The Platinum Card from American Express

The The Platinum Card from American Express from American Express offers a 80,000 points sign-up bonus worth approximately $960. You need to spend $8,000 in 6 months, which requires planning but is achievable with regular expenses.

Beyond the sign-up bonus, the card earns 5x flights booked directly, 5x hotels via Amex Travel on top of 1x on all purchases. Membership Rewards points transfer to 15+ airline and hotel partners, often yielding 1.5-2 cents per point.

The $695 annual fee is offset by the card's perks and credits — evaluate which benefits you'd naturally use. The card requires excellent credit (750+).