Card strategy help

[SkyCommander]

I got a retention bonus for my SPG card but after Aug 1 I'll SD it and only use it on Marriott/SPG stays. So I want to rework my card strategy now that SPG card lost value on daily spend. I want my card pair to be Hyatt and Amex ED. Would this work?

Hyatt- Hyatt stays, airline tickets, dining, places that don't take Amex

ED- Everything else and grocery stores

As far as points value I rate them the same.

[wasCB14]

Have you calculated whether an EDP might be worth the $95 AF? Or dislike the idea of keeping track of your transaction count?

[SkyCommander]

Making 30 transactions would be a struggle and having a 3rd card with annual fee is unappealing.

[wasCB14]

My strategy is somewhat similar and I like it. I use Prestige (so long as I can get retention) and Costco for various protection benefits, but if rewards are my main consideration I tend to go with BBP and Hyatt.

I use BBP more for personal than business use, but I do have a business.

[Anonymous]

if you rate the points the same, why dont you just use the Hyatt card for everyday purchases and maybe a Discover or Freedom for 5% purchases? I mean it would help you accumulate points faster if thats your goal but just a thought. I am also considering making Hyatt my daily driver after i meet mininum spend for it. This is mainly to accumulate points faster since it would take forever based on my spending in its bonus categories.

Like others have said, I would dislike having to meet 30 transactions a month for the EDP just to get the 50% bonus. If you can do it naturally, it may work for you though

[SkyCommander]

I rate Hyatt and MR the same. My Freedom card was a carry over from when it was Amtrak and it got changed to a Freedom. It's my oldest card that's why I keep it. With the SPG card out of it I can naturally make the 20 purchases. 

[Anonymous]

Do Amazon reloads work for the EDP quota?