Access to airport lounges can make a world of difference in your journey, providing a quiet space to relax, enjoy complimentary food and drinks, and escape the chaos of the terminal.
But instead of shelling out hundreds of dollars for separate lounge memberships, many credit cards offer lounge access as part of their perks, often covering popular options like Priority Pass or exclusive airline lounges.
Choosing the Best Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access
Why Airport Lounge Access matters
Understanding Lounge Networks
- Airline-Operated Lounges
- American Express Lounges
- Priority Pass
What to Consider when choosing a card for Lounge Access
- Lounge Networks
- Guest Policies
- Annual Fees
- Other Travel Perks
Pro Tip: Combining Lounge Cards
Top Credit Cards for Airport Lounge Access Perks
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Best for travelers seeking luxury lounge access with a lower annual fee.
The $300 annual travel credit further offsets the $395 annual fee, making it an attractive option for frequent travelers who want luxury without the high price tag of other premium cards.
- Enjoy unlimited access to Capital One Lounges and Priority Pass, along with 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.
- Receive a $300 annual travel credit, making it ideal for those who want premium perks like lounge access without the high annual fees of other luxury cards.
Business Platinum Card® from American Express
Best for business travelers who value premium lounge access worldwide.
This card gives me luxury perks and peace of mind during those hectic travel days, and though the annual fee is $695, the benefits are extensive enough to make it worth the cost.
- Access Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass, and Delta Sky Clubs, plus 5x points on flights and hotels booked through Amex Travel.
- Perfect for frequent business travelers who want top-tier lounge access and extensive travel perks.
- Terms Apply. See rates and fees.
The Platinum Card® from American Express
Best for luxury travelers who want access to the most exclusive lounges.
The annual fee of $695 may seem high, but for luxury travelers, the extensive benefits more than justify the cost.
- Enjoy entry to Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs, and Priority Pass Lounges, with 5x points on flights and hotels through Amex Travel.
- Ideal for those seeking premium travel experiences and access to a wide range of airport lounges globally.
- Terms Apply. See rates and fees.
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Best for frequent travelers who want versatile travel rewards and lounge access.
This card is my top choice for blending comfort and flexibility on every trip, offering a premium experience without being tied to one travel partner.
- Get unlimited Priority Pass lounge access, 3x points on travel and dining, plus a $300 annual travel credit.
- A great option for travelers who want flexible points and premium lounge benefits at a variety of airports.
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
Best for loyal Delta flyers who want exclusive Sky Club access.
The $650 annual fee is offset by the luxury perks, including complimentary upgrades and priority boarding. For loyal Delta travelers, this card transforms the airport routine into a more enjoyable and luxurious part of the journey.
- Enjoy unlimited access to Delta Sky Clubs when flying Delta, plus complimentary entry to Amex Centurion Lounges.
- Ideal for frequent Delta travelers who prioritize comfort before their flights.
- Terms Apply. See rates and fees.
United Club℠ Infinite Card
Best for frequent United travelers seeking unlimited lounge access.
The $525 annual fee is well worth it for those who regularly fly United and want to maximize their comfort while traveling.
- Enjoy unlimited access to United Clubs and partner lounges worldwide, along with enhanced travel rewards on United flights.
- Perfect for those who fly United regularly and want to maximize their travel experience with premium perks.
United Club℠ Business Card
The $450 annual fee is offset by the extensive benefits for frequent flyers.
- Get unlimited access to United Clubs and partner lounges globally, with bonus rewards on United flights, dining, and travel.
- Designed for United business travelers who value comfort and convenience during layovers.
United℠ Explorer Card (2 passes per year)
Best for occasional United travelers who want lounge access without high fees.
With an annual fee of $95 ($0 the first year), it’s a low-cost option for occasional travelers.
- Receive 2 complimentary United Club passes each year, along with earning miles on United flights, dining, and hotels.
- A great choice for United travelers who don’t need unlimited access but want occasional lounge comfort.
Kurt’s key takeaway
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