Upgrading From Delta Gold To Platinum: Is It Worth It?

If you currently have the Delta Gold SkyMiles credit card and are considering an upgrade, you’ve likely wondered whether moving up to the Platinum version is worthwhile. With tempting perks like complimentary upgrades, Sky Club access, and bonus miles, the Platinum card certainly seems appealing.

But before requesting an upgrade, it’s smart to compare the key benefits to see if the annual fee hike makes sense for your travel habits.

Delta Gold vs. Platinum Benefits Comparison

Earning Rates on Purchases

One of the primary factors to consider when upgrading from Delta Gold to Platinum is the difference in earning rates on purchases. With the Delta Gold card, members earn 2 miles for every dollar spent on eligible Delta purchases and 1 mile for every dollar spent on other purchases.

On the other hand, the Delta Platinum card offers a higher earning rate of 3 miles for every dollar spent on eligible Delta purchases and 1.5 miles for every dollar spent on other purchases. This means that upgrading to the Platinum card can significantly boost your miles accumulation, especially if you frequently fly with Delta.

Annual Fee

Another important consideration is the annual fee associated with each card. The Delta Gold card has an annual fee of $99, while the Delta Platinum card has a higher annual fee of $195. However, it’s essential to look beyond just the fee amount and consider the additional benefits that come with the Platinum card.

These benefits can often outweigh the higher fee, making it a worthwhile investment for frequent Delta travelers.

Elite Qualifying Miles

Elite Qualifying Miles (EQMs) play a crucial role in achieving elite status with Delta’s SkyMiles program. Upgrading to the Delta Platinum card offers the advantage of earning more EQMs compared to the Delta Gold card.

For example, the Platinum card provides a boost of 10,000 MQMs (Medallion Qualification Miles) after spending $25,000 in a calendar year, with an additional 10,000 MQMs after reaching $50,000 in spending.

These bonus MQMs can help you reach elite status faster, unlocking a range of exclusive benefits and privileges.

First Checked Bag Free

One of the most popular perks of Delta co-branded credit cards is the ability to check your first bag for free. Both the Delta Gold and Platinum cards offer this benefit for the primary cardholder and up to eight companions traveling on the same reservation.

However, the Platinum card goes a step further by extending this benefit to additional cardholders on the account. If you frequently travel with family or friends, this can result in significant savings on baggage fees.

Delta Platinum’s Standout Benefits

When considering whether to upgrade from Delta Gold to Platinum, it’s important to evaluate the standout benefits that come with the Platinum card. These benefits can make a significant difference in your travel experience and may make the upgrade well worth it.

Complimentary Upgrades

One of the main perks of Delta Platinum is the opportunity for complimentary upgrades. As a Platinum cardholder, you have a higher priority for upgrades to Delta One and First Class seats. This means that you have a greater chance of enjoying a more comfortable and luxurious flying experience without having to pay extra for an upgrade.

Who wouldn’t want to sip champagne and stretch out in a spacious seat without breaking the bank?

Sky Club Access

Another standout benefit of the Delta Platinum card is access to Delta Sky Club lounges. These lounges offer a haven of comfort and convenience amidst the hustle and bustle of the airport. Enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages, free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and even shower facilities in some locations.

Whether you need a quiet space to work or simply want to relax before your flight, the Sky Club lounges are a fantastic perk that can make your travel experience more enjoyable.

Global Entry/TSA PreCheck Fee Credit

For those who travel frequently, the Global Entry/TSA PreCheck fee credit is a standout benefit of the Delta Platinum card. With this benefit, you can receive up to $100 in statement credits for the application fee for either Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.

These programs allow for expedited security screenings and can save you valuable time at the airport. Plus, with the fee credit, you essentially get these benefits for free. It’s a win-win!

Is Upgrading to the Platinum Card Worth It?

Upgrading from the Delta Gold card to the Platinum card is a decision that many Delta flyers contemplate. The Platinum card offers additional benefits and perks, but is it really worth the upgrade? Let’s take a closer look at the benefits and consider who would benefit most from upgrading.

For Occasional Delta Flyers

If you only fly Delta occasionally, upgrading to the Platinum card may not be worth it. The Delta Gold card already offers a range of benefits, including priority boarding, free checked bags, and access to Delta Sky Club lounges.

These perks are often sufficient for occasional travelers who don’t fly frequently enough to fully utilize the additional benefits offered by the Platinum card.

However, if you find yourself flying Delta more frequently or if you have upcoming trips that require additional perks, upgrading to the Platinum card could be beneficial. The Platinum card offers additional benefits such as complimentary access to Delta Sky Club lounges, priority security screening, and an annual companion certificate.

These perks can enhance your travel experience and provide added value for frequent flyers.

For Frequent Delta Travelers

For frequent Delta travelers, upgrading to the Platinum card can be a game-changer. The Platinum card provides access to the Delta Sky Club lounges, which offer a comfortable and relaxing environment to unwind before your flight.

With complimentary drinks, snacks, and Wi-Fi, the lounges can greatly enhance your travel experience.

In addition to lounge access, the Platinum card also offers a number of other valuable benefits for frequent travelers. These include priority boarding, which allows you to board the plane early and secure overhead bin space for your carry-on luggage.

The card also provides an annual companion certificate, allowing you to bring a friend or family member on a Delta flight for a reduced fare.

Furthermore, the Platinum card offers additional travel insurance coverage, including trip cancellation and interruption insurance, baggage insurance, and car rental loss and damage insurance. These extra protections can provide peace of mind for frequent travelers.

Ultimately, whether upgrading from the Delta Gold to the Platinum card is worth it depends on your travel habits and preferences. If you fly Delta frequently and value the additional perks and benefits offered by the Platinum card, it could be a worthwhile upgrade.

However, if you only fly Delta occasionally and the benefits of the Gold card are sufficient for your needs, it may not be necessary to upgrade.

Conclusion

Ultimately, whether or not upgrading your Delta Gold card to the Platinum version makes sense depends largely on your individual travel habits. If you only fly Delta once or twice per year, the extra perks likely aren’t worth the higher annual fee.

But for road warriors loyal to Delta, the upgrade brings some very valuable add-ons that can make travel more seamless and comfortable.