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Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card vs USAA Rewards American Express
Both are well-respected travel cards. The Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card comes from Cardless at $249/yr; the USAA Rewards American Express from USAA at $0/yr. Below: side-by-side specs, an opinionated verdict, and the FAQs people actually ask before applying.
Bottom line
If you're not sure you'll use premium perks, start with the USAA Rewards American Express, its annual fee is significantly lower and the bonus values are similar. Upgrade later if you find yourself using the higher-tier benefits.
| Feature | Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card | USAA Rewards American Express |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | $249 | $0 |
| Sign-up bonus | Not advertised | 2,500 USAA Rewards points |
| Bonus value (est.) | - | $25 |
| Min spend to unlock bonus | - | $0 in 0 mo |
| Issuer | Cardless | USAA |
| Card category | travel | rewards |
| Best earning category (Airline) | 3x | 1x |
| Transfer partners | None | None |
| Headline benefits |
Read the full review
Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card
$249/yr ·
Read the full review
USAA Rewards American Express
$0/yr · 2,500 USAA Rewards points
Editorial take: USAA Rewards American Express
Common questions
- Which card has the bigger sign-up bonus, Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card or USAA Rewards American Express?
- The USAA Rewards American Express has a public bonus (2,500 USAA Rewards points, worth roughly $25), while the Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card doesn't advertise one right now.
- Is the Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card's $249 annual fee worth it compared to the USAA Rewards American Express?
- At $249/yr, the Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card is in the mid-fee tier. Compare its specific perks (lounge access, travel credits, primary rental insurance) to the USAA Rewards American Express's, pick the one whose perks you'll actually use.
- Can I have both the Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card and USAA Rewards American Express?
- Yes, since they're from different issuers (Cardless and USAA) the application rules don't conflict. Many points enthusiasts hold both, they pair well when one earns flexible bank points and the other earns a different currency.
- Should I get the Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card or the USAA Rewards American Express first?
- Get the one whose sign-up bonus you can hit comfortably without overspending. Avianca LifeMiles American Express Elite Card: no published min spend. USAA Rewards American Express: $0 in 0 months. Pick the easier minimum spend if you're new to points; pick the larger bonus if you have planned big purchases coming up.
Card details on this page reflect the most recent data we've verified against the issuer's own site. Sign-up bonuses and fees can change at any time, confirm the current offer on the issuer's page before applying.