The Best of Both Worlds: How the Venture X and Amex Platinum Power My Travel

When it comes to travel credit cards, there are endless options with a little bit of something for everyone. For me, I decided to have the best of both worlds and grab Capital One’s Venture X and American Express’ Platinum cards. Yes, the combined annual fees total nearly $1,300, but for the way I travel and live, the perks from both cards make that number feel far more like an investment than a cost.

The Venture X is my foundation. It’s the card that quietly pays for itself every single year. The $300 annual travel credit, which is easy to use through Capital One Travel, immediately offsets a large portion of the fee. Add in the 10,000 anniversary bonus miles — worth at least $100 — and the card essentially breaks even before I even swipe it. From there, everything else feels like upside. Unlimited Priority Pass lounge access, Capital One Lounge access, strong travel protections, and simple 2x miles on everyday purchases make the Venture X my go-to for both travel and daily spending. It’s practical, powerful, and incredibly easy to justify.

The American Express Platinum, on the other hand, is where the experience comes in. This is the card that elevates travel from functional to memorable. The $200 airline fee credit, $200 hotel credit, Uber credits, digital entertainment credits, and CLEAR credit all stack up quickly when used intentionally. One of my favorite perks, though, is the Resy credit. As someone who enjoys dining out and discovering new restaurants while traveling, having statement credits tied to Resy reservations feels like a luxury I actually use — not just a benefit that sounds good on paper.

Lounge access is another reason the Platinum stays in my wallet. Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs when flying Delta, and Priority Pass lounges around the world turn airports into places I don’t rush through, but actually enjoy. Pair that with elite hotel status at Hilton and Marriott, and trips feel smoother from check-in to checkout.

Together, the Venture X and Amex Platinum balance each other perfectly. One delivers unbeatable value and simplicity; the other delivers premium experiences and lifestyle perks. For me, having both isn’t about showing off — it’s about traveling smarter, more comfortably, and with intention. When used the right way, these two cards don’t just justify their fees — they enhance the life I’m building.