Your Secret (Logistical) Travel Weapon?

Most people associate Amazon Prime with fast shipping and streaming services. But for savvy travelers, it’s a hidden gem. Whether you’re exploring the U.S. or venturing abroad, your Prime membership can unlock a range of benefits that extend far beyond your doorstep.

Note to self: I need to stop. Amazon has said it’s shipped 178 packages to me this year.

Domestic Travel: Prime Time for Convenience

• Save on Transportation Costs: Let’s take Hawaii as an example. If you’re staying in Waikiki and need to get to the nearest Best Buy, you’re looking at a roughly 10-mile trip, which can easily cost $30 or more each way in a rideshare. And if you’re trying to get to a Walmart, it’s even further – about 14 miles from Waikiki, with similar costs. By using Amazon Prime, you not only save on the cost of those rides, but you also avoid the hassle of hauling heavy purchases back to your hotel or rental.
• Remote Destinations Made Easy: Amazon Prime’s fast shipping is a lifesaver in remote areas with limited shopping options. For example, if you’re in a more secluded part of Hawaii and need specific items, you can get them delivered right to your doorstep, even things you might not find in local stores.
• Forgetful? No Problem: Forgot your laptop charger or other must-haves? Order them on Amazon and have them waiting for you upon arrival at your rental or an Amazon Locker at Whole Foods.
• Heavy Lifting? Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods Delivery: Save your back and energy by ordering groceries and essentials for delivery, especially helpful when traveling with limited mobility or simply seeking convenience.

Gear Used

International Travel: Prime Goes Global

• Study Abroad and Extended Stays: Even when studying abroad, Prime’s free shipping can be a lifesaver, especially if you’re craving familiar items or need something specific. While at Imperial College London in 2017, I actually used Prime to get a tub of Cellucor C4 Ripped (Cherry Limeade flavor, the cheapest flavor of course) delivered right to my dorm.

• Cost Efficiency with Amazon Prime Credit Card: To offset the cost of an annual Amazon Prime subscription, consider using the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card. This card offers unlimited 5% back on Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market purchases, 5% back on travel through Chase, and 2% back on gas stations and restaurants, making it a great choice for travelers.

You should note that you can use other cars if you don’t want to be further in the Amazon ecosystem. In this case, consider a rewards card like the Fidelity Rewards Visa Signature® Card that can help you earn cash back or travel rewards, effectively offsetting the cost of your Prime membership.

Link your American Express Membership Rewards®-enrolled card to your Amazon account for an extra layer of savings. Take advantage of Amex Offers for discounts on Amazon purchases or use points directly for eligible items.

Real-Life Example: Sony Headphones at 50% Off

In November 2022, I snagged a pair of Sony noise-canceling headphones, when you could get up to 50% off during an Amazon promo using my American Express rewards points.

You can also tether how many points you really want to dish out to make sure the deal if worthwhile. In my case, I linked my Amex card and was able to get $80 off the headphones, making them much more affordable. With Prime’s free shipping, it made it an easy decision.

I had been eyeing these  Sony WH-XB910N EXTRA BASS Noise Cancelling Headphones. I’ve always loved Sony’s “Extra Bass” sound profile for hip hop and R&B, and these headphones seemed perfect for both travel and work. But they were pricey, so I hesitated for a long time.

As a remote worker who values both travel and productivity, these headphones have been a game-changer. I’ve learned the importance of having reliable tools that can adapt to different environments, particularly noise-cancelling headphones. And these definitely take the cake!

They block out the chaos of coffee shops (where baristas seem to love cranking the music and AC, a tactic supported by studies suggesting that louder music can lead to faster consumption and quicker turnover), noisy airplanes, and busy airports. This has been invaluable for both my work and my overall well-being.

And over a year and a half later (18 months), these headphones are still going strong, even with a few battle scars. They’ve proven to be an excellent investment, especially considering the significant discount I got by combining Amazon Prime with my Amex rewards.

Maximizing Amazon Prime

• Stack Savings: Leverage the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card, rewards credit cards, and Amex Offers to maximize your benefits. Consider putting your Prime subscription on a rewards card like the Capital One SavorOne to earn cash back and offset the annual fee. (This card is also friendly to students and others looking to rebuild their credit)
• Think Outside the Box: Amazon Prime isn’t just for online shopping. Utilize grocery delivery, locker pickup, and fast shipping to enhance your travel experience.
• Look for Deals: Keep an eye out for special promotions and discounts exclusive to Prime members.o

Tips, Tricks, and Logistics

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Don’t underestimate the power of your Amazon Prime membership when planning your next adventure. It’s a versatile tool that can save you time, money, and hassle, whether you’re traveling near or far. From everyday essentials to unexpected discounts on premium items, Prime can enhance your travel experience in surprising ways.

Talk about a win-win!