The Marriott Bonvoy Bevy® American Express® Card aims to reward loyal Marriott guests, but a closer look reveals a card that consistently falls short of expectations. Despite a hefty $250 annual fee, it struggles to deliver benefits that justify the cost, leaving many cardholders wondering if their money could be better spent elsewhere.
The core issue lies in a frustrating trade-off: mid-tier perks paired with demanding requirements. Earning a free night award requires a substantial $15,000 in annual spending, and crucially, there are no statement credits to help offset that significant fee. This creates a scenario where the card feels less like a reward and more like an expensive gateway to Marriott benefits.
Among the seven Marriott co-branded cards available, the Bevy occupies a middle ground. It offers complimentary Marriott Gold Elite status and 15 elite night credits annually – valuable perks for frequent travelers. However, these benefits are overshadowed by the card’s shortcomings, making it a less compelling option than its competitors.
The rewards structure is straightforward: 6 points per dollar at Marriott properties, 4 points at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets (up to $15,000 annually, then 2 points), and 2 points on all other purchases. While Marriott points hold value – currently estimated at 0.7 cents each – maximizing their worth requires strategic redemption, primarily for hotel stays.
One of the most significant drawbacks is the high spending threshold for a free night award. While the award can be worth up to 50,000 points, the $15,000 spending requirement feels excessive, especially when compared to other Marriott cards. The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card, for example, offers a free night certificate annually with no spending requirement, albeit for a lower point value.
Beyond the free night hurdle, the Bevy doesn’t offer a pathway to higher elite status through spending. Unlike some competitor cards, you can’t accelerate your progress towards Platinum or Titanium status simply by using your card. This limitation further diminishes its appeal for dedicated Marriott loyalists.
The card does provide some travel and purchase protections, including purchase protection, extended warranty coverage, trip delay insurance, and baggage insurance. These features add a layer of security, but they aren’t substantial enough to justify the annual fee on their own.
Comparing the Bevy to the Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful® Credit Card reveals minimal differences. Both cards share the same earning rates, elite status benefits, and annual fee. The Bountiful offers bonus points at supermarkets outside the U.S., a slight advantage for international shoppers.
The Bevy’s current welcome offer – 85,000 bonus points after $5,000 in spending within the first six months – is a potential draw. However, it’s crucial to consider Amex’s restrictions on earning multiple welcome bonuses on similar cards.
For those seeking a more rewarding Marriott experience, the Bonvoy Boundless card presents a compelling alternative. Its lower $95 annual fee and automatic free night certificate make it a more accessible and valuable option for most travelers.
If luxury and premium benefits are a priority, the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, despite its high $650 annual fee, offers a more comprehensive suite of perks, including a higher-value free night award and additional statement credits.
Ultimately, the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy struggles to justify its cost. It’s a card that feels stuck in the middle, lacking the compelling benefits of its more expensive sibling and the value proposition of its less costly counterpart. Unless significant changes are made, it remains a difficult recommendation for most Marriott enthusiasts.
