.A.T.
Hey friends, what’s up? Philip here from Points of Philip.
If you’ve been following the channel, you know I love a good travel hack. But recently, my wife and I took our son, Wells, on a trip from Orlando to Atlanta. It was a "test flight" to flex our travel muscles before we tackle longer international flights later this year.
The verdict? If you are traveling with a little one, the American Express Platinum Card isn't just a luxury—it’s a necessity. It turned what could have been a stressful nightmare into a smooth, first-class experience.
Here is how the "GOAT" of travel cards made our family trip a breeze.
1. Speeding Through Security (The 7-Minute Miracle)
Traveling with a baby means hauling a stroller, a car seat, formula, and a mountain of gear. Usually, the TSA line is where dreams go to die. However, because the Platinum card covers both Clear and TSA PreCheck, we skipped a line of about 200 people.
Even with the extra time it took to scan the formula and collapse the UPPAbaby stroller, we went from the entrance to the gate in 7 minutes. When you have a ticking "baby bomb" that could have a meltdown at any moment, every minute saved is a victory.
2. Airport Lounges: The Ultimate Parent Sanctuary
We had some time to kill before our Delta flight. Instead of sitting at a crowded gate, we used the Priority Pass benefit to hit "The Club" at MCO.
Why this matters for parents:
Private Bathrooms: Changing a blowout in a busy terminal bathroom is stressful. The lounge offered a quiet, clean, private space to get Wells changed and reset.
Recharge Station: We grabbed coffee and breakfast, repacked our bags after the security shuffle, and relaxed in a quiet environment before boarding.
On our way back, we visited the Centurion Lounge. They have massive, high-end changing stations in the handicap stalls that make the process so much easier. Plus, a "Four Roses" Old Fashioned for Dad doesn’t hurt either!
3. The "Suite" Life: Marriott Gold Status
One of the best "hidden" perks of the Platinum card is automatic Marriott Gold Status. We stayed at an Element Hotel (a Westin brand) and were upgraded to an Executive One-Bedroom Suite.
This was a game-changer. Having a separate living room and kitchen meant:
The Shift System: One of us could be in the living room feeding Wells while the other got some uninterrupted sleep in the bedroom.
The "Bar" Changing Table: The suite’s bar area became our command center for diapers and supplies.
Early Check-in/Late Check-out: More flexibility to work around a baby’s nap schedule.
4. The Rental Car Level-Up
We flew into Atlanta during the Masters' weekend, and rental cars were scarce. Because of the Platinum card, I have Executive Status with National.
We booked a cheap compact car (like a Corolla) but were able to walk straight to the Emerald Isle and pick out a Hyundai Tucson SUV. Having that extra trunk space for the collapsible bathtub, stroller, and car seat saved us from a logistical headache.
5. Practical Credits: Walmart+ and Groceries
Before we even arrived at the hotel, I used the Walmart+ credit (included with the card) to have groceries delivered. We had Gatorade, extra diapers, and snacks waiting for us at the front desk. Not having to go grocery shopping with a tired baby after a flight is a win you can't put a price on.
A Quick Personal Note on the Journey
Before we wrap up, I wanted to share something personal. Over the last year and a half, I’ve lost 100 pounds. While hard work and diet played a role, I also used GLP-1 shots to help get my health on track.
Being 100 pounds lighter has made me a better father. I have the energy to hold Wells for long periods, prop him up for feedings, and keep up with the demands of travel without being exhausted. If you’re looking to start your own health journey, check the links in my description for affordable options—it’s been life-changing for my family.
Is the Annual Fee Worth It?
The Platinum card has a high annual fee ($695), but look at what we used on just one short trip:
Uber Cash: Great for airport rides or Uber Eats.
Digital Entertainment Credit: We use this for YouTube Premium so Wells can watch his "baby classical" videos without annoying ads.
Airline Fee Credits: Can cover lounge guests or baggage.
Lululemon Credit: I used this for a Merino wool hoodie that doubled as a soft travel blanket for Wells!
Final Thoughts
From the Delta One seat upgrades (thanks to those Amex points!) to the peace of mind of Primary Rental Car Protection, the American Express Platinum card is the ultimate tool for family travel. It removes the friction points that make traveling with kids difficult.
Ready to upgrade your travel game? If you’re interested in the card, check out the link in the description below to apply.