Top Credit Cards for Airport Lounge Access

Credit cards are more than just a way to pay for your everyday expenses. Nowadays, they provide numerous benefits that enhance your travel experience. One of those perks is airport lounge access. Instead of waiting for your flight in the airport terminal’s hustle and bustle, you have the opportunity to relax in a lounge with comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, and even extras like showers and spa treatments. The best part is that many lounges can be accessed simply by possessing the right credit card. Below is a detailed look at some of the best credit cards offering airport lounge access, helping you decide which one may suit your needs best.

1. The Platinum Card from American Express

The Platinum Card from American Express is often regarded as the premier credit card for airport lounge access. With access to over 1,200 lounges globally through the Global Lounge Collection, this card includes acclaimed Centurion Lounges that feature menus crafted by local chefs and premium cocktails. Furthermore, certain locations offer perks like spa treatments and exclusive “secret” speakeasy bars.

Additionally, this card provides access to these networks: International American Express Lounges; Priority Pass; Escape Lounges; and Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta Air Lines), among others.

2. Chase Sapphire Reserve

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card is the premium option among Chase Ultimate Rewards cards, offering one of the best Priority Pass memberships available. Priority Pass is an independent lounge network that features over 1,300 locations worldwide.

What sets the Chase Sapphire Reserve apart is its inclusion of non-lounge experiences, which are not present with American Express or Capital One credit cards. These non-lounge experiences encompass restaurants, sleeping areas, and even spas, with Priority Pass restaurant access providing $28 credits for food and drinks for the cardholder and a guest.

Moreover, Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders gain exclusive access to the new Chase Sapphire Terrace at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, which includes complimentary local beverages and light snacks, alongside entertainment options such as shuffleboard.

3. Capital One Venture X Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X card offers access to one of the most exciting new lounge brands: Capital One Lounges. Currently, there is a location at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), with two more set to open in 2023 at Denver International Airport (DEN) and Dulles International Airport (IAD).

The Capital One Lounge at DFW features premium amenities such as gourmet grab-and-go options, dining stations, a bar, a yoga room, and a shower suite. Additionally, the Capital One Venture X card includes a Priority Pass membership, granting access to Plaza Premium Lounges and allowing cardholders to bring two guests with them to lounges.

4. Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card

The Delta SkyMiles Reserve card provides complimentary access to Delta Sky Clubs, along with two one-time guest passes for traveling companions. Beyond this, cardholders pay $50 each for up to two additional guests per visit. Delta Sky Clubs provide complimentary food, beverages, Wi-Fi, flight assistance, and even showers in select locations.

In addition, cardholders gain access to Centurion Lounges when flying on a Delta flight booked with the Delta Reserve card, making this one of the few cards, alongside the Amex Platinum and Business Platinum cards, that afford such privileges.

5. Citi AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard

For those frequently flying American Airlines, the Citi AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard might be a perfect choice. This is the only credit card that includes an Admirals Club membership, which typically costs $650. Considering the card’s annual fee is $450, it’s undeniably advantageous for anyone valuing Admirals Club access.

Nearly 50 Admirals Clubs, alongside over 60 partner lounges, can be accessed with this Mastercard, which offers complimentary food, beverages, business centers, and shower facilities in certain locations.

6. United Club Infinite Card

The United Club Infinite Card offers complimentary United Club memberships and access to participating Star Alliance partner lounges when flying United Airlines or partner airlines. This membership typically costs $650 per year, providing great value in the form of comfortable airport lounges with complimentary snacks, drinks, and high-speed internet.

7. Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

The Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card is loaded with benefits, offering a $250 airline fee credit, an annual Hilton free night, and top-tier Hilton Diamond status, which includes free Wi-Fi, executive lounge access, and room upgrades at Hilton properties. The card also includes lounge access through a Priority Pass membership.

8. Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express card is among the best hotel credit cards currently available. Although it has an annual fee of $650, its suite of benefits includes a $300 dining credit, a free night at Marriott annually, and a complimentary Priority Pass membership. The cardholder also receives Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, which includes bonus points on stays, late checkout, welcome amenities, and room upgrades.