Top credit cards for accessing airport lounges in 2024

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While some lament the end of the Golden Age of Travel, others believe we’re currently experiencing it. Premium travel options are more accessible than ever, and often, just one credit card is all it takes.

Airport lounges exemplify a premium travel feature becoming mainstream. They offer travelers a comfortable and luxurious environment to unwind before and after flights. These lounges typically provide cozy seating, complimentary drinks, snacks, and various amenities. Some even include showers, enabling travelers to refresh before boarding or after a long journey. With such offerings, airport lounges significantly enhance the travel experience.

Having a credit card that grants access to airport lounges can greatly enhance your travel experience. Many of these cards also provide priority boarding, helping you board the plane faster and skip long lines at the gate. Plus, you can earn bonus points on flights that can be redeemed for free flights or upgrades later. With annual fees ranging from $95 to $695, there's an option for every budget.

We've compiled a list of the top credit cards for airport lounge access to help you make an informed choice. Here are our top recommendations:

Top credit cards

• Best for the widest lounge access: The Platinum Card® from American Express

• Best for Priority Pass Select access: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

• Best for Admiral’s Club access: Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®

• Best for United lounge access: United Club℠ Infinite Card

• Best for Delta SkyClub access: Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

• Best budget option: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

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The Platinum Card® from American Express: Best for the most extensive lounge access

The Platinum Card® from American Express is the ideal choice for those seeking access to a vast lounge network. This card grants entry to over 1,400 airport lounges globally. Cardholders also receive complimentary Priority Pass Select membership, which includes access to more than 1,300 lounges worldwide. Additionally, you can visit exclusive Centurion Lounges, as well as the Escape and Airspace lounge networks, Delta Sky Clubs when flying with Delta, and Lufthansa lounges when flying with Lufthansa Group.

The card features an annual airline fee credit of up to $200. If you find yourself at an airport without a lounge in this extensive network, you can purchase a day pass using your Platinum Card and get reimbursed. Moreover, Amex Platinum Card authorized users enjoy their own lounge access, which may justify the extra fee. See rates and fees.

Welcome bonus: 80,000 points after spending $8,000 within the first six months of opening your account.

Rewards: Earn 5 points for every dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel (up to $500,000 each calendar year); 5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels booked via Amex Travel; 1 point per dollar on all other purchases.

Lounge benefits: Access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, featuring lounges in the Centurion network, Priority Pass, Plaza Premium, Escape, and both Lufthansa and Delta Sky Club lounges.

Other travel benefits: Up to $1,500 in annual credits for travel, dining, and entertainment; Gold elite status with Hilton and Marriott; elite status with Avis, Hertz, and National rental car; trip delay insurance; trip cancellation and interruption insurance.

Required credit score: Good to Excellent.

Annual fee: $695. Refer to rates and fees.

Advantages

• Provides access to the most comprehensive lounge network of any credit card.

• Authorized users receive their own lounge access privileges.

• Offers over $1,500 in annual travel credits, including airline fees.

Disadvantages

• Significant annual fee.

• $175 annual fee for up to three authorized users.

• Approval is governed by Amex’s once-per-lifetime policy (meaning you can only receive a card’s welcome bonus once unless targeted for special offers).

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Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Best for Priority Pass Select access

While many premium credit cards offer Priority Pass Select access, the benefits can vary. With the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, your membership includes dining credits at selected airport lounges and cafes, which is handy when lounges are busy or if you want a quick meal before your flight.

The Priority Pass network includes fantastic dining options, such as Landry’s at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Bobby Van’s Steakhouse at New York-JFK’s Terminal 8. Qualifying Priority Pass Select members can enjoy a $28 credit per person at these venues, which is quite generous. This benefit also applies to authorized users, who receive their own Priority Pass memberships.

Unfortunately, cardholders of Capital One and American Express do not enjoy restaurant privileges. This makes the Chase Sapphire Reserve® a superior choice for those seeking Priority Pass Select membership.

Welcome bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 within the first 3 months of account opening. This translates to $900 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠.

Rewards: Earn 5x points on flights and 10x points on hotels and car rentals when booking travel through Chase Travel℠ after the first $300 spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining, and 1 point for every dollar spent on all other purchases.

Lounge benefits: Priority Pass Select membership that includes restaurant privileges and access to Chase Sapphire lounges.

Additional travel benefits: Enjoy up to $300 in annual travel statement credits, which cover airfare, hotels, and rental cars; receive 50% more value when redeeming points for travel through Chase Travel℠ (for instance, 60,000 points equate to $900 toward travel); gain Priority Pass Select membership; get a credit for the application fee for Global Entry, TSA Precheck, or NEXUS every four years; and access travel protections including cancellation/interruption insurance, trip delay reimbursement, primary rental car insurance (up to $75,000 both domestically and internationally), and lost luggage reimbursement.

Required credit score: Excellent.

Annual fee: $550 (with an additional $75 for each authorized user).

Advantages

• Grants access to Chase and Priority Pass lounges, including participating airport restaurants and cafes.

• Lounge access benefits are extended to authorized users.

• The $300 annual travel credit helps to mitigate the high annual fee.

Disadvantages

• Significant annual fee.

• Adding an authorized user incurs a $75 fee, which is uncommon among most travel cards.

• Approval is contingent upon the Chase 5/24 rule (meaning you will be denied if you’ve opened five credit cards in the past 24 months).

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Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®: Ideal for Admiral’s Club access

If you often travel through an American Airlines hub, you might appreciate the benefits of an Admiral’s Club membership. Instead of spending over $625 on membership, consider the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®, which has a $450 annual fee and provides access to more than 50 lounges globally. Plus, you can bring along up to two guests.

The card also includes various additional benefits to enhance your travel experience, such as priority check-in and security screening, free checked bags, and the opportunity to earn elite status through your spending. However, it remains valuable even if you primarily use it for the Admiral’s Club membership and keep it unused otherwise.

Welcome bonus: Earn 70,000 miles after spending $7,000 within the first three months of opening your account.

Rewards: Earn 2X miles on eligible American Airlines purchases and 1X mile on all other purchases.

Lounge benefits: Free Admiral’s Club membership, worth up to $650, which includes access for two guests.

Additional travel benefits: Up to $100 credit for Global Entry/TSA Precheck every five years; earn 10,000 Loyalty Points after spending $40,000 each status year; both the primary cardholder and up to eight travel companions enjoy free checked bags, priority check-in, security screening, and boarding when flying with American; receive a 25% discount on in-flight purchases with American Airlines.

Required credit score: Good to Excellent.

Annual fee: $450.

Advantages

• Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every dollar spent, contributing towards AAdvantage elite status.

• The value of the Admirals Club lounge access exceeds the annual fee.

• Complimentary lounge access is also available for authorized users.

• Enjoy enhanced travel benefits when flying with American Airlines.

Disadvantages

• The annual fee is steep if you don't utilize the Admirals Club benefit.

• The welcome bonus is not very competitive compared to other airline cards.

• Limited earning opportunities outside of American Airlines purchases.

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United Club℠ Infinite Card: Ideal for United lounge access

United Airlines boasts 45 airport lounges globally, offering relaxing spaces to await your flight. A United Club membership is priced at $650, which also includes access to select lounges of Star Alliance partners. By choosing the United Club℠ Infinite Card, you can save $125 while enjoying complimentary United Club membership, allowing entry for up to two adults (or one adult and dependent children under 21).

Additionally, the card provides Premier Access travel services to enhance your airport experience, including priority check-in, security screening, boarding, and baggage handling where available.

Welcome bonus: Receive 80,000 bonus miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening.

Rewards: Accumulate 4X miles on purchases from United, which includes tickets, Economy Plus, inflight food, beverages, and wi-fi; earn 2X miles on all other travel expenses such as airfare, trains, local transit, cruise lines, hotels, car rentals, taxis, resorts, rideshare services, and tolls; 2X miles on dining, including eligible delivery services; and 1X mile on all other purchases. Additionally, receive 500 PQP for every $12,000 spent (up to 8,000 PQP per year).

Lounge benefits: Enjoy complimentary United Club membership, allowing access for up to two travel companions.

Other travel benefits: Free first and checked bags for the primary cardholder and up to four companions; Premier Access travel services; Premier upgrades on award tickets; up to $100 Global Entry/TSA Precheck credit every four years; 25% rebate on United in-flight and Club premium drink purchases; IHG One Rewards Platinum elite status; two annual $75 statement credits for IHG hotel purchases; Avis President’s Club access.

Credit score: Excellent.

Annual fee: $525. Refer to rates and fees.

Pros

• Generous welcome bonus.

• United Club membership is valued up to $650.

• Opportunity to earn PQP towards United elite status through card spending.

• Improved travel experience when flying with United.

Cons

• Annual fee is quite high.

• Travel benefits are not advantageous if you don’t frequently fly United.

• United does not provide an award chart, and award rates may be higher compared to other airlines.

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Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card: Ideal for Delta Sky Club access

For access to both the Delta Sky Club® and Centurion Lounges, consider the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve card. Starting February 1, 2025, cardholders will enjoy 15 complimentary visits to the Delta Sky Club each year. To unlock unlimited visits, spend at least $75,000 on the card from January 1 to December 31 of the previous year. After using all 15 visits, additional visits can be purchased at $50 each. Plus, you’ll receive four Delta Sky Club® One-Time Guest Passes annually to share with loved ones when flying Delta.

This card, alongside the Amex Platinum Card, is one of the few that provides access to Centurion Lounges. However, you must book your Delta flight using this card to gain entry. Priced at $650, it may offer a more economical option for frequent travelers. See rates and fees.

Welcome bonus: Receive 100,000 Bonus Miles after spending $6,000 on eligible purchases within the first 6 months of your Card Membership.

Rewards: Earn 3X Miles on purchases made with Delta and 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.

Limited time offer: Claim your exclusive limited edition Boeing 747 design of the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card.

Lounge benefits:

• Enjoy complimentary entry to the Delta Sky Club. Starting February 1, 2025, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 visits annually; to earn unlimited visits, total eligible spending on the card must reach $75,000 or more from January 1 to December 31 each year. After using all 15 visits, cardholders can purchase additional visits at $50 per person.

• Receive four Delta Sky Club® One-Time Guest Passes each year when flying Delta, allowing you to share the lounge experience with family and friends.

• Access The Centurion® Lounge at no extra cost when you book a Delta flight using your Reserve Card.

Other travel benefits: Enjoy a Companion Certificate for First Class, Delta Comfort+®, or Main Cabin round-trip flights within the domestic U.S., Caribbean, or Central America each year upon renewing your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees, capped at $80 for domestic round trips and $250 for international trips (up to four flight segments). Baggage fees and other conditions apply; please refer to the terms and conditions for full details. Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card Members receive a 15% discount when booking Award Travel with miles on Delta flights through delta.com or the Fly Delta app. This discount does not apply to partner-operated flights or taxes and fees. Members also gain upgrade priority over other Medallion Members at the same level and fare class, and non-elite members can qualify for upgrades. Earn $1 in Medallion® Qualification Dollars for every $10 spent on the card in a calendar year, helping you reach higher Medallion Status. Additionally, cardholders enjoy a free first checked bag and a 20% statement credit on in-flight Delta food and beverage purchases.

Credit score: Good to Excellent.

Annual fee: $650.

Pros

• Generous welcome bonus.

• Exclusive travel benefits typically enjoyed by elite members.

• Ability to earn elite status credits through spending on the card.

Cons

• Access to Sky Club is restricted to the primary cardholder only.

• Low rewards earning potential on purchases outside of Delta.

• Delta SkyMiles can require a high number of miles for premium cabin redemptions.

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Capital One Venture Card: Top budget-friendly choice for lounge access

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is ideal for those seeking lounge access without paying a hefty annual fee. With a $95 fee, the card offers up to two complimentary visits to Capital One or Plaza Premium Lounges each year. However, currently, Capital One operates only one lounge at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, with plans for more at Denver International, Harry Reid International (Las Vegas), and Dulles International. The Plaza Premium Lounges have a much larger global presence, boasting over 100 locations.

Since lounge access is capped at two visits annually, the Capital One Venture Card is best suited for occasional travelers.

Welcome bonus: Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months from account opening.

Rewards: Earn 5X miles on hotel and rental car bookings made through Capital One Travel; 2X miles on all other purchases.

Lounge benefits: Enjoy up to two free visits each year to Capital One and its partner lounges, including Plaza Premium Lounges.

Other travel benefits: Receive up to $120 in credits for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, along with Hertz Five Star status, rental car insurance, and travel accident coverage.

Credit score: Good to Excellent.

Annual fee: $95.

Pros

• Impressive lounge access for a card with a $95 annual fee.

• Attractive welcome bonus and ongoing earning opportunities.

• Points can be transferred to 18 different airlines and hotel programs.

Cons

• Smaller lounge network compared to other credit cards.

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Who should consider a credit card with lounge access?

A credit card that includes airport lounge access is ideal for both frequent flyers and occasional travelers. It opens the door to exclusive lounges around the globe, allowing you to unwind while waiting for your flight. You can save on airport expenses by enjoying complimentary food and beverages, high-speed Wi-Fi, and other amenities that might not be offered in the terminal.

Whether you're traveling for work or pleasure, having a comfortable space to relax and complete tasks can significantly enhance your travel experience. Some lounges even feature designated play areas for children, keeping them entertained during potentially tedious wait times. Many credit cards allow lounge access for up to two guests, making it feasible for small families and groups to enjoy these amenities together.

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How to select the ideal credit card for airport lounge access?

When selecting a credit card that offers airport lounge access, it's essential to evaluate your travel patterns. If you primarily fly with a specific airline, a co-branded card that grants access to its lounges can be beneficial. Conversely, if you prefer flexibility, a card with a broad lounge network like Priority Pass might be a better fit. Numerous credit cards, such as the Sapphire Reserve and Amex Platinum Card, include Priority Pass Select membership, allowing you to access these lounges at no additional cost and accompany up to two guests.

Examine the airports you frequent most often. Identify the available lounges and choose a credit card that provides sufficient access. The Priority Pass network is extensive and typically meets the needs of most travelers. However, if you regularly depart from an American Airlines hub, you may find more value in an Admiral’s Club membership offered through the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard.

Besides lounge access, seek out cards that provide additional travel benefits like complimentary checked bags, priority boarding, and discounts on in-flight purchases. Also, take note of the card's annual fee and compare it with other options offering similar perks. Ensuring that the advantages outweigh the annual fee is crucial.

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Frequently Asked Questions about the best credit cards for airport lounges

Which credit card offers complimentary airport lounge access?

Numerous credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, grant access to airport lounges. If you're seeking access to a specific lounge, consider a premium airline credit card that includes lounge membership.

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Which credit card offers the most extensive lounge access?

The American Express Centurion Card is often recognized as having the most extensive lounge access among credit cards. This prestigious card grants members entry to over 1,200 airport lounges across more than 500 cities globally, including The Centurion Lounge, Delta Sky Club, and Priority Pass Select.

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How often can you access an airport lounge with a credit card?

Access depends on the specific credit card and the airport lounge in question. Some cards provide unlimited entry to certain lounges, while others may limit visits to a set number each year. Always check the terms and conditions of your credit card before trying to enter a lounge.

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* Eligibility and benefit levels vary by card. Terms, conditions, and limitations apply. For further details, please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.

Editorial note: The views expressed here are solely those of the author and do not reflect the opinions of any bank, credit card issuer, airline, or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved, or endorsed by any of these organizations.