If you don’t have a credit card with lounge access, you may still be able to gain entry. Many airlines allow you to buy memberships or one-time passes for a fee. United Airlines, for example, sells one-time passes for its United Clubs for $59. American Airlines Admirals Club® offers several annual membership options with fees of up to $1,250 for a household membership. Some lounge networks, like Centurion, do not sell lounge access passes or memberships.
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Best Credit Cards With Airport Lounge Access 2025
Content was accurate at the time of publication.
Winner
Winner
American Express Platinum Card®
American Express Platinum Card® is the best card for lounge access because it comes with access to several popular airport lounge networks.
Best Credit Cards With Airport Lounge Access 2023
Citi is an advertising partner.
Airports worldwide are home to one of the best perks for travelers — airport lounges. Instead of cramming into a seat at your gate, lounges provide comfort, convenience and complimentary services to help you relax and unwind before your flight.
The question is how do you gain access to airport lounges? Many credit cards come with airport lounge memberships or passes. These cards tend to have higher annual fees than other cards, but often the cost is more than made up through the value of lounge access and other card perks. Below are some of our top picks for credit cards with airport lounge access so you can determine if one is right for you.
Best card for lounge access overall and international lounge access
American Express Platinum Card®*
LendingTree's Review
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Over 1,200 airport lounges in over 120 countries, including Centurion and Delta Sky Club lounges
- Generous rewards program
- Access to a large, worldwide network of airport lounges
- Rewards transfer to 15+ loyalty programs
- $1,000+ worth of credits
- Concierge service
- High annual fee
- Limited acceptance at some merchants
American Express Platinum Card® is the best card for airport lounge access hands-down. Cardholders get access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, which includes Priority Pass™ Select membership, exclusive access to Amex’s own Centurion lounges, and entry into Delta Sky Clubs before or during Delta flights. The card also comes with a laundry list of credits, benefits and protections like up to a $200 airline fee credit (enrollment required) and upgraded hotel status with Hilton and Marriott (enrollment required).
*To see rates & fees for American Express Platinum Card®, please click here.
- Lounge network: American Express Global Lounge Collection, International American Express Lounges, Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Club, Escape Lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, Priority Pass Lounges (enrollment required), Air Space Lounges
- Number of lounges: Over 1,200 airport lounges in over 120 countries
- Authorized user access: You can add additional card members for a fee. Additional card members have the same lounge access as the primary card member.
- Guest policy: Guest policies vary depending on the specific lounge network. Many allow up to two guests per visit.
- When can you access lounges?: Lounge access is for same-day travel only.
- You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $12,000 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.
- 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.
- $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.
- $300 Digital Entertainment Credit: Experience the latest shows, news and recipes. Get up to $25 in statement credits each month when you use your Platinum Card® for eligible purchases on Disney+, a Disney+ bundle, ESPN streaming services, Hulu, The New York Times, Paramount+, Peacock, The Wall Street Journal, YouTube Premium, and YouTube TV when you purchase directly from one or more of the providers. Enrollment required.
- $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.
- $400 Resy Credit + Platinum Nights by Resy: Get up to $100 in statement credits each quarter when you use the Platinum Card® to make eligible purchases with Resy, including dining purchases at U.S. Resy restaurants. Enrollment required. 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.
- $209 CLEAR+ Credit: CLEAR+ helps get you to your gate faster by using your face to verify you are you at 55+ airports nationwide. You can cover the cost of a CLEAR+ Membership* with up to $209 in statement credits per calendar year after you pay for CLEAR+ with your 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, when available, and guaranteed 4PM check-out.
- $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.
- 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.
*The information related to the American Express Platinum Card® has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.
Runner-up for best card with international lounge access
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card*
LendingTree's Review
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Access to more than 100 international lounges
- Earn miles at a high rate on every purchase
- Access Capital One lounges in addition to Priority Pass
- Points transfer to 10+ loyalty programs
- $300 annual travel credit
- 10,000 mile anniversary bonus
- High annual fee
- Priority Pass is inferior to other lounge programs
- There are few Capital One lounges
- No major U.S. airline transfer partners
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is another strong pick for international lounge access. Its Plaza Premium Group feature allows you to access more than 100 international lounges. It has access to Priority Pass lounges on top of that — and at a $395 annual fee, which is lower than American Express Platinum Card® and the Chase Sapphire Reserve®.
- Lounge network: Priority Pass™ Select, Plaza Premium Group, Capital One
- Number of lounges: Over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide
- Authorized user access: Authorized users receive the same full complimentary access to lounges as primary cardholders.
- Guest policy: Primary cardholders and authorized users are allowed a maximum of two guests per visit. Passes for additional guests cost $45 per guest per visit at Capital One lounges.
- When can you access lounges?: Lounge access is for same-day travel only.
- Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 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 and Landing locations and participating 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®
- Top rated mobile app
- For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply
*The information related to the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.
Best credit card with Priority Pass lounge access
Chase Sapphire Reserve®*
LendingTree's Review
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Lowest cost for a Priority Pass membership
- Generous earning rate on travel
- Priority Pass lounge access
- Transfer points to 10+ loyalty programs
- $300 flexible travel credit
- High annual fee
- $75 authorized user fee
- Priority Pass is inferior to other lounge programs
Chase Sapphire Reserve® is our top pick for Priority Pass perks since you get lounge access for the most reasonable annual fee. The card has a $795 annual fee, but also comes with a $300 annual travel credit that applies to most travel purchases and cancels out most of that fee. Essentially, as long as you travel enough to use up the travel credit, you’ll get access to more than 1,300 airport lounges worldwide for a cost of just $250 per year.
- Lounge network: Priority Pass™ Select
- Number of lounges: Over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide
- Authorized user access: Authorized users receive the same full complimentary access to lounges as primary cardholders.
- Guest policy: Primary cardholders and authorized users are allowed a maximum of two guests per visit. Passes for additional guests cost $32 per guest per visit.
- When can you access lounges?: Lounge access is for same-day travel only.
- 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
*The information related to the Chase Sapphire Reserve® has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.
Best card with lounge access for business
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express*
LendingTree's Review
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Over 1,200 airport lounges in over 120 countries, including Centurion and Delta Sky Club lounges
- Enhanced rewards program for business expenses
- Rewards transfer to 15+ loyalty programs
- Access to large, worldwide network of airport lounges
- $1,000+ worth of credits
- High annual fee
- Limited acceptance at some merchants
If you’re a fan of American Express Platinum Card®, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express is just as good, if not better. It’s our top pick for a business card with lounge benefits because it offers access to the same lounge networks as the consumer version of the card, including Priority Pass™ Select membership, access to Amex Centurion lounges, and access to Delta Sky Clubs when flying Delta. While a $895 annual fee applies, business owners with this card get valuable business credits, such as up to $400 in credits from Dell and up to $360 in credits with Indeed (enrollment required).
*To see rates & fees for The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, please click here.
- Lounge network(s): American Express Global Lounge Collection, International American Express Lounges
Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Club, Escape Lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, Priority Pass Lounges (enrollment required), Air Space Lounges - Number of lounges: Over 1,200 airport lounges in over 120 countries
- Authorized user access: You can add additional card members for a fee. Additional card members have the same lounge access as the primary card member.
- Guest policy: Guest policies vary depending on the specific lounge network. Many allow up to two guests per visit.
- When can you access lounges?: Lounge access is for same-day travel only.
- As High As 300,000 points. Find Out Your Offer. You may be eligible for as high as 300,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $20,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
- 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.
- 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. Gift cards are not an eligible purchase. 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+ Membership (subject to auto-renewal).
- Maximize your time away with Fine Hotels + Resorts through Amex Travel™.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- Terms Apply.
*The information related to the The Business Platinum Card® from American Express has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.
Best credit card for Admirals Club® lounge access
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®*
LendingTree's Review
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Access to nearly 50 Admirals Club® lounges and 60 partner lounges
- Generous airline rewards program
- Admirals Club® membership
- Travel benefits
- No foreign transaction fees
- High annual fee
- Limited to Admirals Clubs® and partners
The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® is the only credit card that comes with American Airlines Admirals Club® membership. While a $595 annual fee applies, Admirals Club® membership is actually worth up to $650 if you chose to pay for it outright. Getting the card instead gives you several airline-related perks, including priority check-in, security, and boarding privileges and a Global Entry or TSA Precheck fee credit.
- Lounge network(s): Admirals Club®
- Number of lounges: Nearly 50 lounges plus access to 60 partner lounges
- Authorized user access: No charge to add authorized users. Authorized users have access to domestic and international Admirals Club® locations but not full membership privileges.
- Guest policy: Up to two guests free
- When can you access lounges?: Lounge access is for same-day travel only.
- Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after $7,000 in purchases in the first 3 months of account opening.
- Admirals Club® membership for you and access for up to two guests or immediate family members traveling with you
- No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases
- Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases
- First checked bag is free on domestic American Airlines itineraries for you and up to 8 companions traveling with you on the same reservation
*The information related to the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.
Best credit card for Delta Sky Club lounge access
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card*
LendingTree's Review
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Delta SkyClub membership, plus access to Centurion lounges
- Solid earning rate
- Access to Delta Sky Club and Centurion lounges
- Annual companion certificate
- Access to other perks with Delta Air Lines
- High annual fee
- Limited to Delta SkyClub and Centurion lounges
The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is the only co-branded consumer credit card from Delta that offers Delta Sky Club membership as well as access to Amex’s exclusive Centurion Lounge network. While a $550 annual fee is required to get this card, purchasing Delta Sky Club membership alone would set you back a minimum of $650 Cardholders also get a round-trip companion pass every year, a first checked bag free on Delta flights and more.
*To see rates & fees for Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, please click here.
- Lounge network(s): Delta SkyClub, Centurion
- Number of lounges: 50+ Delta SkyClub Lounges, 40+ Centurion Lounges
- Authorized user access: Authorized users receive full lounge access
- Guest policy: Up to two guests at a per-visit rate of $39 each at Delta SkyClub and $50 each at Centurion lounges.
- When can you access lounges?: Lounge access is for same-day travel on Delta flights.
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 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.
- 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 in the U.S. and select international locations (as set forth on the Centurion Lounge Website), Sidecar by The Centurion® Lounge in the U.S. (see the Centurion Lounge Website for more information on Sidecar by The Centurion® Lounge availability), and Escape Lounges when flying on a Delta flight booked with the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card. § To access Sidecar by The Centurion® Lounge, Card Members must arrive within 90 minutes of their departing flight (including layovers). To access The Centurion® Lounge, Card Members must arrive within 3 hours of their departing flight. Effective July 8, 2026, during a layover, Card Members must arrive within 5 hours of the connecting flight.
- 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 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.
- $240 Resy Credit: When you use your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card for eligible purchases at over 10,000 qualifying 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.
- Terms Apply.
*The information related to the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.
Best credit card for United Club lounge access
The New United Club℠ Card*
LendingTree's Review
How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?
Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.Access to 45+ lounges, including United Polaris lounges
- United Club membership
- United airline perks
- Car rental elite status
- High annual fee
- Limited to United Club and Polaris lounges
United fans will love the The New United Club℠ Card since it comes with access to United Club lounges and premium travel services when flying United. Major benefits outside of airport lounge access include first and second checked bags free, priority check-in and boarding and a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit. The annual fee on this card is $695, whereas paying for United Club membership costs a minimum of $650.
- Lounge network(s): United Club
- Number of lounges: 45+ United Club lounges, six United Polaris lounges
- Authorized user access: Authorized users can only access lounges as a guest of the primary cardholder.
- Guest policy: Up to two free guests per visit
- When can you access lounges?: Lounge access if for same-day travel on United and Star Alliance flights.
- Earn 90,000 bonus miles
- 4x miles on United® purchases
- 2x miles on dining and all other travel
- 1x mile on all other purchases
- United Club℠ card membership - at least a $750 value
- Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $360 per roundtrip (terms apply) - and Premier Access® travel services
- Earn a 10,000-mile award flight discount after $20,000 in purchases to use toward an eligible award flight - up to two times each calendar year
- Member FDIC
*The information related to the The New United Club℠ Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.
Best credit card for lounge access and a low annual fee
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card*
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Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings. Read our credit card methodology here.10 Priority Pass visits each year with a low annual fee
- Generous rewards
- Complimentary Hilton Honors Gold status (enrollment required)
- 10 Priority Pass visits per year
- Annual fee
- You’re limited to 10 lounge visits per year
- Limited rewards options outside of Hilton
The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card is great for infrequent travelers since it comes with 10 free passes to Priority Pass airport lounges with an annual fee of just $150 per year. Earning rates for this card are also generous, and it comes with valuable hotel perks, like Hilton Honors Gold status (enrollment required).
- Lounge network(s): 10 complimentary Priority Pass™ Select passes
- Number of lounges: 1,300+ lounges
- Authorized user access: Authorized users don’t receive this benefit but may use complimentary passes for lounge access.
- Guest policy: Complimentary passes may be used for guests.
- When can you access lounges?: Access is for same-day travel only.
- Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points with the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership.
- Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors™ Gold status with your Card. Plus, spend $40,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn an upgrade to Hilton Honors Diamond status through the end of the next calendar year.
- Get up to $50 in statement credits each quarter for purchases made directly with a property in the Hilton portfolio on your Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card. That’s up to $200 in statement credits annually.
- Earn a Free Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year.
- Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio.
- Earn 6X Points for each dollar of purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
- Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases.
- Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
- As a Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card Member, you can enroll to receive complimentary National Car Rental® Emerald Club Executive® status through the link on your American Express online account. After you’re enrolled, you can reserve a rental car by calling National Car Rental directly, using your travel service, or by booking online or through the National Car Rental mobile app. Terms apply.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
- Whenever you travel more than 100 miles from home, Global Assist® Hotline is available for 24/7 emergency assistance and coordination services, including medical and legal referrals, emergency cash wires, and missing luggage assistance. Card Members are responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers. Other terms and conditions apply.
- Points don’t expire while your Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card is active and in good standing.
- $150 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.
*The information related to the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.
Compare the best credit cards for lounge access
| Credit Cards | Our Ratings | Welcome Offer | Rewards Rate | Annual Fee | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
American Express Platinum Card®*
|
Winner
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You may be eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $12,000 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 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. Terms apply. | $895 | |
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Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card*
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International runner-up
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Earn 75,000 Miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening | 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day; 10 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel; 5 Miles per dollar on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel | $395 | |
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Chase Sapphire Reserve®*
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Priority Pass
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Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. | 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 | $795 | |
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The Business Platinum Card® from American Express*
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Business
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You may be eligible for as high as 300,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $20,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 3 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. | Earn 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on AmexTravel.com. 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. Earn 1X points on other eligible purchases | $895 | |
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Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®*
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Admirals Club®
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Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after $7,000 in purchases in the first 3 months of account opening. | Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases | $595 | |
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Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card*
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Delta SkyClub
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You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. | Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases. Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases. | $650 | |
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The New United Club℠ Card*
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United Club
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Earn 90,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. | 4x miles on United® purchases, 2x miles on dining and all other travel and 1x mile on all other purchases. | $695 | |
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Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card*
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Low annual fee
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Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points with the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card after you spend $3,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months of Card Membership. | Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton Portfolio. Earn 6X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. gas stations. Earn 4X Points for each dollar on U.S. Online Retail Purchases. Earn 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card. | $150 |
*The information related to the American Express Platinum Card®, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve®, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®, Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, The New United Club℠ Card and Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card has been collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms Apply.
Is lounge access worth it?
Getting a credit card with airport lounge access is worth the cost if you travel often to destinations with lounges within your network. Airport lounges offer several amenities and benefits for travelers including:
- Complimentary food and beverages (including alcohol)
- Wi-Fi access
- Comfortable, quiet spaces to work or relax
- Charging stations and outlets
- Credits to airport restaurants sometimes
- Shower facilities
- Quiet rooms
- Newspapers and magazines
- Guest privileges
- Business centers
Having lounge access is only valuable if you plan to take advantage of the perks that come with it. If you only fly a few times a year, a credit card with lounge access may not be the best fit.
How do I get free airport lounge access?
There are a few ways to get free airport lounge access:
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Credit cards
One of the best ways is through credit cards. Some credit cards offer complimentary access to a lounge network (multiple lounge networks in some cases).
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Elite status
Some airlines allow you to access lounges if you’ve achieved a higher status in their frequent flyer program.
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Fly in first class
In some cases, especially with domestic flights, booking a first-class flight can earn you free entry into an airport lounge on the day of your flight.
Keep in mind that there is still a cost involved — either through purchasing airfare with the airline or paying the annual fee for a card with lounge access. You just aren’t paying directly for lounge access.
What are the best lounge networks?
If you’re looking for the best lounge networks to join, there are several to choose from. Below are some of the most popular airport lounge networks among travelers today.
- Membership fee: N/A
- Number of lounge locations: 40+ (including Centurion Lounges and Escape Lounges)
- Best cards for access: American Express Platinum Card®, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
The Centurion lounge network is home to more than 40 world-class airport lounges worldwide. The network includes Centurion and Escape lounges. Features often include complimentary drinks and food prepared by world-class chefs and carefully crafted seating areas for work or relaxation.
- Membership fee: Standard $99/year, Standard Plus $399/year, Prestige $469/year
- Number of lounge locations: 1,300-plus worldwide
- Best cards for access: Chase Sapphire Reserve®, American Express Platinum Card®, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
Priority Pass is among the most popular airport lounges because of its vast number of lounges available worldwide. The network is home to over 1,300 lounges in 600 cities worldwide. Lounges feature standard amenities like Wi-Fi and refreshments. Some Priority Pass lounges offer perks like spa treatments and sleeping rooms.
- Membership fee: $550 to $1,250
- Number of lounge locations: Nearly 50 lounges plus access to 60 partner lounges
- Best cards for access: Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
Admirals Club® is American Airlines’ airport lounge network. The network has almost 50 lounges spread across the world. Members also get access to 60 partner lounges. Admirals Club® lounges feature snacks, made-to-order food, beverages, business centers, shower suites and personal travel assistance.
Membership fee: $550 to $650
Number of lounge locations: 45+ United Club lounges, six United Polaris lounges
Best cards for access: The New United Club℠ Card, The New United℠ Business Card
United Club is the lounge network for United Airlines. Along with over 45 lounges worldwide, select members and travelers can also access its six United Polaris lounges. Members also have access to select Star Alliance partner lounges too. Lounges feature standard amenities like free snacks and beverages, comfortable seating, and Wi-Fi.
The information related to the The New United℠ Business Card has been independently collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication.
Membership fee: $695 to $1,495
Number of lounge locations: 50+ lounges worldwide
Best cards for access: Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
Delta Sky Club has locations around the world to meet travelers’ needs. Features often include complimentary beverage services and food, Wi-Fi, satellite TV, business centers, and shower facilities.
Can you pay for airport lounge access?
How to use lounge access at airports
Airport lounges can be an enjoyable and relaxing experience for travelers. You can maximize your experience by following these tips.
Take time to familiarize yourself with your lounge network before visiting. Learn what perks come with lounge membership, lounge locations, guest pass policies, family and kids policies and other pertinent program details.
Once you have flights booked, find out what lounges are available at your departure and arrival airports. Lounges often have their own set of policies, procedures, and hours. Find out if there’s anything special you need to know before your visit. Figure out where it’s located in the airport in relation to your gate.
Plan on arriving at least 30 minutes early to take advantage of all of the lounge’s amenities. Having to rush through your lounge time, grab a quick snack and sit for a minute is not enjoyable. Always plan for enough time to enjoy lounge access.
Another way to maximize your lounge visit is to do a lap around the entire lounge before sitting down. That way, you know what they offer and where everything’s located. Check out all of the amenities and seating areas before you settle in.
Sometimes airport lounges can be too relaxing. Remember that you’re at the airport for a reason — your flight. Make a note of your flight’s boarding time to avoid missing it. Set an alarm if you think you might lose track of time.
Frequently asked questions
Several credit cards come with free access to airport lounges, including American Express Platinum Card®, Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® and Chase Sapphire Reserve®.
Some credit cards offer free airport lounge network memberships. Other cards may offer one-time lounge passes or exclusive discounted lounge visit rates.
Typically, you can either show your credit card or your lounge membership card to access an airport lounge. Some lounge networks also offer a digital membership card through their mobile app. Most lounges also want to see a same-day boarding pass.
Check your cardholder agreement or contact the credit card issuer to determine if airport lounge benefits are included with your card.
Methodology: How we chose the best credit cards for lounge access
To make choosing the right card easier, we’ve looked at credit cards reviewed on ValuePenguin as well as cards on major issuer sites to compile a list of cards that offer the best airport lounge access. Our recommendations are based on the strength of the cards’ lounge networks, as well as the additional value you can earn with the cards — including the rewards value, cost of ownership and value of benefits such as travel and purchase protections and airline companion passes. Our choices are not influenced by our advertisers. Learn more on how we calculate rewards.
*To see rates & fees for American Express Platinum Card®, please click here.
*To see rates & fees for The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, please click here.
*To see rates & fees for Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, please click here.
For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.
For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits may be provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply
The information related to the American Express Platinum Card®, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve®, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®, Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, The New United Club℠ Card, Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card and The New United℠ Business Card has been independently collected by LendingTree and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card prior to publication. Terms apply.
The content above is not provided by any issuer. Any opinions expressed are those of LendingTree alone and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any issuer. The offers and/or promotions mentioned above may have changed, expired, or are no longer available. Check the issuer's website for more details.
