Unlock Travel Perks with the Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex Card

The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card is an excellent choice for casual Delta travelers seeking valuable benefits without a hefty price tag. With perks such as a complimentary first checked bag and priority boarding for you and up to eight companions, this card can be a game-changer for infrequent flyers looking to save on Delta flights.

For those considering a travel rewards credit card, the Delta SkyMiles Gold Amex stands out among the various options offered by Delta. It provides a solid balance of benefits for a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, transitioning to a $150 annual fee thereafter (see rates and fees).

To increase your chances of approval, it’s advisable to have a good to excellent credit score. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the card’s features and why it might be worth your consideration.

Welcome Offer and Bonus Miles

New cardmembers can earn a generous welcome bonus of 80,000 SkyMiles after spending $3,000 on eligible purchases within the first six months of membership. This limited-time offer ends on October 29. According to TPG’s September 2025 valuations, these miles are valued at approximately 1.15 cents each, translating to a value of around $920.

It’s important to note that American Express has a once-per-lifetime policy regarding welcome bonuses. If you’ve previously held this card or a prior version, you may not be eligible for the current offer. Amex may also evaluate other factors, including the number of American Express cards you’ve opened or closed, which can affect your eligibility.

If you’re unsure about your eligibility for the welcome offer, Amex will notify you before conducting a hard credit inquiry, allowing you to withdraw your application if necessary. Pay close attention to any notifications during the application process to avoid surprises.

Travel Benefits and Perks

One of the standout features of the Delta Gold Amex is the first checked bag free benefit. Cardmembers and up to eight travel companions on the same reservation can enjoy this perk when flying on Delta-marketed and -operated flights. Notably, you don’t have to use the Delta Amex Gold Card to pay for the flights to receive this benefit.

In addition to the free checked bag and priority boarding (Zone 5), Delta Gold Amex cardmembers enjoy several other benefits, including:

– Earn Delta SkyMiles: Cardholders earn 2.3% back on eligible Delta purchases, dining at restaurants worldwide (including U.S. takeout and delivery), and U.S. supermarket purchases. For all other purchases, you’ll earn 1.15% back.
– Delta Flight Credit: If you spend $10,000 in a calendar year, you can receive up to $200 in Delta flight credits, making it a great option for frequent travelers.
– Purchase Protections: The card offers protections against unforeseen charges, which can help mitigate the stress of unexpected expenses during your travels.

Redeeming SkyMiles

The most straightforward way to use your Delta SkyMiles is by booking award flights on Delta and its partner airlines. However, be aware that Delta employs a dynamic pricing model for award flights, meaning that redemption rates can vary significantly. This variability makes it difficult to predict the number of miles needed for a specific flight.

Despite this, there are still some sweet spots within the Delta SkyMiles program. For instance, Delta frequently runs mileage flash sales that offer discounted rates on economy and even Delta One award flights. Additionally, you can redeem SkyMiles for flights on partner airlines, including SkyTeam alliance members like Air France and Korean Air, as well as non-alliance partners like WestJet.

Beyond flights, SkyMiles can also be used for various other rewards, such as premium drinks in Delta Sky Clubs. However, these alternative redemptions typically yield a lower return compared to booking flights.

Is the Delta Gold Amex Right for You?

If your primary goal is to enjoy the benefits of a free first checked bag and priority boarding on Delta flights at a low annual fee, the Delta Gold Amex is likely your best option. However, if your travel goals differ, you might want to explore other credit card options.

For a broader perspective, consider checking out our complete list of the best travel credit cards and American Express cards to find one that aligns with your specific needs.

While the Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card may not offer the most lucrative earning rates, it remains a valuable choice for travelers due to its appealing welcome offer and Delta-specific benefits. If you typically check a bag on Delta flights at least five times a year, the card can be a worthwhile investment.

Final Thoughts

The Points Guy believes that credit cards can significantly enhance your travel experiences by allowing you to leverage everyday spending for rewards that might otherwise be out of reach. Our editorial team is committed to providing comprehensive content and comparisons to help you find the right card to achieve your travel goals.

If you’re ready to apply for the Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card, you can do so through the official application link. For details on rates and fees, you can find more information on the American Express website.

Remember, when you apply for a new credit card through our site and are approved, we may receive compensation from our partners, which can influence how or where these products are presented. However, our editorial content is crafted independently and is not influenced by any credit card issuer or partner prior to publication. For further details, please review our advertising policy and product review methodology.