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Vehicle hire insurance and excess, 18/07/2023 • knowledge, information.

Is vehicle hire insurance and excess covered in the vehicle hire amount?

No, rental vehicle insurance is not included in the vehicle hire rate, however you can purchase rental vehicle insurance directly from the vehicle provider when you collect the vehicle, to reduce your excess. For residents of Australia, Qantas Travel Insurance offers a range of travel insurance policies which include cover for rental car insurance excess. Visit: qantasinsurance.com

Other Useful Articles

  • Redeeming Qantas Points for vehicle hire
  • Cancel or change vehicle hire booking
  • Payment options for vehicle hire
  • Refunding, changing, or cancelling a flight booking
  • Using Qantas Points for vehicle rental

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Complimentary insurances with your ANZ credit card

We often don't think about insurance until we actually need it. Whether you need it now or not, you may be eligible for some complimentary travel or shopping insurance with your ANZ credit card. Take a look and see!

What are you looking for?

  • International travel insurance

Emergency and medical assistance

  • Insurance booklets

How to make a claim

Important changes to complimentary insurances.

Complimentary insurances for ANZ credit cards have undergone some recent changes, which will take effect from 7 June 2024 . Please refer to your new policy booklets and our helpful FAQs for details.

See what complimentary insurances are available

Select your card category below to see what complimentary insurances you may be eligible for on your existing ANZ credit card.

  • Platinum or Black cards
  • ANZ First cards

For ANZ Platinum and Black credit cards:

The eligible ANZ Platinum and Black credit cards are as follows:

  • ANZ Rewards Travel Adventures (no longer for sale)

Refer to the policy information booklet for terms, conditions, exclusion, limits, applicable sub-limits and eligibility criteria that apply. disclaimer

You could be eligible for these complimentary insurances disclaimer when you make eligible purchases using your eligible ANZ Platinum or Black credit card (see list below):

  • International Travel Insurance disclaimer
  • Domestic Travel Insurance disclaimer
  • Rental Vehicle Excess In Australia Insurance disclaimer
  • Purchase Protection Insurance disclaimer
  • Extended Warranty Insurance disclaimer

See your insurance booklet

For ANZ First credit cards:

The eligible ANZ First credit cards are as follows:

  • ANZ First Free Days Visa
  • ANZ First Low Interest Visa (no longer for sale)

You could be eligible for these complimentary insurances disclaimer when you make eligible purchases using your eligible ANZ First credit card (see list below):

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International Travel Insurance

You may be eligible for up to 6 months of complimentary international travel insurance with your ANZ Black or Platinum credit card. You'll need to meet the eligibility criteria set out in your  policy information booklet including, but not limited to:

  • prepayment of, at least, $250 of your travel costs before leaving Australia
  • travel costs need to be charged to an ANZ Black or Platinum credit card in your name. 

Before you travel overseas, read your  policy information booklet for full eligibility criteria, terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and applicable sub-limits. disclaimer  You can also check your eligibility and obtain a Letter of Eligibility  online or by phone below.

If your condition is life threatening, please call local emergency services.

Allianz Global Assistance are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please contact us using the following contact details:

  1800 010 075   within Australia

+61 7 3305 7465  from overseas

Please note that calls from mobiles, public telephones or hotel rooms may attract additional charges.

Email or fax

Email  [email protected]

Fax  +61 7 3305 7005

Other overseas numbers

Find the number you need from our list below

Looking for all the fine print?

Please refer to the insurance booklet relevant to your ANZ credit card for the eligibility criteria, terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and applicable sub-limits of the Group Insurance Policy.  

Platinum/Black Insurance booklet

First Insurance booklet

Please pick any of the following options to make a claim to the Allianz Global Assistance/ANZ Travel team:

Lodge your travel claim online or obtain a claim form for other complimentary covers.

  Claim online

24 hours a day, 7 days a week

1300 135 271

8am to 5pm AEST, Monday to Friday (except public holidays)

Email [email protected]

Post your completed claim form to Allianz Global Assistance, Locked Bag 3014, Toowong DC, QLD 4066

Your questions answered

What are the main changes.

A summary of the main changes (PDF) taking place in relation to the ANZ Platinum and Black Personal Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet are:

  • Wording updates to definitions and clauses
  • Changes to benefit limits
  • Excess will increase from $350 to $500 where excess is applicable.
  • Period of cover for Platinum cardholders will reduce from 6 consecutive months to 3 consecutive months.

For the full list of benefits and the terms, conditions, exclusions, limits, applicable sub-limits and excesses that apply, please refer to the new ANZ Platinum and Black Personal Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet for more information.

A summary of the main changes (PDF) taking place in relation to the ANZ First Credit Card Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet are:

For the full list of benefits and the terms, conditions, exclusions, limits, applicable sub-limits and excesses that apply, please refer to the new ANZ First Credit Card Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet for more information.

Why are the excess and benefit limits changing for International Travel Insurance?

ANZ and Allianz review the complimentary insurance offering from time to time and make adjustments in line with market conditions.

Why is the period of cover changing for International Travel Insurance for Platinum cardholders?

ANZ and Allianz review the complimentary insurance offering from time to time and make adjustments to reflect changing customer preferences and broader market conditions.

What happens to events occurring before 7 June 2024?

Where you want to make a claim for an insurable event that occurred before 7 June 2024 , the event will be covered under the terms of the policy in place at that time.

For ANZ Platinum and ANZ Black cardholders, if the insurable event occurred before 7 June 2024 , the ANZ Platinum and Black Personal Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet (PDF) dated 8 November 2023 will apply.

Terms, conditions, exclusions, limits, applicable sub-limits and eligibility criteria apply. Please refer the new ANZ Platinum and Black Personal Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet for more information.

For ANZ First Credit Card customers, if the insurable event occurred before 7 June 2024 , the ANZ First Credit Card Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet (PDF) dated 8 November 2023 will apply.

Terms, conditions, exclusions, limits, applicable sub-limits and eligibility criteria apply. Please refer the new ANZ First Credit Card Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet for more information.

If you have any questions about how the changes may apply to you, please contact Allianz Global Assistance on 1300 135 271 (within Australia) or by email to [email protected] .

Will this change effective from 7 June 2024 impact my current claim?

If you have any questions about an existing insurance claim or how the changes may apply to you, please contact Allianz Global Assistance on 1300 135 271 (within Australia) or by email to [email protected] .

Important information

Complimentary insurance covers: AWP Australia Pty Ltd ABN 52 097 227 177 AFSL 245631(trading as Allianz Global Assistance) under a binder from the insurer, Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFSL 234708 has issued a group policy to Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited (ANZ) ABN 11 005 357 522 AFSL and Australian credit licence 234527 which allows eligible ANZ account holders and cardholders to claim under the group policy as a third party beneficiary by reason of the statutory operation of Section 48 of the Insurance Contracts Act 1984 (Cth).  The eligibility criteria, terms, conditions, limits and exclusions of the group policy are set out in the  ANZ Platinum and Black Credit Card Complimentary Insurance booklet (PDF) which may be amended from time to time. An excess may be deducted from any benefit paid. ANZ does not guarantee this insurance. Any advice has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs.  You must check whether or not it is appropriate, in light of your own circumstances, to act on this advice.

Purchase Protection Insurance and Extended Warranty Insurance covers: AWP Australia Pty Ltd ABN 52 097 227 177 AFSL 245631 (trading as Allianz Global Assistance) under a binder from the insurer, Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFSL 234708 has issued a Group Policy to Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited (ANZ) ABN 11 005 357 522 AFSL and Australian credit license 234527 which allows eligible ANZ account holders and cardholders to claim under the Group Policy as a third party beneficiary by reason of the statutory operation of Section 48 of the Insurance Contracts Act 1984 (Cth). The eligibility criteria, terms, conditions, limits and exclusions of the Group Policy are set out in the  ANZ First Credit Card Complimentary Insurance booklet (PDF)  which may be amended from time to time. ANZ does not guarantee this insurance. Any advice has been prepared without taking into account your objects, financial situation or needs. You must check whether or not it is appropriate, in light of your own circumstances, to act on this advice.

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Can You Buy Travel Insurance for Road Trips?

Carissa Rawson

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Table of Contents

How road trip insurance works

How to choose between road trip travel insurance companies, best plans for road trip travel insurance, other tips for road trip travel insurance, top cards with travel insurance for road trips, road trip travel insurance recapped.

There’s nothing quite like breezing down a highway with the windows down, the wind in your hair and a cooler full of sodas in the back seat. Whether you’re traveling alone or enjoying a road trip with friends or family, you’ll want to be sure that you’re covered with travel protections on your drive. This is as true whether you're embarking on a classic American road trip — like U.S. Route 66 — are or braving the roadways in a foreign country, in your own car or a rented vehicle.

Let’s take a look at road trip travel insurance, how it works and the best plans for auto travel insurance to suit your needs.

Road trips aren't immune to disruptions, and road trip insurance works similarly to travel insurance . Most plans require purchase before your trip begins and cover your prepaid expenses.

For rental cars

Not all third-party travel insurance policies automatically include coverage for a rental vehicle. Seek out plans that provide rental car insurance specifically — or book your car with a credit card that offers these specific protections .

Rental car travel insurance policies generally protect against damage to the rental vehicle only. Causes not within your control, such as collision, theft, vandalism, windstorm, fire, hail or flood damage are typically covered.

Because of the limited scope of rental car insurance, know that you may be on the hook if you’re liable for damage to other vehicles or if there’s bodily injury.

When picking up your rental car, you will likely be offered the insurance sold by the rental car company at the counter, typically called a Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW). You can decline this protection if you have sufficient coverage elsewhere (e.g., via a third-party policy or a credit card).

For your personal vehicle

Getting road trip insurance for your own vehicle isn't as common as travel insurance for rental cars , but it can still be a valuable consideration depending on your situation. For instance, access to roadside assistance can provide peace of mind if you are driving for long stretches in rural areas.

Finally, road tripping doesn’t end at driving a car. Other trip protections you may consider including in a travel insurance policy include medical evacuation, trip cancellation insurance, trip interruption coverage and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) insurance . This is true whether you opt to drive your own vehicle or rent one for your trip.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

With several travel insurance companies out there, it can be difficult to narrow down the one you really need. Before buying, always get quotes from multiple businesses.

This is because coverage levels and prices can vary dramatically. Insurance aggregators such as InsureMyTrip or Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner) allow you to generate multiple quotes at once, plus they include filters for sorting so you can find the right policy for you.

Here are a few things to consider when looking for road trip insurance:

Whether you’re renting a car.

Where you're traveling.

Whether you already have car insurance. 

What types of coverage you’re interested in.

If you’re also planning on flying, cruising or using a ferry. 

How long you’ll be gone.

The cost of the plan.

To figure out the best road travel insurance, we combed a variety of insurance providers to check out their offerings.

Our quotes were built using a hypothetical 37-year-old from California taking a road trip throughout the United States. The total trip time was 15 days, and the total trip cost was $2,700. Here were the top contenders.

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

IMG’s iTravelInsured Travel SE plan came out significantly cheaper than competitors’ plans at just $100.43. This includes primary rental car coverage and a whole host of trip protections.

$40,000 in rental car coverage — $5,000 more than similar plans.

$250,000 in primary emergency medical coverage . 

Pre-existing conditions covered. 

Rental car coverage is only for collision, theft or damage to the vehicle.

$40,000 rental car coverage maximum. 

AD&D doesn’t cover strokes or any cardiac events.

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

HTH Worldwide

HTH Worldwide is another top option for travel insurance for car trips. Coming in at $185.29, the TripProtector Preferred plan provides up to $35,000 for rental car coverage, as well as other unique coverage options.

Covers additional kennel fees for your pet if you’re delayed. 

Includes $500,000 in primary emergency medical coverage.

Offers up to $200 to reinstate frequent traveler rewards, which is handy if you booked hotels on points for your trip.

Max of $35,000 in rental car coverage.

Repatriation of remains covers just $25,000.

Coverage excludes trucks, campers, motor bikes, recreational vehicles and exotic vehicles (defined as antique, limited production or collectible car or any other private passenger vehicle with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price over $75,000).

» Learn more: Is Cancel For Any Reason travel insurance worth it?

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services

USI Affinity’s Diamond plan rang in at $187, just a little more than HTH Worldwide’s plan. While it includes rental car insurance, the limit is quite low, making this a better option for those who are driving their own vehicles.

Travel delay starting at six hours.

$1 million limit for medical evacuation and repatriation. 

$50,000 limit for 24-hour AD&D. 

$1,000 rental car insurance maximum.

$100 deductible for rental car insurance. 

Maximum trip length of 30 days. 

AXA Assistance USA

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

AXA Assistance USA is our final recommendation due to its nonmedical evacuation policy, which will transport you to safety during a natural disaster or time of political or civil unrest. This can be especially important if you plan on driving somewhere remote with unknown weather conditions. The total for AXA’s Gold plan came in at $215.

$50,000 in nonmedical evacuation. 

$35,000 in rental car coverage. 

Includes coverage for sporting equipment. 

Minimum 12-hour travel delay before benefits kick in.

$25,000 limit for 24-hour AD&D.

Max of $35,000 in rental car coverage. 

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

We’ve gathered a few other tips for road trip travel insurance for you, so be sure to consider these before purchasing a policy:

Check out your own auto insurance policy. Within the U.S., your personal policy will usually also cover you when you drive a rental car.

Consider getting a travel credit card. Many travel credit cards include complimentary travel insurance as a benefit.

Secondary policies pay out after other options have been exhausted, but if you don’t have primary coverage, they automatically become primary. Keep this in mind when comparing plans. 

Waive the rental company's insurance and pay for your car with one these travel cards to get complimentary insurance on your rental and more:

Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card

on Chase's website

Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card

on American Express' website

Chase Ink Business Preferred Credit Card

• Primary rental car coverage: Up to the cash value of most rental vehicles.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 12 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Primary rental car coverage: Up to $75,000.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 6 hours.

• Secondary rental car coverage: Up to $75,000.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per trip for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

Terms apply.

It’s important to ensure that you’re covered when you’re traveling, whether that’s by airplane, trains or automobiles. Depending on where you’re going, you may already have coverage — but do your due diligence and check first.

If not, consider getting a travel insurance policy that’ll cover your road trip, both for peace of mind and safety when you’re away from home.

American Express travel insurance disclosures

Insurance Benefit: Car Rental Loss & Damage Insurance

Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply.

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply.

Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details.

Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

Insurance Benefit: Trip Delay Insurance

Up to $500 per Covered Trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period.

Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Insurance Benefit: Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance

The maximum benefit amount for Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is $10,000 per Covered Trip and $20,000 per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

What you need to know about rental car reimbursement coverage

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

By AAA staff

May 30, 2024

If your car is damaged in an incident covered by insurance, there's a good chance you'll need to rent a vehicle to get around while your car is being repaired or replaced.

Renting a car can be costly, adding up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars depending on how long you need it for.

The good news? Auto insurance offers rental car reimbursement coverage specifically to take this financial burden off your shoulders. What exactly is rental car reimbursement coverage , how does it work, and what does it cover? Let's dive in.

What is rental car reimbursement coverage?

While coverage can vary from one policy or insurance company to the next, the basic idea is that you are compensated for the expense of renting a car when your personal vehicle is being repaired or replaced for a loss covered by your insurance. 

Most insurers require you to carry comprehensive and collision coverage before you can add rental car reimbursement coverage. If you already have those coverages, however, rental car reimbursement coverage is typically a small additional expense for added peace of mind and convenience if your vehicle is damaged in a covered incident. 

Many insurance companies allow you to arrange your rental directly through them, and this is usually the most convenient way to use your coverage, as your insurer can monitor and pay for the rental directly, up to the limits on your coverage. In some situations, you may need to pay for the rental out of your own pocket initially and submit receipts to your insurance company for reimbursement instead. 

What kind of car can you rent under this coverage?

Typically, rental car reimbursement coverage will come with limits on the daily rate of the rental car and the maximum number of days that are covered. For example, your insurer might cover a $40/day rental for up to 30 days. If you need or want a rental that costs more than that, you’ll pay the difference out of pocket. 

There isn't usually a limit on the type of car you can rent with rental reimbursement coverage so long as it falls within your daily limit. Some policies, however, may designate that the rental vehicle needs to be a similar make and/or model as the vehicle involved in the insurance claim. If you have questions about what's included with your rental car reimbursement coverage, be sure to consult with your insurance agent.

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

How long will your rental car expenses be covered?

Check your auto insurance policy paperwork to find out exactly how long your rental may be covered, as this can vary from one policy to the next. Some rental car reimbursement policies max out at 30 days, while others may include coverage for as long as it takes to repair or replace your car.  

What if another party is at fault?

The nice thing about rental car reimbursement coverage is that it can typically be used to cover the costs of a rental car following a covered claim no matter who is at fault, or if fault has not yet been determined.

If you don’t have rental car reimbursement coverage and another driver is determined to be at fault for the damage to your vehicle, you may be able to pursue reimbursement for your rental expenses directly from the at-fault driver's insurance.  

What's covered vs. what might not be covered?

The best way to find out exactly what's covered by your rental car reimbursement policy is to read your own policy paperwork and declarations carefully, being sure to reach out to your insurance agent with any questions or concerns you may have.

In general, however, rental reimbursement coverage is designed to cover the daily rate of a rental vehicle while your own car is unavailable because of a covered claim, such as a crash. That typically includes taxes and fees as long as they don’t exceed the daily limit on your coverage, but not refueling charges or the tax on refueling charges, or optional add-on insurance you might be offered by the rental car company.

Rental car reimbursement coverage isn’t designed to pay for costs related to renting a car for a vacation or leisure. Likewise, this coverage can’t be used if your vehicle is in the shop for routine maintenance or repairs unrelated to a covered claim.

Is rental car reimbursement coverage the same thing as rental car insurance?

It’s easy to confuse rental car reimbursement coverage with the add-on rental car insurance that car rental companies offer when you rent a car, such as collision damage waivers and excess liability insurance. These are separate types of coverage:

  • Rental car reimbursement is a coverage you can elect to carry on your own auto insurance policy in case you need to rent a car while getting your own car fixed or replaced.
  • Add-on rental car insurance refers to 4 types of optional coverage you can accept or turn down when you rent a car: collision damage waiver, supplemental liability insurance, personal accident insurance, and personal effects coverage. If you opt for any of them, these short-term coverages only cover you in your rental car for the length of the rental. 

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Credit cards

American Express Platinum rental car benefits guide 2024

Lee Huffman

Ashley Barnett

Ashley Barnett

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Robin Saks Frankel

Robin Saks Frankel

Published 5:44 a.m. UTC June 3, 2024

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Featured Image

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Frequent travelers know that The Platinum Card® from American Express (terms apply, rates & fees ) is loaded with premium travel benefits and annual statement credits that can justify its large annual fee. The Amex Platinum’s car rental benefits include protection against theft or damage¹ and elite status perks with Avis, Hertz and National Car Rental (enrollment required).

The card’s secondary rental car coverage¹ puts it at a distinct disadvantage to other luxury travel cards that include primary rental car insurance. However, Amex cardholders can also opt for primary rental car protection for a flat fee under $25 that’s only charged once per rental period (price varies depending on coverage selection and location).

When the annual fee can be worth it: Here’s how this card holder gets every penny back from the annual fee on their Amex Platinum

Amex Platinum Card overview

The American Express Platinum Card includes a variety of premium travel benefits for luxury travelers. In exchange for its $695 annual fee, you receive more than $1,500 in value, such as annual statement credits, airport lounge access, complimentary elite status and more. Here are a few of the major perks included with this card:

  • Welcome bonus: 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $8,000 on eligible purchases in the first six months of card membership.
  • Earn high rewards in several areas: 5 Membership Rewards® points per $1 for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel on up to $500,000 per calendar year, 5 points per $1 on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel and 1 point per $1 on other purchases.
  • Flexible redemption options: Membership Rewards points have numerous redemption options, including booking travel, cash back (via statement credit), gift cards, online shopping and more. Plus, Amex partners with nearly two dozen airlines and hotels, so you can transfer points to book award reservations through those loyalty programs.
  • Global Lounge Collection: Complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges from American Express, Priority Pass (enrollment required) and more.
  • Travel protections: Your trips are covered against delay², cancellation and interruption³ when using your Amex Platinum to book your reservations.

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The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Welcome bonus

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

Regular APR

Credit score.

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Editor’s take

  • Over $1,500 in travel and entertainment credits can offset the annual fee.
  • Comprehensive lounge access benefit.
  • Generous travel and purchase protections.
  • High annual fee and spending requirements.
  • Amex’s once-per-lifetime rule limits welcome bonus eligibility.
  • Annual statement credits have limited use.

Card details

  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
  • $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
  • $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
  • Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
  • Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
  • $695 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.

How does Amex Platinum car rental insurance work?

To receive Amex Platinum car rental insurance¹ on your reservation, you must use your card to pay for the entire rental and decline the rental company’s coverage options. This coverage also applies when redeeming Membership Rewards points to pay for some or all of the reservation.

Rental car protection¹ covers Amex Platinum cardholders, their spouse or domestic partner and any authorized drivers.

Rental car elite status

As an Amex Platinum cardholder, you and your authorized Platinum Card users receive complimentary elite status from three major rental car companies. Each program requires manual activation of these benefits, and you must use the special code when booking a rental car to receive benefits like free upgrades and discounts.

Avis Preferred

When you enroll with Avis Preferred, you’ll receive Avis Preferred Plus status. This status level includes a complimentary upgrade (when available) and additional Avis Preferred points on your reservations. To receive discounts on your rental, use your Platinum AWD discount code “A756900” and pay with your Amex Platinum Card. 

Plus, you’ll receive a free weekend offer after completing two qualifying Avis rentals in the U.S., Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands within the following promotional period: January 1 – June 30 or July 1 – December 31. Terms and conditions apply.

Hertz Gold Plus Rewards

Amex cardholders receive complimentary Hertz President’s Circle status with Hertz Gold Plus Rewards. As a President’s Circle member, you’ll receive a discount on the base rate, a 4-hour grace period on returns within the U.S. and guaranteed car-class upgrades on certain classes of vehicles (with at least a 24-hour advance reservation). 

You’ll receive these benefits when paying with your Amex Platinum Card and using the Amex Corporate Discount Code (CDP) “211762” on your reservation.

National Car Rental Emerald Club

When you activate benefits with National Car Rental Emerald Club, you’ll receive complimentary Executive tier status. You can choose any car within the Executive Selection area and receive automatic upgrades when a full-size through luxury car is reserved. Plus, after six qualifying rentals, you’ll receive a complimentary rental day. You can also choose to receive airline miles or hotel points from one of National’s partners on your reservations.

What does Amex car rental insurance cover?

When using your Amex Platinum car rental benefits, your rental car is insured for up to 30 consecutive days per rental agreement. Eligible vehicles are covered up to $75,000 against damage or theft of the vehicle.¹

Additionally, this protection covers you for other charges beyond vehicle damage. Rental car companies may charge drivers for loss of rental vehicle use, towing charges, appraisal fees, storage, administrative fees and more. The American Express Platinum card covers all of these costs.¹

These benefits also include accidental death and dismemberment coverage up to $300,000, accidental injury coverage up to $300,000 and personal property coverage up to $2,000.¹

What it doesn’t cover

Although the most exclusive cards, like American Express, are known for excellent customer service and generous benefits, the Amex Platinum car rental insurance¹ doesn’t cover every situation or claim. There are numerous exceptions where you won’t be covered against loss. Here are a few of the situations not covered by your Amex car rental coverage that may apply to your next rental car reservation.

  • Vehicles rented in Australia, Italy or New Zealand.
  • Illegal activity by the renter.
  • Driving while intoxicated or under the influence of drugs.
  • Off-road operation of the vehicle.
  • Intentional damage by the renter.
  • Normal wear and tear.
  • Theft or damage to an unlocked vehicle.
  • Cargo vans, box trucks or vans with seating capacity for more than eight passengers.
  • Using the vehicle for commercial or “for hire” purposes.
  • Off-road vehicles, motorcycles, mopeds or recreational vehicles.

Additionally, these car rental benefits only apply to theft or damage to the rental car. This insurance does not cover damage to other vehicles or property. Nor does it cover injuries to passengers, other drivers or pedestrians.¹

How to file a claim for Amex Platinum rental car insurance

If your rental car experiences damage or theft during your rental period, you’ll need to file a claim . Since the Amex Platinum car rental benefits provide secondary coverage ¹, you must also involve your auto insurance carrier unless you paid the additional fee to make the insurance primary.

  • Start your claim within 30 days of the loss or as soon as reasonably possible. You can call (800) 338-1670 or go online at americanexpress.com/protectionbenefits . If you’re outside the U.S., call collect at (303) 273-6497.
  • Claim forms will be sent to the Amex Platinum Card customer after starting your claim. If you haven’t received these forms within 15 days, you can submit your own written statement with the details of your claim.
  • Submit your claim forms and proof of loss within sixty days. Required documents vary by situation, but may include an itemized repair bill and copies of the rental agreement, the charge slip for the rental, your auto insurance coverage, your driver’s license and a police report (if applicable).
  • Claims for benefits are typically paid within 30 days of receipt of all requested documents supporting your proof of loss.

Amex Premium car rental protection

Although the Amex Platinum car rental benefits include secondary coverage¹, many travelers want a higher level of protection. 

Amex Premium Car Rental Protection has two coverage options that offer primary rental car insurance. Depending on which coverage level you select, you’ll pay either $19.95 or $24.95 per rental period. This is one flat fee per rental, not a daily charge. California and Florida residents receive this coverage for a lower price.

This coverage provides insurance against damage or theft of your rental car for up to 42 consecutive days (up to 30 consecutive days for Washington State card members). It does not include liability coverage for injuries to others or property damage. Coverage is worldwide, except for Australia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica and New Zealand.

This optional insurance can provide huge savings over the daily rental insurance fees charged by rental car companies.

Other Amex cards that offer rental car insurance

If you don’t have an Amex Platinum, other American Express cards include secondary rental car insurance¹ benefits at no extra charge, including (terms apply):

  • American Express® Gold Card
  • Amex EveryDay® Credit Card * The information for the Amex EveryDay® Credit Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
  • The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express * The information for the The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
  • Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
  • Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card
  • Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
  • Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express® Card

All information about Amex EveryDay® Credit Card and The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express has been collected independently by Blueprint.

Additional Amex Platinum benefits worth noting for your next trip

The American Express Platinum Card is loaded with benefits beyond rental cars that may also be useful for your next trip. Here are a few benefits you should know about. Enrollment is required for select benefits.

$200 hotel statement credit

Save money with an annual hotel statement credit from the Amex Platinum Card. Get up to $200 back via statement credit for prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel (The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay). These programs also include benefits like a welcome gift, complimentary upgrades when available and more.

Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors Gold elite status

Link your Marriott and Hilton hotel loyalty program accounts to your Amex Platinum Card to receive complimentary Gold elite status in both Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors. These benefits provide higher earning power on paid stays and generous benefits when staying at participating hotels.

Trip delay, cancellation and interruption insurance

When booking a trip with the Amex Platinum Card, you’re covered if your trip is delayed, canceled or interrupted. Trip delay insurance² covers eligible expenses up to $500 per trip when your flight is delayed more than six hours. Trip cancellation and interruption insurance³ reimburses you for prepaid, non-refundable reservations up to $10,000 per trip that are affected for a covered reason.

Amex Offers

Before booking your rental car, check out your card’s Amex Offers . These limited-time offers may provide special incentives for rental car reservations. Depending on your card’s profile, you may receive bonus points, discounts or statement credits when booking your car. Enrollment is required.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Yes, the Amex Platinum Card includes secondary rental car insurance¹ at no extra charge. Use your card to pay for the entire reservation to be protected against theft or damage to the vehicle.

If your lender accepts credit card payments, you can use your Amex Platinum to make your monthly payment. However, if they do accept credit card payments, lenders typically charge a fee to cover credit card transaction costs. Contact your lender to ask if they accept credit card payments and what fees they charge.

Another option is to use a balance transfer or convenience check to make your payment. If you choose this option, be sure to understand the fees and interest rate associated with the checks.

The Amex Platinum car rental benefits¹ are the best of any Amex card. While the rental car protection offered by eligible Amex cards is essentially the same, the Amex Platinum Card includes additional perks that make it the most valuable choice. These benefits include rental car elite status, travel protections and generous hotel benefits.

The Amex Platinum car rental protection is secondary.¹ However, you can upgrade to primary coverage through Amex’s Premium Car Rental Protection for one flat fee per reservation (varies based on coverage selection and location). If you choose this option, it means that you don’t have to involve your personal auto insurance policy when making an eligible claim for theft or damage of a rental car.

To learn about your credit card benefits, contact customer service, read your card’s Guide to Benefits or review the card’s marketing page. When searching for your benefits, note whether the coverage is primary or secondary and if any exclusions apply to your rental.

Yes, authorized users, spouse or domestic partners and eligible authorized drivers are covered against theft or damage when using the Amex Platinum car rental benefits.¹ To receive coverage, your Amex Platinum Card or Membership Rewards points must pay for the entire reservation.

For rates and fees for The Platinum Card® from American Express please visit this page .

¹Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

²Up to $500 per Covered Trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

³The maximum benefit amount for Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is $10,000 per Covered Trip and $20,000 per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

*The information for the Amex EveryDay® Credit Card and The Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Lee Huffman

Lee Huffman spent 18 years in banking and investments and now uses that insider knowledge to write about credit cards, travel, and other personal finance topics. Lee enjoys showing people how to travel more, spend less, and live better through the power of travel rewards. You can connect with him at BaldThoughts.com.

Ashley Barnett has been writing and editing personal finance articles for the internet since 2008. Before editing for USA TODAY Blueprint, she was the Content Director for an international media company leading the content on their suite of personal finance sites. She lives in Phoenix, AZ where you can find her rereading Harry Potter for the 100th time.

Robin Saks Frankel is a credit cards lead editor at USA TODAY Blueprint. Previously, she was a credit cards and personal finance deputy editor for Forbes Advisor. She has also covered credit cards and related content for other national web publications including NerdWallet, Bankrate and HerMoney. She's been featured as a personal finance expert in outlets including CNBC, Business Insider, CBS Marketplace, NASDAQ's Trade Talks and has appeared on or contributed to The New York Times, Fox News, CBS Radio, ABC Radio, NPR, International Business Times and NBC, ABC and CBS TV affiliates nationwide. She holds an M.S. in Business and Economics Journalism from Boston University. Follow her on Twitter at @robinsaks.

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Can Additional Cardholders add their cards to Google Wallet?

Will I need to enter my card PIN with Google Pay?

How can I keep track of purchases I’ve made with Google Pay?

Can I add the same card to more than one device?

How do I remove my card from Google Wallet?

How do I make a purchase using my Qantas Premier card in-store?

Can I continue to use my physical card if I disable Google Pay or remove my digital card from Google Pay?

If I switch devices, do I need to set up my card in Google Pay again?

How do I reverse or dispute a Google Pay transaction?

Will I continue to enjoy the same features and benefits of my Qantas Premier credit card, including points earn, when I use it for payment with Google Pay?

Do I need to have an active internet connection for Google Pay to work?

Does Google Wallet or Google Pay have access to my credit card account?

What happens if there are fraudulent transactions made using Google Pay?

What should I do if I lose my card, or my card expires and I'm issued a replacement card?

What happens if my device is lost or stolen?

Why was my request to add my card to Google Wallet declined?

Whom can I talk to for further help with Google Pay?

Which Qantas Premier credit cards can be used with Google Pay?

How do I set my Qantas Premier Card as the default card in Google Wallet?

Where can I use Google Pay?

How do I set up Google Pay and add my Qantas Premier card?

Are Google Wallet and Google Pay secure?

Which devices are compatible with Google Pay?

Instalment Plans

Can I change the term of my Instalment Plan?

How will my repayments be applied to my card?

Can I have more than one Instalment Plan?

How do I make the monthly instalment repayment?

Who can create an Instalment Plan on my card?

Does an Instalment Plan earn Qantas Points?

What happens if I return a purchase that was converted into a Statement Instalment Plan?

How do instalment plan(s) appear on my statement?

How can I track my instalment plan?

Can I pay more than my monthly instalment amount?

Why am I not eligible for a Cash Instalment Plan?

Is the instalment plan amount part of my existing credit limit?

When will I be charged my first monthly instalment?

Can I pay off my instalment plan early?

Will I be able to set up a Statement Instalment Plan if I have a direct debit set up?

What is a Statement Instalment Plan?

Will an instalment plan affect my interest-free days on my purchases?

Is there a fee to set up an instalment plan?

What happens if I miss paying the initial interest charge or monthly instalment repayment by the Payment Due Date?

Open Banking

What is Open Banking?

What information can be shared with Accredited Data Recipients (ADRs)?

How does data sharing work?

Can any institution request access to my data?

Where can I find out more about the Consumer Data Right legislation?

Financial difficulty

What if I’m finding it hard to meet my Qantas Premier credit card repayments?

Loss of a loved one

How can I tell which emails are genuine?

What do I do if I receive a suspicious phone call?

How does Qantas Money protect my Qantas Premier account?

How does Qantas Money protect my financial data?

How can I protect myself online?

What are some scams I need to be aware of?

Customer Support and Complaints

Accessibility and Disability Support - Qantas Premier credit card

Managing your cash flow during COVID-19

Family and Domestic Violence

Coronavirus update

How do I lodge a complaint relating to my Qantas Premier Credit Card?

Qantas Pay Card

Changes to Qantas Travel Money

Why is Qantas Travel Money changing to Qantas Pay?

Does my existing Qantas Travel Money card still work?

How do I join and get a Qantas Pay card?

How do I access my Qantas Travel Money account after 21 May?

Will I still earn points with Qantas Pay?

Can I use my Qantas Travel Money card as my Qantas Frequent Flyer membership card?

Can I activate my Qantas Travel Money replacement card after 21 May?

Can I activate my Qantas Travel Money card for the first time

What is changing for the Qantas Frequent Flyer membership card?

How can I access my Qantas Frequent Flyer number?

How can I access and set my Qantas Pay card PIN?

Does Qantas Pay have a digital card?

Can I schedule recurring currency loads from my nominated bank?

General information

Which currencies are available on Qantas Pay?

Who's eligible for Qantas Pay?

Is Qantas Pay a credit card or a debit card?

Does this mean that Qantas is now also a bank?

What are the benefits of Qantas Pay?

Apply and activate

How do I sign up for Qantas Pay

How do I activate my Qantas Pay card?

Will a credit check be conducted when I sign up for Qantas Pay?

Can I sign up for Qantas Pay if I have a foreign passport?

How do I use Qantas Pay?

What if the details on the Qantas Pay identity verification form are incorrect?

What if I don’t have an Australian Passport or an Australian Driver’s Licence?

What do I do if I’m unable to sign up for Qantas Pay online?

I’ve forgotten my Qantas Pay card PIN, how do I retrieve it?

What if my PIN is blocked at an ATM or in-store?

How do I set my Qantas Pay card pin?

Is my Qantas Pay card PIN different to my Qantas Frequent Flyer PIN?

How do I change my PIN?

Rates, fees and limits

What exchange rate applies to Qantas Pay?

What fees apply to Qantas Pay?

What limits apply to Qantas Pay?

Do fees apply if I don’t have the local currency on my card?

What should I do if my card is expired?

What happens if I make a purchase in a foreign currency and I don’t have enough money in that currency on my card?

Can I arrange a back-up or secondary card?

How do I cash out remaining funds on the Qantas Pay card?

How do I transfer between currencies on the Qantas Pay card?

What is a pre-authorisation?

Does the card come with Mastercard Contactless?

Do I get a line of credit or overdraft with Qantas Pay?

When to use

Where can I use Qantas Pay?

Can I use Qantas Pay if the local currency isn’t available?

Can I use my Qantas Pay card at a hotel or on a cruise?

Can Qantas Pay be used for Qantas in-flight duty free purchases?

Can I use Qantas Pay to pay for flights at qantas.com?

Using overseas

Is there anything I need to do before I go overseas?

Do I press Cheque, Savings or Credit when I make a purchase or withdraw cash using Qantas Pay?

Can I view my Qantas Pay balances at overseas ATMs?

What should I do with my card when I return from overseas?

What will happen if the local currency isn’t available to load on Qantas Pay?

Should I pay in Australian dollars instead of the local currency when I’m overseas?

Are there any countries where the Qantas Pay Card won’t work?

I’m overseas and my Qantas Pay card isn’t working

Transactions

Why has a transaction declined when I have enough funds on the card to complete the purchase?

Why would an online transaction be declined if I have enough money to complete the purchase on the card?

How long do load transactions take to appear in my account?

Contact Information

Accessibility and Disability Support - Qantas Pay

What should I do if my card is lost, stolen or damaged?

How do I lodge a complaint relating to my Qantas Pay card?

Qantas Money App

Update my Qantas Money App

How to update my Qantas Money App?

Understanding your PINs and Passwords

Can I use my fingerprint to log in?

The app doesn’t recognise my fingerprint

What if I’ve forgotten my passcode?

How do I log out?

Managing your finances

Why use the Qantas Money app?

Connecting accounts

How do I delete an account?

What does ‘pending’ mean?

I can’t see my transactions

I can’t find my bank in the list

Can I transfer money using the app?

Is it OK to enter my online banking login details?

How do I add a new account with a connected financial institution?

What type of accounts can I connect?

Why is the transaction date different to the date I made the transaction?

When are my balances and transactions updated?

Transaction categories

How are my transactions categorised?

What happens to my categories if I delete an account?

Are my categories applied to past transactions?

Notifications

What are notifications?

What kind of notifications can I set up?

How do I receive notifications?

Is there a cost for receiving notifications?

How do I set up notifications?

Can I delete or change my notifications?

Will I receive notifications if I’m not connected to the internet (e.g. Wi-Fi, 4G, etc)?

Can I view notifications I’ve previously received?

Why do I need to turn on my App Notifications settings?

Why can I see a notification in my notification history that I didn’t receive?

I’ve received a notification, but can’t see it in my history?

Can I set my own Travel Money low balance alert amount?

Why can’t I find notifications in the app?

How can I make sure that I get access to all available notifications?

What happens when new types of notifications become available?

Contact details

How do I update my contact details?

What if I notice a suspicious transaction?

Qantas Points

Missing Qantas Points?

How can I use my Qantas Points?

How do I view my Qantas Points balance?

Card Offers

Card Linking

Can I link an additional card to Card Offers?

Can I use any card that I have added to my Qantas Money App for Card offers?

Can I link another card in addition to my Qantas Premier Card?

Can I link and earn points with a debit Mastercard® or Visa® card?

Why can't I see my Card Offers on the Qantas Money website?

Why am I not receiving any/many offers?

How long will my offers be valid for?

What are the terms and conditions of the offers?

Why am I receiving offers that don't seem well matched to me?

Can I share an offer with my partner/friend etc?

Why did my friend get an offer for a specific store and I did not?

Are offers applicable to both purchases in-store and online?

What retailers are included in the program?

Earning bonus Qantas Points

Why does it take up to 15 days to receive my points?

How can I check if I have successfully earned points on an offer?

Missing Points

How do I follow up on missing points from Card Offers?

What if I forget to use my linked card, can I still earn the points?

How can I opt out of Card Offers?

All Categories ​>​ ​Qantas Premier Credit Card ​ > ​ ​Complimentary Travel Insurance ​>​ Eligibility for Cover under the policy

The FAQs are a summary only; they are not an exhaustive list of the coverage, terms, conditions or exclusions in the policy. Limits apply and vary with each plan. Please refer to the Terms and Conditions for further information about the terms, conditions, and exclusions of the policy.

How do I qualify for cover?

For Travel Insurance cover:

  • you must be 79 or younger when making travel booking; and
  • all travellers must be Australian residents; and
  • an overseas trip and: - pay the full amount of the return fight or cruise for each covered person; 
  • a domestic trip and: - spend $500 or more on accommodation; or - pay the full amount of the return flight or cruise for each covered person;

by charging the payment before the trip departure date to your Qantas Premier Card and/or use Qantas points earned on the Qantas Premier Card.

For Rental Vehicle Excess cover:

  • you must be 79 or younger when making rental vehicle booking; and
  • an Australian resident; and
  • you must have paid for the rental vehicle and the comprehensive insurance on the rental vehicle using your Qantas Premier Card.

For Card Purchase Cover and Buyers Advantage cover: (Qantas Premier Titanium Cards only)

  • you must be an Australian resident; and
  • purchase an eligible item using your Qantas Premier Titanium Card.

Who is covered under the policy?

  • Qantas Premier Titanium card members and additional card members – including their spouse and dependent children.
  • Qantas Premier Platinum and Everyday card members – including their spouse and dependent children.

Does the card member need to be on the trip for their spouse or dependent children to be covered?

Yes, the spouse and/or dependent children need to be travelling with:

  • the Premier Titanium card member or additional card member on each part of the trip; or
  • the Premier Platinum or Everyday card member on each part of the trip.

Will I be covered if my trip starts or ends outside of Australia?

No. Your trip must begin and end in Australia.

Is there a maximum age on the policy?

For Travel Insurance cover and Rental Vehicle Excess cover, you must be 79 years of age or younger when making the relevant travel booking or rental vehicle booking. .

Was this information helpful?

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  • I’ve tried Qantas’ new approach to boarding – here’s the problem

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

Group boarding is coming, but will frequent flyers get the short end of the stick?

Qantas wants to speed up boarding for flights by introducing "group boarding" on many of its domestic flights.

"Group Boarding is designed to minimise the time our customers spend waiting to board and allows them to get settled more quickly," Qantas domestic CEO Markus Svensson said.

Anything that makes getting onto a crowded flight less stressful gets a tick from me.

Other airlines do this overseas and Qantas already uses it for some international flights, but just how well will this work in reality? Let's take a look.

How will Qantas group boarding work?

Qantas boarding gate

  • Brisbane from 3 June
  • Perth from 10 June
  • Melbourne from 17 June
  • Sydney from 25 June

It will only apply to flights on Boeing 737 and Airbus A330, though that accounts for the majority of Qantas' domestic operations already.

Your boarding group will be shown on your boarding pass, whether it's in-app or printed. When a group is scheduled to board, it will be announced at the gate.

Qantas boarding pass

Group 1 will board first, followed by Group 2, Group 3 and so on to Group 6. Approaches may vary by flight and whether there are rear stairs, but typically flights will board the back rows first to avoid crowding at the front of the plane.

Crucially, the boarding pass scanners know about the group indicated on your ticket. If you try to scan before it's your group, the scanner will beep and you'll be turned away and told to wait your turn.

Will Qantas frequent flyers get special treatment?

Qantas hasn't made any announcements about how status will affect how quickly you get to board. It also says it expects to adjust the process over time.

That said, I understand that Business, Platinum and Platinum 1 passengers will be in Group 1 , while Gold passengers will be in Group 2 . That means they'll be able to board early regardless of where they're seated, and potentially nab some precious overhead cabin luggage space.

Merely being in Qantas Frequent Flyer won't nab you any extra privileges. And that's understandable, given that Qantas Frequent Flyer has over 14 million members .

That also means that the current Gold-and-above priority queues are likely to disappear for flights from these cities.

How well will group boarding actually work for Qantas?

Qantas planes

Group boarding might be new on domestic flights, but Qantas does use it on some international flights.

I flew Sydney-London on Qantas last month, and boarding by groups was already a feature.

It's a good idea in theory, but it can be messed up by inadequate communication.

For instance, on my return leg from Singapore, the crew forgot to announce that Gold and Platinum frequent flyers could board at their leisure, leading to some disgruntled passengers.

Qantas partners American Airlines and British Airways have long used this approach.

Observationally, the biggest problem is that folks constantly ignore the announcements and try to board anyway.

From that perspective, having the scanners not work until your group is allowed to board is useful.

Ultimately, the main reason for getting on board early is so you can claim space for your carry-on.

So I hope this approach also sees Qantas crack down on folks boarding with multiple oversize bags.

That really will make a difference to getting away in time.

Want to keep your frequent flyer points balance growing? Check out the latest credit card sign-up deals .

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3 dream trips you can take with 100,000 Amex Membership Rewards Points

Chris Butsch

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit  americanexpress.com  to learn more.

Let’s say you recently applied for one of the most legendary cards on the market— the Platinum Card by American Express —and scored a hefty, six-figure welcome bonus. 

As a well-informed credit card aficionado, you know that those American Express Membership Rewards Points are worth a measly 0.6 cents per point if you opt for a cash-back redemption, but can be worth a lot more if saved toward your next vacation. But where should you go? 

Amex has so many transfer partners that it can be genuinely tricky to a) consider which partners will maximize the value of your points and b) plan out your next adventure from there. That’s why Fortune Recommends decided to do the hard work for you. From petting wombats outside Sydney to neon-soaked tours of Tokyo, here are three dream trips you can take with 100,000 Membership Rewards Points.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

See Rates and Fees

Intro bonus

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

Reward Rates

  • 5X Earn 5x Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel (up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year)
  • 5X Earn 5x Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel
  • 1X Earn 1x points on other eligible purchases
  • Packed with valuable potential credits for digital entertainment, Uber Cash, Walmart+ membership, and more.
  • Airport lounge access with a larger network than any other card
  • Membership Rewards are valuable due to their flexibility.
  • The multiple potential credits can be cumbersome to track.
  • Sky-high annual fee
  • Some of the perks can be hard to use if they don’t align with your lifestyle.

Other benefits

  • Travel benefits including hotel and car rental chain statuses, car rental insurance, trip cancellation/interruption and travel delay protection
  • Consumer protections including extended warranty and return protection

1. Order life-changing ramen in Tokyo

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

If you’ve read our guide on the best redemption options for Membership Rewards, you’ll know that your best option—by far—is to transfer your points to an airline or hotel loyalty program. 

Amex has 21 transfer partners as of this writing, including 18 airlines and three hotel chains (complete list below). Unless otherwise stated, you can transfer 1,000 Membership Rewards Points (MRP) in exchange for 1,000 partner points, meaning a 1:1 transfer rate.

Airline partners

  • AeroMexico (1,000 MRP to 1,600 AeroMexico Rewards Points)
  • AIR FRANCE KLM
  • ANA Mileage Club
  • Avianca LifeMiles
  • British Airways Executive Club
  • Cathay Pacific
  • Delta Air Lines
  • Emirates Skywards
  • Etihad Guest
  • HawaiianMiles
  • Iberia Plus
  • JetBlue TrueBlue (250 MRP to 200 TrueBlue points)
  • Qantas Frequent Flyer (500 MRP to 500 Qantas Points)
  • Qatar Airways Privilege Club
  • Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer
  • Virgin Atlantic Flying Club

Hotel partners

  • Choice Privileges
  • Hilton Honors (1,000 MRP to 2,000 Hilton Honors Points)
  • Marriott Bonvoy

Now, how does this chart help you order comfortingly hot, gloriously authentic ramen in Tokyo? 

Well, the trick to redeeming Membership Rewards Points is to know which partner has the most valuable points. Japan’s largest airline ANA, for example, has points that can sometimes be worth well over 2 cents per point (CPP) each. That means a flight from JFK to Tokyo—which would normally cost you well over $800—may cost you as little as 40,000 ANA Mileage Club Miles round trip . See the example from my own research below:

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

That means if you have 100,000 Membership Rewards points at your disposal–and you’re flexible on dates–you and a companion could fly all the way around the world with 20,000 Membership Rewards points to spare. 

From there, you can take a Mt. Fuji tour by day…

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

… and explore the world’s largest city by night, sipping tonkotsu broth before you embark on your Winter Illumination Tour.

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

Of course, 100,000 Membership Rewards Points won’t cover 100% of your expenses the entire time you’re in Tokyo—but speaking from firsthand experience, getting to Tokyo is by far the most expensive part. Once you’re there, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find that an authentic bowl of ramen costs around ¥1200 or roughly $7.60. 

Oh, and if you’re looking to earn a generous rate of 4X Membership Rewards Points per dollar spent as you satisfy your inner foodie, remember to bring your American Express Gold Card for its dining rewards.

American Express® Gold Card

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

  • 4x Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at restaurants (including takeout and delivery in the U.S.)
  • 4x Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1x).
  • 3x Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com booked directly with the airline or on amextravel.com.
  • 1x Earn 1X points on all other eligible purchases
  • High rewards at U.S. supermarkets, dining in and dining out.
  • Up to $120 a year in credits for eligible dining ($10 each month).
  • Up to $120 a year in Uber Cash ($10 each month), good for Uber rides or Uber Eats.
  • The $250 annual fee might be unpalatable to some.
  • The dining credits and Uber Cash credits are doled out monthly, in $10 increments.
  • Outside of dining, U.S. supermarkets and airfare, the card’s earnings are plain vanilla.
  • Travel benefits including car rental insurance, trip cancellation/interruption and travel delay protection

All that being said, if you’d prefer to explore a sprawling, adventure-rich metropolis closer to home, why not spend your hard-earned MRP in the Big Apple? Here’s how.

2. Explore NYC, starting five blocks from Central Park

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

With New York being as expensive as it is, you might already be wondering: how far can 100,000 MRP really take you once you’re there? 

Turns out, it can get you within shouting distance of Central Park—and you won’t have to live like the cast of Rent, either. 

Thanks to a 1,000-to-2,000 transfer ratio, your 100,000 Membership Rewards Points can instantly become 200,000 Hilton Honors points. If you can save a mere 500 more Membership Rewards Points/1,000 Hilton Honors points, you’ll have exactly enough in the bank to book a three-night stay at the New York Hilton Midtown based on what my research turned up. 

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

Among the seemingly billions of hotel options in New York, what makes the New York Hilton Midtown special? 

Well, not only is it insanely good value for New York lodging—it’s also within a roughly 10-minute walk of Times Square, Rockefeller Center and Central Park. 

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

That means you and your companion can follow in the footsteps of Carrie Bradshaw, Joey Tribbiani and Buddy the Elf without ever having to hail a cab. And while a three-nighter in a New York Hilton will quickly wipe out the stash of Membership Rewards you’re working with in this example, you don’t have to pay another penny to enjoy the natural splendor of Central Park in autumn. 

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

Now, maybe you’re thinking Tokyo and New York are fine—but you want to spend your 100,000 Membership Rewards Points on something you feel is truly unique and special. Something you’ve never done before. Something you can tell your friends about and they’ll go you did WHAT?

If so, allow me to introduce you to the mighty Australian wombat. 

3. See the opera in Sydney and maybe pet a wombat

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

Beyond ANA and Hilton, another Amex partner with favorable transfer ratios is Australia’s own Qantas Airways Limited. 

After a quick search, I found a flight option from San Francisco to Sydney for $1,152 or 41,900 Miles plus $99 cash. That means 41,900 Miles covered $1,053 of the fare, or provided over 2.5 CPP each. 

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

Now, to set expectations, that’s 41,900 Miles one-way—so you’ll likely have to pay something out of pocket to fly both you and a companion “down under,” as well as cover lodging. 

But 100,000 Membership Rewards points (transferred 1:1 to Qantas) will still foot a massive chunk of the bill, and for further consideration, look who will be waiting for you: 

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

Yes, in addition to ‘roos and snakes, Australia is home to the adorable, friendly wombat. You can take a day tour from Sydney to meet both kangaroos and wombats up close before enjoying a lunch that I’d guess must involve some degree of vegemite. 

Then, in the evening, why not a twilight cruise through Sydney harbor? 

does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

Yes, I confess again that 100,000 Membership Rewards Points won’t get you and your plus-one all the way to Australia and back, nor will it fully cover lodging while you’re there. But I wanted to highlight this option nonetheless to show just how much value Qantas is willing to give you for your Membership Rewards Points—and point out that a wombat-filled Aussie adventure could be well within your financial reach. 

The takeaway

Amex’s long list of transfer partners is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it gives you tons of options. But on the other hand, it gives you tons of options , which can make choosing and planning the perfect trip rather tricky. 

Hopefully one day AI will help us spend our credit card rewards like a robot travel agent, running endless calculations to find the ideal redemption path. But until then, it’s a more manual process. 

At least it’s a massively rewarding one, with wombats, cherry blossoms and $1 New York slices awaiting our arrival. 

About the author

Chris is a two-time author, keynote speaker and credit card nerd helping Gens Y and Z build better lives through financial fluency and positive psychology. His writing has been featured in Fortune, Fortune Recommends, Forbes Advisor, U.S. News, ConsumerAffairs, Money Under 30 and Investor Junkie. Chris got his start in 2015 when he decided to quit his corporate job, travel to 41 countries and ask 1,000 people what happiness means to them. In 2019 he did a TEDx talk revealing his findings, and still speaks to college students today through a partnership with CAMPUSPEAK. Chris lives in Atlanta with his partner Holly and his rescue pup, Joy.

EDITORIAL DISCLOSURE : The advice, opinions, or rankings contained in this article are solely those of the Fortune Recommends ™ editorial team. This content has not been reviewed or endorsed by any of our affiliate partners or other third parties.

IMAGES

  1. Travel Insurance

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  2. Your in-depth guide to Qantas Car Insurance

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  3. Your in-depth guide to Qantas Travel Insurance

    does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

  4. Qantas car insurance review

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  5. How to check out the travel insurance on Qantas?

    does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

  6. American Express Qantas Ultimate Review

    does qantas travel insurance cover hire car

COMMENTS

  1. International Comprehensive Travel Insurance

    International Travel Insurance. Comprehensive single trip cover from $99 1 for overseas travel. Includes a range of COVID-19 benefits. Earn up to 15,000 Qantas Points with our BIGGEST offer ever. Ends 28 August. 2. All policies earn Qantas Points. To earn the maximum amount of points a min. spend of $1,000 applies.

  2. Travel Insurance

    Australian Comprehensive. Up to $5,000 trip cancellation costs (including COVID-19 diagnosis) Rental car excess cover up to $8,000 per policy. Luggage and personal effects cover up to $5,000. Children under 12 covered for free. Earn up to 15,000 Qantas Points when you buy a new policy by 28 August. Plus earn 1 point per $1 spent on your premium.

  3. Vehicle hire insurance and excess

    No, rental vehicle insurance is not included in the vehicle hire rate, however you can purchase rental vehicle insurance directly from the vehicle provider when you collect the vehicle, to reduce your excess. For residents of Australia, Qantas Travel Insurance offers a range of travel insurance policies which include cover for rental car insurance excess.

  4. Does Travel Insurance Cover Car Hire Excess?

    Rental vehicle excesses range from around $2,000-$8,000. Travel insurance policies differ in how much they cover you for though the minimum for most is $2,000. Some go further than others. For ...

  5. PDF Qantas Premier Credit Card Complimentary Travel Insurance Terms and

    4. Global Hire Car Excess Waiver Cover is activated and effective when You take legal control of the Hire Car and the entire cost is charged to Your Qantas Premier Credit Card Account 5. Golfers' Insurance Cover is activated and effective when you hold a Qantas Premier Credit Card Account. This cover provides insurance against theft

  6. Vehicle hire insurance and excess

    Is vehicle hire insurance and excess covered in the vehicle hire amount? : No, rental vehicle insurance is not included in the vehicle hire rate, however you can purchase rental vehicle insurance directly from the vehicle provider when you collect the vehicle, to reduce your excess. For residents of Australia, Qantas Travel Insurance offers a range of travel insurance policies which include ...

  7. What travel insurance cover is included with my card?

    Get peace of mind - with complimentary travel insurance for yourself, your spouse and your dependents travelling with you, when you book using your card or using Qantas Points earned on your card. You'll get medical emergency expenses cover up to $1,000,000, travel cancellation cover up to $20,000 and much more. Qantas Premier Titanium ...

  8. Your in-depth guide to Qantas Travel Insurance

    Qantas Travel Insurance is back, with options for comprehensive Australian and international options that include limited COVID-19 cover. ... But if you do need medical cover overseas, car rental excess cover or trip cancellation and luggage protection cover around Australia, then these policies might still be useful. ...

  9. Qantas Travel Insurance Review

    Our Verdict. Qantas Travel Insurance is an above-average choice of insurance for travelling Australians, offering unlimited medical coverage and good Covid-19 cover for both medical diagnoses and ...

  10. Vehicles important information

    When booking vehicles through Qantas, it's important you're familiar with the following information. We've partnered with our preferred car providers, Avis, Budget, Hertz and Thrifty to provide a quick, convenient and easy-to-use vehicle hire booking service. All vehicle bookings made on qantas.com are subject to suppliers rental agreements on ...

  11. PDF Premier Titanium Complimentary Travel Insurance

    Up to $20,000 per Covered Person, up to a maximum of $40,000 for all Covered Persons. 5D Cancellation of Domestic TravelUp to $3,000 in total for all Covered Persons. 6. Global Hire Car Excess Waive Up to $5,000 per Covered Person or Qantas Premier Titanium Credit Card Account, subject to $250 excess.

  12. Credit Card Complimentary Insurances

    Please refer the new ANZ First Credit Card Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet for more information. If you have any questions about how the changes may apply to you, please contact Allianz Global Assistance on 1300 135 271 (within Australia) or by email to [email protected].

  13. Car rental excess covered by travel insurance

    You dont need Gold to get the car cover either: ANZ Gold cardholders are automatically enrolled in ANZ Car Rental Cover at no additional cost. All other cardholders can obtain ANZ Car Rental Cover for a yearly fee of $24 (inc. GST). The travel insurance covers overseas travel only, not domestic, but does include F/F points cover which is pretty ...

  14. Does Auto Travel Insurance Work for Road Trips?

    IMG's iTravelInsured Travel SE plan came out significantly cheaper than competitors' plans at just $100.43. This includes primary rental car coverage and a whole host of trip protections. Pros ...

  15. Has anyone benefited from Travel Insurance (CC or Qantas)

    ClassicNegative. • 6 mo. ago. Partner ended up in the ICU in Peru last September after a near-death experience with altitude sickness. Insurance was through Qantas, and they were absolutely phenomenal. He spent a week in the ICU, a week in the regular ward and had to be medically flown from Cusco down to Lima.

  16. What You Need to Know about Rental Car Reimbursement Coverage

    Add-on rental car insurance refers to 4 types of optional coverage you can accept or turn down when you rent a car: collision damage waiver, supplemental liability insurance, personal accident insurance, and personal effects coverage. If you opt for any of them, these short-term coverages only cover you in your rental car for the length of the ...

  17. American Express Platinum Rental Car Benefits Guide 2024

    The American Express Platinum card covers all of these costs.¹. These benefits also include accidental death and dismemberment coverage up to $300,000, accidental injury coverage up to $300,000 ...

  18. Eligibility for Cover under the policy

    For Travel Insurance cover: you must be 79 or younger when making travel booking; and. all travellers must be Australian residents; and. you are either going on: an overseas trip and: - pay the full amount of the return fight or cruise for each covered person; a domestic trip and: - spend $500 or more on accommodation; or.

  19. I've tried Qantas' new approach to boarding

    Qantas is introducing group boarding for domestic flights in four cities initially: It will only apply to flights on Boeing 737 and Airbus A330, though that accounts for the majority of Qantas ...

  20. Annual Multi Trip Travel Insurance

    Our Annual Multi Trip travel insurance provides cover for an unlimited number of trips within Australia and overseas in a 12-month period. Get a quote online. ... Rental car insurance excess if you have an accident or if the car is stolen. ... Qantas Travel Insurance is issued by AIG Australia Limited ABN 93 004 727 753, AFSL 381686 ("AIG

  21. Best Covid-19 Travel Insurance Plans Of 2024

    Best Covid Travel Insurance Policies. Travel Insured - Worldwide Trip Protector. WorldTrips - Atlas Journey Premier/Atlas Journey Preferred. Seven Corners - Trip Protection Choice/Trip ...

  22. Does Qantas Travel Insurance cover COVID-19?

    Yes, all our plans have COVID-19 benefits, but the types of benefits and benefit limits vary between international and domestic plans. COVID-19 coverage includes: Trip Cancellation Costs: Cover if you need to cancel or amend your trip due to yourself or someone you're travelling with on the same policy being diagnosed with COVID-19.

  23. Where to travel with 100,000 Amex Membership Rewards Points

    Future 50. World's Most Admired Companies. See All Rankings. Transferring Amex Membership Rewards Points to an airline or hotel partner can help you take an exciting trip internationally or ...

  24. Help & Support

    Car Insurance Does Qantas Travel Insurance cover COVID-19? Yes, all our plans have COVID-19 benefits, but the types of benefits and benefit limits vary between international and domestic plans. ... What does home insurance cover? A Qantas Home Insurance policy covers you for the loss or damage (up to the amount insured) to your residential ...