Credit Cards with Lounge Access

🆓 No Annual Fee Cards: The Rare Gems

Finding a credit card with complimentary airport lounge access and no annual fee is akin to spotting a unicorn; extremely rare. Currently, there are no mainstream credit cards offering this perk without an annual fee. Some cards may provide limited access through promotions or partnerships, but these are exceptions rather than the norm.

💰 Annual Fee $1–$300: Budget-Friendly Options

For travelers seeking lounge access without breaking the bank, one credit card offers this perk with a moderate annual fee.

United℠ Explorer Card – Annual Fee: $95

• Lounge Access: Two single-use United Club passes annually.

• Guest Policy: Each pass admits one person; additional guests require separate passes.

• Additional Perks: Free first checked bag, priority boarding, and 2x miles on United purchases.

💎 Annual Fee Over $300: Premium Access

For those willing to invest in a higher annual fee, premium credit cards offer extensive lounge access and additional travel benefits.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card – Annual Fee: $395

• Lounge Access: Complimentary access for the cardholder and two guests to over 1,300 lounges worldwide, including Priority Pass lounges and Capital One Lounges.

• Guest Policy: Cardholders can bring up to two guests per visit at no additional charge.

• Additional Perks: $300 annual travel credit, 10,000 bonus miles each account anniversary, and 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.

The Platinum Card® from American Express – Annual Fee: $695

• Lounge Access: Access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, including Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta), and Priority Pass Select lounges (enrollment required).

• Guest Policy: Complimentary access for the cardholder and up to two guests at Priority Pass lounges. For Centurion Lounges, guests are allowed for a fee unless the cardholder spends $75,000 or more annually.

• Additional Perks: 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel, up to $200 in airline fee credits, and various hotel and car rental elite status benefits.

Chase Sapphire Reserve® – Annual Fee: $550

• Lounge Access: Complimentary Priority Pass Select membership, providing access to over 1,300 lounges worldwide, including select airport restaurants.

• Guest Policy: Cardholders can bring up to two guests per visit at no additional charge.

• Additional Perks: $300 annual travel credit, 3x points on travel and dining, and 1.5x point value when redeeming through Chase Ultimate Rewards.

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card – Annual Fee: $550

• Lounge Access: Access to Delta Sky Clubs when flying Delta and complimentary access to Centurion Lounges when flying Delta.

• Guest Policy: Guests are allowed for a fee; terms vary and should be confirmed with Delta's current policy.

• Additional Perks: Priority boarding, first checked bag free, and companion certificate upon renewal.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card – Annual Fee: $650

• Lounge Access: Complimentary Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required).

• Guest Policy: Guest access policies may vary; it's advisable to check the specific terms associated with the card.

• Additional Perks: Annual free night award, Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, and up to $300 in dining statement credits.

HSBC Elite Credit Card – Annual Fee: $395

• Lounge Access: Unlimited access to Priority Pass lounges for the cardholder and up to two guests.

• Additional Perks: Various travel benefits, including travel credits and rewards points on purchases.

🌍 Understanding Priority Pass and Priority Pass Select

Priority Pass is a membership program offering access to over 1,700 airport lounges worldwide. Membership tiers include Standard, Standard Plus, and Prestige, each with varying annual fees and lounge visit allowances.

Priority Pass Select is a version of the program provided through certain U.S. credit cards. While it offers similar lounge access, the guest policies and additional benefits can vary depending on the issuing bank. For example, some memberships include access to airport restaurants, while others do not.

🧳 Final Boarding Call

Investing in a credit card with lounge access can transform your travel experience from chaotic to comfortable. Whether you're a budget-conscious traveler or seeking premium perks, there's a card that fits your needs. Just remember to read the fine print, understand the guest policies, and enroll in any required programs to make the most of your benefits.

So, the next time you find yourself navigating the airport hustle, let your credit card be your golden ticket to relaxation.

Notes: Some links in this post may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you, as we participate in affiliate programs. This is how we can continue to work and bring you the latest and best content.

All information is accurate as of the date of publication but may change over time.

Always check for the latest details before making travel plans.