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Traveling can be quite chaotic, with long layovers and crowded airports adding to the already existing stress. That’s why you need to check out the best credit cards for lounge access to make your travel experience more comfortable, relaxing, and luxurious. Historically, lounges were typically reserved for first-class passengers or elite frequent flyers. But times have changed, and now many credit cards offer exclusive lounge access as a valuable perk. And this has become one of the major benefits that come with a credit card.
Whether you’re a frequent business traveller or someone who loves to jet off on leisurely adventures, having the right credit card can take your airport experience to a whole new level. One fantastic perk offered by many credit cards is access to airport lounges. Sure, these cards may come with higher annual fees compared to others, but trust me, the benefits you receive, like lounge access and other perks, make it all worth it.
Key Aspects To Look For In A Credit Card For Lounge Access
It’s very important to know the key features and various components that make up the best credit cards for lounge access. We’ll explore the different aspects that you should consider when choosing a credit card that offers this perk, helping you make an informed decision:
Airport Lounge Network
It’s essential to know that the card you are choosing gives you access to the lounge network you visit frequently. It becomes the main factor because you are looking for a credit card that gives you access to the lounge. Different networks may include renowned networks like the American Express Global Lounge Collection, Priority Pass, specific airline lounges, etc. Understanding the lounge options available to you can greatly influence your choice of the credit card.
Access Policies
Each credit card may have its own access policies and restrictions, so it all depends on your needs. Whether you want unlimited access, limited visits per year, or access for the primary cardholder only, or if you are looking for a credit card that can help you bring guests to the lounge.
Travel Benefits
In addition to granting lounge access, the top credit cards that offer this perk often come with a whole package of other travel benefits. It’s like getting a bonus on top of the lounge access! These extra perks can include travel credits to offset your expenses, reimbursement for fees associated with Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, special elite status with airlines or hotels that gives you additional privileges, and even travel insurance coverage for added peace of mind.
Annual Fees
Credit cards offering lounge access typically come with higher annual fees compared to other cards. So, it becomes important to analyze whether the benefits provided outweigh the cost. Additionally, determining whether the overall value the card offers aligns with your travel habits and budget is crucial.
Best Credit Cards For Lounge Access 2023
Here is the top list of credit cards you can check out for lounge access in 2023.
The Platinum Card® from American Express
When discussing top travel premium credit cards that offer benefits like lounge access, it’s undeniable that the Amex Platinum Card tops the list. The Platinum Card® from American Express provides cardmembers with an extensive range of privileges, and one of its most notable perks is access to an extensive network of over 1,300 Priority Pass lounges across an impressive 148 countries.
The Platinum Card® from American Express comes with an annual fee of $695, but it offers excellent ongoing benefits. These benefits include plush seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, delectable food and beverage offerings, and dedicated amenities like shower facilities and business centres. With Amex’s vast Lounge network, you can relax, recharge, or catch up on work in a serene and luxurious environment. You can check Airport Lounge access for more information.
Lounge Network
- Amex Centurion Lounges
- Priority Pass
- Delta Sky Club lounges (For Delta flyers)
- Escape Lounge – The Centurion Studio Partner
- Plaza Premium lounges
- Lufthansa lounges (when flying Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, or SWISS)
Other Travel Benefits
- Cardholders can enjoy up to $189 in statement credits each year by using the card to pay for their CLEAR Plus membership
- $100 fee credit for Global Entry
- Up to $78 for TSA PreCheck
- Up to $200 annual airline fee credit
Guest Access Rules
- Priority Pass: You can bring two guests for free
- Delta Sky Club: No free guests
- Centurion Lounges: $50 per guest age 18+ and $30 per guest age 17 and below). You can receive two free guests by spending $75,000 on your card in a calendar year
- Escape Lounges: You can bring two guests for free
- Plaza Premium: You can bring two guests for free
- Lufthansa Lounges: No free guests are allowed
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
When it comes to travel credit cards that rival the Amex Platinum, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card emerges as a significant competitor in the travel category. In comparison to other premium credit cards, Capital One Venture X stands out with its lower annual fee of $395.
With the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, you’ll have access to Capital One airport lounges. Although there’s currently only one location available in Dallas (DFW), Soon, you can expect additional lounge locations in Denver (DEN) and Washington Dulles, offering you even more options to relax and enjoy the comforts of an airport lounge during your travels.
Lounge Network
- Capital One Lounges
- Priority Pass Select
- Plaza premium airport lounges
Other Travel Benefits
- Up to $300 back in statement credit annually is only applicable for bookings made through the Capital One Travel portal
- 10,000-mile bonus annually
- Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
Guest Access Rules
- Capital One Lounges: You can bring two free guests
- Priority Pass Select: Unlimited guest access. You have the flexibility to add up to four authorized users at no additional cost. Authorized users will enjoy the same lounge privileges as the primary cardholder
- Plaza premium airport lounges: You can bring two free guests.
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
The Amex Platinum and Business Platinum Cards from American Express offer the same lounge access benefits, but they have other unique features. The Business Platinum Card is particularly attractive for frequent travellers who want to elevate their business trips with a touch of luxury.
This credit card is designed for small businesses, so in order to be eligible for the Amex Business Platinum, you need to have your own business. Although it comes with a high annual fee, it offers numerous valuable perks in exchange. These perks include generous annual travel credits and access to top-notch lounges like Amex Centurion Lounges, among others.
Lounge Network
- Amex Centurion Lounges
- Priority Pass
- Delta Sky Club lounges (For Delta flyers)
- Escape Lounge – The Centurion Studio Partner
- Plaza Premium lounges
- Lufthansa lounges (when flying Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, or SWISS)
Other Travel Benefits
- Up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee every four to five years
- Up to $200 in airline fee credits
- Cardholders can enjoy up to $189 in statement credits each year by using the card to pay for their CLEAR Plus membership
- Get 35% of your Membership Rewards® points back for eligible flights booked through American Express Travel. Applies to First/Business class or qualifying airline flights, up to 1,000,000 bonus points annually
- Gold status at Marriott and Hilton hotels
Guest Access Rules
- Priority Pass: You can bring two guests for free
- Delta Sky Club: No free guests
- Centurion Lounges: $50 per guest age 18+ and $30 per guest age 17 and below). You can receive two free guests by spending $75,000 on your card in a calendar year
- Escape Lounges: You can bring two guests for free
- Plaza Premium: You can bring two guests for free
- Lufthansa Lounges: No free guests are allowed
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
In the list of the top travel premium credit card Chase Sapphire Reserve is surely one of them. Once enrolled for free through Priority Pass, Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders can enjoy access to over 1,300 airport lounges across 148 countries.
The Chase Sapphire Lounges can be found at several airports, but please note that not all of them may be open at the moment. So, it’s important to check their availability and operating hours before your travel. Here are the airports where you can expect to find these lounges:
- Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
- Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
- Hong Kong International Airport (HKG)
- New York LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
- Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
- San Diego International Airport (SAN)
- Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
Lounge Network
- Chase Sapphire Lounges
- Priority Pass Select
Other Travel Benefits
- $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases annually
- Get 50% more value when you redeem points for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards
- up to $100 every four years to reimburse you for your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® enrollment fee
- Trip delay insurance, Baggage delay insurance, Lost luggage reimbursement
Guest Access Rules
- Chase Sapphire Lounges: You can bring up to two guests
- Priority Pass Select: You can bring two free guests
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
If you’re a dedicated Delta Airlines flyer who wants to fast-track your way to elite status and enjoy exclusive perks like Delta SkyClubs lounge access, the Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card is the top choice for you. With this card, you’ll also receive an annual companion certificate and earn generous rewards on your Delta purchases. It’s the ultimate card for Delta loyalists who want to enhance their travel experience and make the most of their loyalty to the airline.
With the Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card, you can access the Delta SkyClubs lounge and the Amex Centurion Lounges around the world. This card comes with an annual fee of $550, but if you use its features smartly, it is worth it.
Lounge Network
- Delta SkyClub Lounges
- American Express Centurion Lounges
- Two one-time Sky Club guest passes
Other Travel Benefits
- Up to $100 statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck
- First checked bag free
- Priority boarding
Guest Access Rules
- Delta SkyClub Lounges: You can bring up to two guests
- American Express Centurion Lounges: You can bring up to two guests
Bottom Line
When it comes to choosing the best credit card for lounge access, it ultimately depends on your personal needs and spending habits. While all of these credit cards offer great lounge access benefits, it’s important to consider what aligns best with your needs and how you typically spend your money.
Having lounge access is undeniably one of the most valuable travel perks out there. It’s a game-changer for those who take their travel experiences seriously. That’s why having this benefit included on a premium credit card makes perfect sense.
Interest in flying around the world using credit card points? Check out our site to learn the basics, and follow our blog for more tips on how to make your dream vacation a reality. You can also sign up for our travel concierge and get unlimited credit cards and travel assistance for one full year.
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