If you’ve got an American Express Gold Card in your wallet, you’re probably familiar with its impressive array of perks.
But one often-overlooked benefit is its rental car insurance coverage. Is it any good?
What does it actually cover?
And is it enough for a road trip in the UK or abroad? Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty and see if it’s as golden as its name suggests.
What Is Amex Gold Rental Car Insurance?
American Express Gold Card offers rental car insurance as part of its cardmember benefits.
This isn’t full-blown car insurance but a secondary coverage called Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance.
It acts as a backup to your primary insurance policy and can save you from costly repair or replacement fees if your rental car is damaged or stolen.
What Does It Cover?
Here’s a breakdown of what the Amex Gold rental car insurance typically includes:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coverage Type | Secondary coverage (kicks in after your personal insurance) |
| Damage Coverage | Covers physical damage and theft of the rental vehicle |
| Loss of Use | Pays for the rental company’s lost income if the car is out of service |
| Eligible Countries | Most countries worldwide (but some exclusions apply, like Australia & New Zealand) |
| Excluded Vehicles | Luxury cars, antique cars, motorcycles, RVs, trucks |
| Rental Period | Typically up to 30 consecutive days |
Before you book that snazzy convertible, check if it’s on the excluded list. Spoiler: it probably is.
What It Doesn’t Cover
It’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Here’s what you won’t get:
- Liability Coverage: You’ll still need separate insurance for injuries or property damage to others.
- Personal Injury Protection: Medical expenses aren’t covered under this plan.
- Luxury & Exotic Cars: No Ferraris or Bentleys here—they’re considered high-risk.
- Violations: Any damage incurred while breaking rental agreements (e.g., drunk driving) isn’t covered.
How to Use It Effectively
Here’s a practical guide to making the most of your Amex Gold rental car insurance:
- Decline the Rental Company’s CDW/LDW: To activate Amex coverage, you’ll need to say no to the Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) or Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) offered by the rental company.
- Pay with Your Amex Gold Card: The insurance only applies if the entire rental transaction is made with the card.
- Keep Rental Agreements Handy: In case of a claim, you’ll need documents like the rental agreement and repair invoices.
- Report Claims Promptly: Notify Amex immediately if there’s an incident. They’ll guide you through the claims process.
Don’t try to be James Bond by off-roading in your Aston Martin rental. Amex won’t cover shaken (or stirred) chassis damage.
Practical Scenarios
Let’s put this into perspective with real-life situations:
Scenario 1: Scraped Bumper in Spain
You rent a car in Barcelona, and a rogue shopping trolley leaves a dent. Here’s how Amex Gold helps:
- Covers the repair costs (after your primary insurance claim, if applicable).
- Saves you from paying the rental company’s excessive fees.
Scenario 2: Stolen Car in the US
Your rental car gets stolen in Los Angeles. Amex Gold steps in to cover the replacement cost (up to the policy limits).
Comparison With Other Cards
How does Amex Gold stack up against other cards? Here’s a quick look:
| Card | Rental Coverage Type | Key Differentiator |
| Amex Gold | Secondary | Includes theft and loss of use coverage |
| Chase Sapphire Preferred | Primary | No need for personal insurance to kick in |
| Capital One Venture | Secondary | Broad international coverage |
Considerations
- Primary vs. Secondary Coverage: If you already have auto insurance, Amex Gold might be sufficient. For those without a personal policy, a card with primary coverage (like Chase Sapphire Preferred) may be better.
- Travel Frequency: If you’re a frequent traveller, the coverage can save you a bundle over time.
- Vehicle Type: Stick to standard cars to ensure coverage applies.
Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?
Amex Gold rental car insurance is a solid backup for travellers who want peace of mind without shelling out extra for rental company insurance.
While it doesn’t cover everything, the benefits can add up, especially for frequent renters. Just make sure to read the fine print and stick to eligible vehicles and regions.
Remember, Amex Gold’s insurance can cover a lot, but it won’t cover your pride if you return the rental with sand-filled carpets. (Yes, the beach was totally worth it.)
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway in the Cotswolds or a cross-country adventure in Europe, understanding your Amex Gold benefits ensures you’re covered when the unexpected happens.
Now, go forth and rent—responsibly!
