Best credit cards for airport lounge access in December 2025
Our top picks for the best credit cards from our partners with airport lounge access can elevate your experience the next time you fly. Airport lounges are great places to relax and recharge your devices before a flight and typically offer complimentary refreshments and private bathrooms — which can be a great perk when you find yourself on a long layover.
While you can pay for access to many lounges, it’s also a benefit on select credit cards.
There are multiple types of airline lounge access you can get with a credit card. Some cards will get you into airline-specific lounges — like Delta Air Lines’ Sky Clubs or American Airlines’ Admirals Clubs. Other cards include Plaza Premium access or a Priority Pass Select membership, which grant entry into curated collections of lounges worldwide. Issuers themselves have also gotten into the game, with American Express Centurion lounges, Capital One lounges and Chase Sapphire lounges opening their doors in recent years.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience than the hectic environment of an airport terminal, our team of experts has compiled the list below of the best credit cards with airport lounge access to enhance your flight experience ahead of your next flight.
- Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: Best for premium travel
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Best for travel and dining combined
- Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card: Best for Delta flyers
- American Express Platinum Card®: Best for premium travel perks and digital entertainment
- The Business Platinum Card® from American Express: Best for business owners who prioritize premium travel perks
- Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card: Best for Delta business travelers
- American Express® Green Card: Best for Best mid-tier card for lounge access
Comparing the best credit cards for airport lounge access
at Capital One's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 10 Miles | 10 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel |
| 5 Miles | 5 Miles per dollar on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel |
| 2 Miles | 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day |
If you can maximize the $300 annual credit towards bookings through Capital One Travel, the Venture X’s annual fee effectively comes down to $95. Add in a 10,000-mile bonus every account anniversary (worth $185, according to TPG valuations), and the card may become the strongest option out there for a lot of travelers. Read our full review of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card.
Pros
- Generous welcome offer
- 10,000 bonus miles every account anniversary
Cons
- $395 annual fee
- The $300 annual credit only applicable for bookings made through Capital One Travel portal
- LIMITED-TIME OFFER: Earn 100,000 bonus miles once you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first 6 months from account opening - equal to $1,000 in travel
- Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
- Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
- Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel
- Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
- Enjoy access to 1,300+ lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge locations and Priority Pass™ lounges, after enrollment
- Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
- Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
- Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
at Chase's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 8x | Earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠. |
| 4x | Earn 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct. |
| 3x | Earn 3x points on dining worldwide. |
| 1x | Earn 1x points on all other purchases. |
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® remains one of the most rewarding travel credit cards thanks to its elevated earning rates on both Chase Travel℠ and direct hotel and airline purchases. Cardholders also gain access to more than $2,700 in potential annual value through premium perks like lounge access, hotel status, lifestyle credits and flexible travel credits.
With its strong earning structure and access to Chase’s airline and hotel partners, it’s a top choice for travelers seeking both luxury and long-term value.
Pros
- Automatic $300 annual travel credit each account anniversary year
- Earn 8 points per dollar spent on Chase Travel purchases and 4 points per dollar spent on flights and hotels booked direct
- Over $2,700 in total annual cardmember value, including credits for StubHub, Apple Music, Apple TV+ and DoorDash
- $300 annual dining credit (split up as two semiannual $150 credits) for Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables restaurants
- Access to Chase’s 14 hotel and airline travel partners
- No foreign transaction fees
- Complimentary IHG Platinum Elite status (through Dec. 31, 2027)
Cons
- Steep $795 annual fee, plus a $195 fee per authorized user
- Some credits are split biannually, requiring careful tracking to maximize value
- Some credits require enrollment or specific platforms, which may make it more difficult to maximize value
- May not be a good fit for those who don’t spend heavily on travel or select lifestyle categories
- Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
- Get more than $2,700 in annual value with Sapphire Reserve.
- Earn 8x points on all purchases through Chase Travel℠, including The Edit℠ and 4x points on flights and hotels booked direct. Plus, earn 3x points on dining worldwide & 1x points on all other purchases
- $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
- Access over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide with a complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership, plus every Chase Sapphire Lounge® by The Club with two guests. Plus, up to $120 towards Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck® every 4 years
- Get up to $150 in statement credits every six months for a maximum of $300 annually for dining at restaurants that are part of Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables.
- Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance, no foreign transaction fees, and more.
- Get complimentary Apple TV+, the exclusive streaming home of Apple Originals. Plus Apple Music — all the music you love, across all your devices. Subscriptions run through 6/22/27 — a value of $250 annually
- Member FDIC
at American Express's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 3X | Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases. |
The Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card is the premier choice for Delta loyalists who value an accelerated path to elite status, Delta SkyClubs lounge access, an annual companion certificate and strong earning rates on Delta purchases. Read our full review of the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Amex Card.
Pros
- Statement credit for Global Entry ($120 every 4 years)/TSA PreCheck (up to $85 every 4.5 years).
- Delta SkyClub access when flying Delta (Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more, and each calendar year thereafter.
Cons
- High annual fee of $650
- Lower fee Delta cobranded cards offer superior earning categories
- Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
- Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card Members receive 15 Visits per Medallion® Year to the Delta Sky Club® when flying Delta and can unlock an unlimited number of Visits after spending $75,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year. Plus, you'll receive four One-Time Guest Passes each Medallion Year so you can share the experience with family and friends when traveling Delta together.
- Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
- Receive $2,500 Medallion® Qualification Dollars with MQD Headstart each Medallion Qualification Year and earn $1 MQD for each $10 in purchases on your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card with MQD Boost to get closer to Status next Medallion Year.
- Enjoy a Companion Certificate on a Delta First, Delta Comfort, or Delta Main round-trip flight to select destinations each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Certificate requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of between $22 and $250 (for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. Delta Basic experiences are not eligible for this benefit.
- $240 Resy Credit: When you use your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card for eligible purchases with U.S. Resy restaurants, you can earn up to $20 each month in statement credits. Enrollment required.
- $120 Rideshare Credit: Earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month after you use your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card to pay for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers. Enrollment required.
- Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
- With your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, receive upgrade priority over others with the same Medallion tier, product and fare experience purchased, and Million Miler milestone when you fly with Delta.
- Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
- $650 Annual Fee.
- Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
- Terms Apply.
- See Rates & Fees
Best for premium travel perks and digital entertainment
at American Express's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 5X | Earn 5X points on flights purchased directly from airlines or through American Express Travel® on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year. |
The American Express Platinum Card® has a high annual fee but remains one of the best cards on the market for those who prioritize premium travel experiences. A combination of updated and new statement credits makes the refreshed Amex Platinum an ideal card for frequent travelers and digital entertainment enthusiasts alike.
Pros
- No foreign transaction fees
- Up to $600 hotel credit (disbursed as up to $300 in statement credits semiannually; enrollment required)
- Up to $300 digital entertainment credit (disbursed as up to $25 in statement credits per month; enrollment required)
- Earns transferable Membership Rewards points
Cons
- $895 annual fee
- You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Get more for your travels with 5X Membership Rewards® points on all flights and prepaid hotel bookings through American Express Travel®, including Fine Hotels + Resorts® and The Hotel Collection bookings. You earn 5X points on flights purchased directly from airlines or through American Express Travel® on up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
- More Value! With over 1,550 airport lounges - more than any other credit card company on the market* - enjoy the benefits of the Global Lounge Collection®, over $850 of annual value, with access to Centurion Lounges, 10 complimentary Delta Sky Club® visits when flying on an eligible Delta flight (subject to visit limitations), Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required), and other select partner lounges. * As of 07/2025.
- More Value! $200 Uber Cash + $120 Uber One Credit: With the Platinum Card® you can receive $15 in Uber Cash each month plus a bonus $20 in December when you add your Platinum Card® to your Uber account to use on rides and orders in the U.S when you select an Amex Card for your transaction. Plus, when you use the Platinum Card® to pay for an auto-renewing Uber One membership, you can get up to $120 in statement credits each calendar year. Terms apply.
- More Value! $300 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $25 in statement credits each month after you pay for eligible purchases with the Platinum Card® at participating partners. Enrollment required.
- More Value! $600 Hotel Credit: Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection* bookings through American Express Travel® using the Platinum Card®. *The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
- New! $400 Resy Credit + Platinum Nights by Resy: When you use the Platinum Card® to pay at U.S. Resy restaurants and to make other eligible purchases through Resy, you can get up to $100 in statement credits each quarter with the $400 Resy Credit benefit. Plus, with Platinum Nights by Resy, you can get special access to reservations on select nights at participating in demand Resy restaurants with the Platinum Card®. Simply add your eligible Card to your Resy profile to book and discover Platinum Nights reservations near you, enrollment required.
- More Value! $209 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps get you to your gate faster by using unique facial attributes to verify you are you at 50+ airports nationwide. You can cover the cost of a CLEAR Plus Membership* with up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for CLEAR Plus with the Platinum Card®. *Excluding any applicable taxes and fees. Subject to auto-renewal.
- $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees, such as checked bags and in-flight refreshments, are charged by the airline to the Platinum Card® Account*. American Express relies on airlines to submit the correct information on airline transactions to identify incidental fee purchases. If you do not see a credit for a qualifying incidental purchase on your eligible Card after 8 weeks, simply call the number on the back of your Card. Qualifying airlines are subject to change. See terms & conditions for more details.
- Start your vacation sooner, and keep it going longer. When you book Fine Hotels + Resorts® through American Express Travel®, enjoy noon check-in upon arrival, when available, and guaranteed 4PM check-out.
- New! $300 lululemon Credit: Enjoy up to $75 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card® for eligible purchases at U.S. lululemon retail stores (excluding outlets) and lululemon.com. That’s up to $300 in statement credits each calendar year. Enrollment required.
- $155 Walmart+ Credit: Receive a statement credit* for one monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) after you pay for Walmart+ each month with the Platinum Card®. *Up to $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups not eligible.
- $100 Saks Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases at Saks Fifth Avenue or saks.com on the Platinum Card®. That’s up to $50 in statement credits from January through June and up to $50 in statement credits from July through December. No minimum purchase required. Enrollment required.
- Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
- $895 annual fee.
- Terms Apply.
- See Rates & Fees
Best for business owners who prioritize premium travel perks
at American Express's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 5X | Earn 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X points on purchases at U.S. construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on each eligible purchase of $5,000 or more, up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus. |
| 1X | Earn 1X points on other eligible purchases. |
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express continues its long-standing streak as one of the most valuable cards on the market for frequent business travelers. The Amex Business Platinum card offers perks like automatic Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy Gold elite status (enrollment required) and statement credits that can be used toward business-specific purchases.
Pros
- No foreign transaction fees
- Offers easy to use business-specific statement credits
- Earns valuable and transferable Membership Rewards points
Cons
- $895 annual fee
- Elevated Welcome Offer: Earn 200,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Business Platinum Card® within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
- The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,550 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card company on the market as of 07/2025.
- See how you can unlock over $3,500 in business and travel value annually after meeting qualifying spend thresholds on the Business Platinum Card. Terms apply.
- New! Get up to $300 in statement credits semi-annually for up to a total of $600 in statement credits per calendar year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using the Business Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
- No Preset Spending Limit: The spending limit on the Business Platinum Card is flexible, so unlike a traditional credit card with a set limit, the amount you can spend adapts based on factors such as your purchase, payment and credit history.
- Make the Business Platinum Card® work even harder for you. Hilton For Business members get up to $200 back per calendar year when you make an eligible purchase at Hilton properties across the globe. Benefit enrollment required.
- Fly like a pro with a $200 Airline Fee Credit. Select one qualifying airline to receive up to $200 back per year on baggage fees and other incidentals.
- Use the Business Platinum Card and get up to $209 back per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal).
- Maximize your time away with Fine Hotels + Resorts through Amex Travel™.
- New! Enroll and get up to $150 in statement credits on U.S purchases directly with Dell Technologies on the Business Platinum Card and an additional $1,000 statement credit after you spend $5,000 or more on that same Card per calendar year.
- New! Enroll and get a $250 statement credit after you spend $600 or more on U.S. purchases directly with Adobe per calendar year on the Business Platinum Card.
- Get up to $90 in statement credits quarterly for purchases with Indeed on the Business Platinum Card. That’s up to $360 back per year. Enrollment required.
- Get up to $10 in statement credits per month for wireless telephone service purchases made directly with a wireless provider in the U.S. on the Business Platinum Card. That’s up to $120 back per year. Enrollment required.
- Enhanced! 2X points on purchases at U.S. construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on each eligible purchase of $5,000 or more, up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
- 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com
- 1X points on other eligible purchases
- $895 Annual Fee.
- Terms Apply.
Best for Delta business travelers
at American Express's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 3X | Earn 3 miles per dollar on eligible Delta purchases. |
If you’re a high-budget business owner and fly Delta often, the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business American Express Card is an elite airline card with a sleuth of benefits. While the card does come with a high annual fee, the impressive benefits including exclusive Delta SkyClub and Amex Centurion lounge access, airport, free checked bags, priority boarding and a fast track to Delta’s elite Medallion flying status by spending a considerable amount on the card. Read our full review of the Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business Amex Card.
Pros
- A companion certificate that can be used for a US, Mexico, Caribbean or South American first-class, Delta Comfort or domestic main cabin round-trip flight
- Exclusive lounge access
Cons
- Steep $650 annual fee
- Limited reward earning rates outside of Delta purchases
- Welcome Offer: Earn 80,000 Bonus Miles after spending $12,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
- Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business Members receive 15 Visits each Medallion® Year to the Delta Sky Club® and can unlock Unlimited Delta Sky Club Access after spending $75,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year.
- Earn 3 miles per dollar on eligible Delta purchases.
- Get closer to elevated Status next Medallion® Year with MQD Headstart and MQD Boost: receive $2,500 Medallion® Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and earn $1 MQD for each $10 on purchases with your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card.
- Enjoy a Companion Certificate on a Delta First, Delta Comfort, or Delta Main domestic, Caribbean, or Central American round-trip flight each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Certificate requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of between $22 and $250 (for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. Delta Basic experiences are not eligible for this benefit.
- With the $240 Resy Credit, earn up to $20 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled Card.
- Earn up to $10 back each month after using your enrolled Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers.
- Save 15% when booking Award Travel on Delta flights. Not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
- Not a Medallion Member? Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members.
- As a benefit of Card Membership, you can check your first bag free on Delta flights, saving up to $70 on a round-trip Delta flight per person. For a group of four that’s a potential savings of up to $280 per round-trip flight.
- When you purchase a Delta flight with your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business Card, you will receive complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge or Escape Lounge.
- Receive Zone 5 Priority Boarding on Delta flights; board early, stow your carry-on bag and settle in sooner.
- Elevate your travel experience with an annual statement credit of up to $250 after using your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card to book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays on delta.com.
- Enjoy travel without foreign transaction fees from American Express with your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card.
- Terms and limitations apply.
Best for Best mid-tier card for lounge access
American Express® Green Card
Information updated as of 10/30/2025
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on travel including airfare, hotels, cruises, tours, car rentals, campgrounds, and vacation rentals. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® Points on transit purchases including trains, taxicabs, rideshare services, ferries, tolls, parking, buses, and subways. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on eligible purchases at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the US. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® points on all other purchases. |
Pros
- Decent earning rates across popular spend categories
- Annual Clear Plus credit
- Annual LoungeBuddy credit
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons
- $150 annual fee
- May not offer much value if you’re not a frequent traveler
The American Express® Green Card is packed with value for the frequent jet setter who will maximize the travel credits and related perks that come with it. In addition to earning valuable Amex Membership Rewards points on purchases such as transit, flights, hotels and vacation rentals, this card offers a nice starter stash of points in the form of an attainable welcome bonus.
Comparing the best credit cards for airport lounge access
Credit card | Best for | Intro offer | Earning rate | Annual fee | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Limited-time offer at Capital One's secure site | premium travel | LIMITED-TIME OFFER: Earn 100,000 bonus miles Open Intro bonus Earn 100,000 bonus miles once you spend $10,000 on purchases in the first 6 months from account opening Earn 75,000 miles | 2 - 10X miles Open Rewards rates
| $395 | ||||||||
at Chase's secure site | travel and dining combined | 125,000 bonus points Open Intro bonus Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. | 1 - 8X points Open Rewards rates
| $795 | ||||||||
at American Express's secure site | Delta flyers | Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles Open Intro bonus Earn 70,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. | 1 - 3X miles Open Rewards rates
| $650 | ||||||||
+ New benefits at American Express's secure site | premium travel perks and digital entertainment | As High As 175,000 points. Find Out Your Offer. Open Intro bonus You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. | 5X points Open Rewards rates
| $895 | ||||||||
Elevated welcome offer at American Express's secure site | business owners who prioritize premium travel perks | Earn 200,000 Membership Rewards® points Open Intro bonus Elevated Welcome Offer: Earn 200,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Business Platinum Card® within the first 3 months of Card Membership. | 1 - 5X points Open Rewards rates
| $895 | ||||||||
at American Express's secure site | Delta business travelers | Earn 80,000 Bonus Miles Open Intro bonus Earn 80,000 Bonus Miles after spending $12,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. | 3X miles Open Rewards rates
| $650 | ||||||||
American Express® Green Card * *The information about the American Express® Green Card has been collected independently by ThePointsGuy.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer. Information updated as of 10/30/2025 | Best mid-tier card for lounge access | Earn 40,000 points Open Intro bonus Earn 40,000 Membership Rewards® Points
after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your American Express Green Card® within the first 6 months of Card Membership. | 1 - 3X points Open Rewards rates
| $150 |
More details on the best credit cards for airport lounge access
The Venture X packs a punch as a premium travel card, including extensive lounge access. There are now three Capital One Lounges open, featuring excellent amenities for U.S. travelers. In addition, the $300 annual credit through Capital One Travel — which effectively lowers the $395 annual fee to just $95 a year.
Anyone who wants to earn more than 1 mile per dollar on every purchase and travelers who value access to more than 1,300 airport lounges after enrolling in Priority Pass™, travel credits and valuable transfer partners. The dedicated Capital One lounges accessible with this card may be all you need to know to decide.
“The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the card that rewards me for every purchase I make with 2 miles per dollar spent that I can then use toward my travel goals. I also love how easy it is to earn and redeem my miles either through transferring to partners or erasing travel purchases, big or small” — Ashley Onadele, sponsored content writer
The American Express Platinum Card® offers more extensive airport lounge access and a longer list of benefits and perks, which can easily offset the card's hefty $895 annual fee (see rates and fees).
The Sapphire Reserve offers exceptional value for frequent travelers through generous rewards on travel spending, flexible point transfers and over $2,700 in potential annual perks.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve is best suited for travelers who can take full advantage of its elevated earning rates, statement credits and wide range of luxury benefits.
If you regularly spend on travel and lifestyle purchases, and want a premium reward card that delivers both luxury benefits and long-term value, the Sapphire Reserve is a card you should consider.
If you're looking for similar premium travel benefits but are an Amex loyalist, the American Express Platinum Card® is a strong competitor. It carries a big annual fee of $895 (see rates and fees) and offers extensive luxury perks, including access to the Amex Global Lounge Collection for eligible card members, complimentary Hilton and Marriott elite status (enrollment is required for select benefits), and annual statement credits across categories like airfare, hotels, ridesharing services, digital entertainment and more. Its rewards are also flexible to redeem for general travel, but are mostly focused on luxury experiences.
For those looking for a more budget-friendly entry point into travel rewards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a popular alternative — and one of our favorite beginner travel cards here at TPG. It has a much lower fee of $95, earns 3 points per dollar spent on dining, 2 points per dollar spent on travel and offers access to the same Chase Ultimate Rewards transfer partners. While it lacks the premium perks of the Sapphire Reserve, it still provides solid travel protections and the ability to build up a stash of valuable points over time. It’s a great starter card for those new to travel rewards or not yet ready to commit to a premium card.
This card rewards anyone who flies Delta. As well as helping earn valuable elite Medallion status in the SkyMiles program, the card offers a generous three SkyMiles per dollar spent with Delta, an annual domestic, Caribbean or South American roundtrip companion certificate and SkyClub and Centurion airport lounge access.
Reserve cardmembers will receive 15 visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of visits each year, the total eligible purchases on the card must equal $75,000 or more during a calendar year and each calendar year thereafter.
While plenty of travel credit cards provide airport lounge access, if you mainly fly with Delta, you'll want to get into its well-regarded Delta Sky Club lounges. Luckily, one of the primary benefits of this card is complimentary access to Delta Sky Clubs when flying Delta. If your home airport offers a Sky Club, this card could be a no-brainer to add to your wallet.
Reserve cardmembers will receive 15 visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of visits each year, the total eligible purchases on the card must equal $75,000 or more during a calendar year, and each calendar year thereafter.
Delta Medallions spend a lot of time on Delta jets. The Delta Reserve card will help maintain status by offering a boost of 2,500 Medallion Qualification Dollars at the start of the year, plus the card's annual companion ticket is valid on first-class itineraries and can help offset the card's annual fee for multiple years.
If you're eligible for a business card, you might prefer the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card. It has a lot of similarities to the consumer version, including lounge access, but with the option to put your business expenses on the card and potentially rack up more SkyMiles.
Reserve cardmembers will receive 15 visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of visits each year, the total eligible purchases on the card must equal $75,000 or more each calendar year.
The American Express Platinum Card® is a great travel companion thanks to perks like no foreign transaction fees and enhancements like a generous up to $600 hotel credit (disbursed as up to $300 in statement credits biannually). Now, it also features more lifestyle credits that cardmembers can take advantage of to help offset its hefty annual fee. Enrollment required.
Frequent travelers and digital entertainment subscribers will enjoy travel perks like lounge access and an up to $209 Clear Plus statement credit in addition to an up to $300 digital entertainment credit (disbursed as up to $25 per month in statement credits). Enrollment may be required and you may be subject to auto-renewal.
Adding this card to your rotation makes sense if you can use its perks and statement credits to offset its $895 annual fee.
If you want a premium travel and lifestyle card that’s not nearly $900, consider the Chase Sapphire Reserve®. It features a $795 annual fee — which is still a big figure — but offers several similar perks and credits that offset this fee, and it earns transferable Ultimate Rewards points, one of the most valuable reward currencies on the market.
Business owners get to take advantage of solid travel perks but also business-specific perks such as an up to $120 wireless telephone service statement credit (up to $10 per month) for wireless telephone service purchases made directly with a wireless provider in the U.S.. Enrollment required.
Business travelers who can take advantage of this card’s statement credits and would benefit from perks like lounge access and hotel elite status.
If you’re often on the go for work trips, this Amex Business Platinum card is a solid choice. It’s packed with travel-related statement credits and benefits in addition to offering business-specific perks that are pretty straightforward to use.
If you’re in the market for a premium business card but don’t want to commit to the Amex Business Platinum, consider the Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business℠. Like its consumer counterpart, the Sapphire Reserve for Business earns valuable Ultimate Rewards points and also offers business-related statement credits and perks.
The most premium Delta credit card offered to business owners, this card helps earn elite Medallion status in the SkyMiles program and offers Sky Club and Centurion airport lounge access. For regular Delta travelers, the additional perks of a free checked bag, Zone 1 priority boarding and 20% savings on inflight purchases are all valuable benefits offered by a single credit card.
Reserve cardmembers will receive 15 visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of visits each year, the total eligible purchases on the card must equal $75,000 or more during a calendar year, and each calendar year thereafter.
Business owners who fly Delta regularly and would value Sky Club and Centurion lounge access. Also, those looking to reach elite Medallion status sooner with the help of a credit card that can provide perks like complimentary upgrades, priority airport services and additional baggage allowances.
Reserve cardmembers will receive 15 visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of visits each year, the total eligible purchases on the card must equal $75,000 or more during a calendar year, and each calendar year thereafter.
“The Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business Amex helped me attain airline status without actually having status. As a newbie Delta flyer, I wanted to have a credit card that would make my overall travel experience better. Access to the Delta Sky Club and Centurion lounges when flying Delta are massive perks. The ability to earn triple miles when making Delta purchases, an annual companion pass and a 15% discount when using my SkyMiles to book award travel make the high annual fee on this card worth it.” — Hannah Streck, senior SEO manager
Reserve cardmembers will receive 15 visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of visits each year, the total eligible purchases on the card must equal $75,000 or more during a calendar year, and each calendar year thereafter.
If you want a Delta card with a lower annual fee, the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum Business American Express Card offers Delta perks like an annual companion certificate and a faster path to elite status that could be a better fit for regular Delta travelers.
The Amex Green card is a mid-tier credit card with an annual fee of $150. It features a solid welcome offer, an annual LoungeBuddy credit and other travel-related benefits. LoungeBuddy is a lounge network of more than 200 lounges around the world. Cardholders can use their Amex Green Card to pay for LoungeBuddy visits since they receive up to $100 in statement credits every calendar year. Additionally, cardholders are able to earn American Express Membership Rewards points and transfer them to any of Amex’s 17 airline and three hotel partners.
The information for the American Express Green Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
The Amex Green is best suited for those who frequent LoungeBuddy lounges but don’t frequent other airport lounges enough to justify a higher annual fee card with more extensive lounge access.
Consider the Amex Green Card if you travel frequently, want LoungeBuddy lounge access and are looking to build — or add to — a stash of Membership Rewards points.
If you are looking for the ultimate lounge access card, consider the American Express Platinum Card®, which features exclusive Centurion lounge access, Priority Pass lounge access and additional complimentary access to over 1,400 lounges worldwide. Enrollment is required.
Credit pointers with Brian Kelly
How we rate cards
Is lounge access worth it?
Lounge access is an essential perk for frequent travelers. According to a TPG newsletter survey, a whopping 80% of our readers rank lounge access as one of the top three most valuable card benefits. From a quiet place to work to a peaceful space to unwind during your layover, lounge access can make for an easy — and, dare we say — relaxing travel experience.
Ask our experts
What is the best airport lounge access credit card — and why?
How to choose the best airport lounge access credit card
- Look for a credit card that provides access to a wide network of airport lounges that align with your travel habits and destinations.1Lounge network coverage
- Understand the eligibility criteria for accessing the lounges with the credit card, which may include flying on a specific airline or alliance, having status in an airline loyalty program, or meeting a minimum spending requirement.2Eligibility requirements
- Having guest access can be beneficial if you frequently travel with a companion. If the card does not allow guest access, your travel companion may consider getting their own card with lounge access.3Guest access
Pros + cons of lounge access credit cards
Pros
- Unlocking lounge access with a credit card can make your travel experience much less stressful
- Most lounge access credit cards earn rewards on every purchase that can be used for future vacations
- Many credit cards with lounge access include many additional perks — like travel benefits and statement credits for select purchases
- Carrying a card with lounge access can be less expensive than frequently purchasing lounge access outright
Cons
- If you spend beyond your means on a lounge access credit card, you’ll incur large interest charges and can damage your credit
- Most credit cards with lounge access incur high annual fees, so they may not be worthwhile for infrequent travelers
- Many card issuers have restricted lounge access in recent years, making it harder to bring in guests or family members for free
- Your home airport may not have a lounge for you to access with a credit card
Frequently asked questions
Airport lounges typically offer a more relaxed and comfortable environment to prepare for your flight than the crowded terminal. They provide comfortable seating, quiet areas, Wi-Fi access, charging points, complimentary food and beverages, and sometimes even showers and spa facilities.
If you have to work or need a quiet space to relax before your flight, airport lounges can provide a more conducive environment than a busy terminal. For those travelers who frequently experience flight delays or have long layovers, access to an airport lounge can make your wait more comfortable and enjoyable. However, check access times to see how early you can access a lounge before your next flight.
To start your journey as comfortably as possible, away from the chaos of a busy airport terminal, these are the best credit cards with airport lounge access to elevate your experience ahead of your next flight:
- Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: Best premium travel credit card
- American Express Platinum Card®: Best consumer card for airport lounges
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Best for Priority Pass lounges and restaurants
- Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card: Best for Delta flyers
- The Business Platinum Card from American Express: Best business card
- Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business American Express Card: Best for Delta flyers traveling for business
Depending on how frequently you travel, the airports you visit and the airlines you fly, having multiple cards that offer access to different lounge networks may make sense. Since you can only access Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and American Airlines lounges when flying those specific carriers, having the correct credit card for lounge access is essential.
You can cover your bases by holding a card that offers airline-specific lounge access for your favorite airline and another card that offers independent lounge access when flying other airlines that do not partner with your preferred airline.
Related: 4 reasons why the Amex Platinum might be the ideal credit card for Delta flyers
The easiest way to get free airport lounge access is to sign up for a credit card that offers lounge access as a complimentary perk. However, you can snag airport lounge access with some types of airline elite status.
Priority Pass is an airport lounge membership program that provides members with access to more than 1,300 airport lounges — and sometimes non-lounge experiences such as restaurants — around the world. With a Priority Pass membership, you can visit some of the best Priority Pass lounges regardless of the airline you’re flying or your ticket class. You can even access Priority Pass lounges when you’re flying in economy class on a low-cost airline.
If you have Priority Pass access benefits through a credit card, you’ll usually need to enroll in Priority Pass Select. However, the access policies vary across cards, so be sure to determine what benefits your card offers before heading to the airport. For example, Priority Pass Select memberships for American Express cards don’t cover visits to restaurant lounges. And cards with lower annual fees often only offer 10 complimentary lounge visits per year.
Related: The best credit cards for Priority Pass lounge access
Enrollment required for select benefits.
Centurion Lounges are high-end lounges accessible to select American Express cardmembers. These lounges are often known for offering locally curated, high-quality dining and drinks. Some Centurion Lounges even provide other perks, including spa services and wine tasting.
Airport lounges typically provide access to seating, power, Wi-Fi, nonalcoholic drinks and snacks for no additional charge. However, some airport lounges offer other amenities such as meals, spa services, shower rooms, meeting rooms and alcoholic drinks. And in some cases, these additional amenities are also complimentary for anyone who has access to the lounge.