American Express integrates Airbnb listings into its travel platform

American Express and Airbnb have announced a strategic partnership that will expand accommodation options for eligible United States card members. The collaboration allows customers to book stays through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App while earning rewards, according to a joint press release issued on Thursday, 22 October.

The integration introduces more than one million Airbnb listings to the American Express travel platform. This addition enables card members to choose from a diverse range of properties, including city apartments, family homes and premium private residences, alongside the existing hotel offerings provided by American Express. The companies stated that the move is designed to give customers greater choice and additional methods for accumulating points during their travels.

Eligible card members can earn Membership Rewards points on prepaid bookings when specific terms are met. Furthermore, United States Consumer and Business Platinum Card holders are entitled to an annual $600 lodging credit and a new $250 statement credit as part of the agreement. Howard Grosfield, group president of U.S. consumer services at American Express, said the partnership provides members with more choice alongside the rewards and service that define the brand. Juan David Borrero, head of partnerships at Airbnb, added that the collaboration helps people see more of the world by making travel more rewarding.

Recent industry data suggests that rewards and benefits are significant factors in consumer card selection. A PYMNTS Intelligence report found that one in four cardholders rotate between different credit cards to maximise their rewards. The report noted that cards with robust rewards systems are recommended more often to friends and family, serving as a stronger incentive than financial or referral-based systems.

This latest development follows several recent initiatives by American Express to enhance its value proposition. The company recently teamed up with Bread Financial to launch an NFL-related rewards program and enabled U.S. card members to pay with points on everyday purchases within Apple Pay’s checkout experience. Additionally, American Express partnered with Fanatics to launch a co-branded credit card, adding sports-focused rewards options and deepening its presence across Fanatics’ commerce and events ecosystem.