More than just computers: I used my Amex Business Platinum Dell credit for a carry-on bag

I remember when I first heard about the Dell perk from The Business Platinum® Card from American Express. Your initial reaction might have been similar to mine: "I don't need a new computer. And the credit isn't enough for one anyway."

I still hold those sentiments, but luckily, I've found items other than just computers, monitors and printers on Dell's website. In fact, I just used my Dell credits on a new backpack to use as my carry-on bag, and I want to show you some non-computer items that could be great for your next trip.

Understanding the Dell credits

The Business Platinum Card first added Dell credits in 2018, with up to $200 in statement credits available per year. The amount of Dell credits you can use per year increased to $400 in October 2021.

There are three key things to know about the Dell perk on your Business Platinum Card:

• You need to enroll for the perk before you can use it, which you can do in the benefits section for your card after logging into the Amex website.
• The credits are available as $200 January-June and another $200 in July-December.
• The Dell perk comes as statement credits, meaning you are reimbursed up to the maximum amounts every six months after you make a qualifying purchase.

Using these and other perks is key to off-setting the hefty $695 annual fee (see rates and fees) on the card.

Related: Is the Amex Business Platinum worth the annual fee?

More than just technology

Here at TPG, we've devoted a fair amount of attention to computer peripherals and accessories — even printers and ink — that you can buy with your Dell credits on the Business Platinum. But maybe you aren't looking for any computer equipment.

Luckily, there are other items that might be useful to help you maximize the value of your Business Platinum Card.

As the title suggests, I recently purchased a new backpack using the Dell credits from my wife's Business Platinum Card — and here are some other non-technology items you can buy for yourself with this perk.

Related: 9 things to do when you get the Amex Business Platinum Card

Backpacks and laptop cases

My new backpack is the Jet Set Smart Backpack, which I chose because it can fold open to pass through airport security checks without needing to remove the laptop. However, there are a full 10 pages of results for "laptop backpack" on Dell's website, so there are lots of options.

Beyond just backpacks, you can find numerous options for laptop cases and sleeves alongside traditional backpacks like you would take to school.

Speakers

Some hotel rooms have the ability to connect your phone and play music in the room. Sadly, some of those systems are difficult to figure out — and many hotels don't have this feature at all.

My wife and I carry this speaker with us on every trip (and also use it at home). It's great for playing music from your phone via Bluetooth, and the fact it's waterproof and dustproof makes it great for taking everywhere you go. It also takes up almost no space in your suitcase.

There are numerous other options for speakers through Dell, any of which can make a great addition to your home or your next trip.

Gifts for the gamers

While you can't receive reimbursement on your Business Platinum Card when purchasing Dell gift cards, you can get credit for Xbox gift cards. If you have some credit left over at the end of the year, a $10 Xbox gift card makes a great stocking stuffer for the gamer in your family (my nephews loved these) — though you can purchases these in increments from $5-$100.

There are also 50+ pages worth of video games that you can purchase using your annual credits.

Bottom line

If you aren't looking for a new computer or printer, you might think that the Dell benefit on your Business Platinum Card won't provide any value. That's certainly what I thought at first.

Luckily, I've since been proven wrong. Between travel accessories, gifts for family members and protection for your laptop, there are other options for your $200 in Dell credits every six months.

For rates and fees on the Business Platinum Card, please click here.