American Express has introduced blockchain-based travel stamps as a new way for customers to remember their trips. The stamps, known as Amex Passport, are stored as ERC-721 non-fungible tokens (NFTs) on Ethereum layer-2 network Base.
According to the company, the digital stamps act as keepsakes that preserve travel history and favourite moments abroad. Luke Gebb, Executive Vice President of Amex Digital Labs, said on Monday:
“Part of the magic of travel is reminiscing about past getaways, and commemorative keepsakes are a powerful way for travellers to relive their favourite trips. As physical passport stamps continue to disappear, Amex Passport creates an opportunity for Card Members to celebrate their travels.”
Customisable experiences for each trip
Each stamp can be customised to reflect special experiences from a trip, such as a landmark visit, a meal, a hotel stay, or a favourite activity.
However, eligibility is limited to US Amex consumer cardholders with an online account. The NFTs cannot be transferred and will only display the country or region, a short description, and the date when the stamp was earned. No personal travel details will appear on the blockchain.
Trips booked through American Express in the past two years will also be automatically added to the collection. Stamps can be shared on social media or saved to a camera roll.
Blockchain use growing in data storage
Data from Base’s block explorer, BaseScan, shows the Amex travel stamp smart contract was created 25 days ago. The project highlights how public blockchains are being used by companies to store data securely without relying on centralised servers.
Just last month, the US Department of Commerce announced it would begin publishing official economic statistics, including GDP figures, on the blockchain.
Demand for digital travel keepsakes
American Express says demand for digital souvenirs is strong. In a recent survey, 73% of travellers said they wanted more ways to commemorate past trips digitally, while 56% said they missed receiving traditional passport stamps when entering a new country.
The launch of Amex Passport marks the company’s latest step into digital innovation, offering its cardholders a new way to capture and share their travel stories.
