Airport lounges offer a peaceful retreat from crowded terminals, with complimentary food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and even showers. But gaining access usually requires elite airline status, a business-class ticket—or the right credit card.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best credit cards for airport lounge access in 2024, comparing their benefits, annual fees, and eligibility requirements. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, we’ll help you find the perfect card for stress-free layovers.
Why Get a Credit Card with Lounge Access?
Before diving into the rankings, let’s explore why lounge access is worth it:
✅ Escape Crowds – Relax in a quiet, comfortable space before your flight.
✅ Free Food & Drinks – Save money on overpriced airport meals.
✅ Premium Amenities – Many lounges offer showers, nap pods, and workspaces.
✅ Faster Wi-Fi – More reliable than public airport networks.
✅ Exclusive Perks – Some cards include spa credits or concierge services.
Now, let’s compare the top cards offering lounge access in 2024.
Best Credit Cards for Lounge Access – Ranked & Reviewed
1. The Platinum Card® from American Express
Annual Fee: $695
Best For: Luxury travelers who want the most comprehensive lounge access
Lounge Benefits:
- Centurion Lounges (exclusive to Amex Platinum & Centurion cardholders)
- Priority Pass™ Select (unlimited visits + 2 free guests)
- Delta Sky Club® access when flying Delta (starting 2025: 6 visits per year, unlimited with $75K annual spend)
- Lufthansa, Plaza Premium, & Escape Lounges
- Airspace & Virgin Clubhouse access (when flying select airlines)
Additional Perks:
- $200 annual airline fee credit
- $200 Uber Cash
- $189 CLEAR® Plus credit
- Global Entry/TSA PreCheck® fee credit
Why It’s #1:
No other card offers as many premium lounge options, making the Amex Platinum the king of airport lounges.
2. Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Annual Fee: $550
Best For: Travelers who want Priority Pass + restaurant credits
Lounge Benefits:
- Priority Pass™ Select (unlimited visits, but no free guests after 2023)
- Chase Sapphire Lounges (new lounges in major hubs like Hong Kong and Boston)
- The Club lounges (when booked via Chase Travel℠)
Additional Perks:
- $300 annual travel credit
- 3X points on travel & dining
- Global Entry/TSA PreCheck® credit
Why It’s Great:
A strong alternative to the Amex Platinum, especially if you prefer Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
3. Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Annual Fee: $395
Best For: Affordable luxury with premium lounge access
Lounge Benefits:
- Priority Pass™ Select (unlimited visits + 2 free guests)
- Capital One Lounges (currently in Dallas, Denver, and D.C., with more coming)
- Plaza Premium Lounge access
Additional Perks:
- $300 annual travel credit
- 10,000 bonus miles every account anniversary
- Global Entry/TSA PreCheck® credit
Why It’s a Top Pick:
One of the best-value premium cards, with lounge access nearly as good as the Amex Platinum for a lower fee.
4. Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
Annual Fee: $595
Best For: American Airlines loyalists
Lounge Benefits:
- Unlimited Admirals Club® access (for you + immediate family/2 guests)
- Priority Pass™ Select (but only 2 free visits per year)
Additional Perks:
- Free checked bag for you + 4 companions
- 10,000 Loyalty Points after $40K annual spend
Why It’s Worth It:
If you fly American Airlines frequently, unlimited Admirals Club access is a game-changer.
5. Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card
Annual Fee: $550
Best For: Hotel loyalists who also want lounge access
Lounge Benefits:
- Priority Pass™ Select (10 free visits per year, then $32 per guest)
- Unlimited Hilton Honors Diamond Status (includes executive lounge access at Hilton hotels)
Additional Perks:
- $400 Hilton resort credit
- Free weekend night reward annually
Why It’s Unique:
A great option if you stay at Hilton hotels often and want limited Priority Pass access.
Comparison Table: Best Lounge Access Credit Cards
| Card | Annual Fee | Priority Pass | Other Lounges | Guest Policy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amex Platinum | $695 | Unlimited + 2 guests | Centurion, Delta, Lufthansa | Varies by lounge |
| Chase Sapphire Reserve | $550 | Unlimited (no free guests) | Chase Sapphire Lounges | $27 per guest |
| Capital One Venture X | $395 | Unlimited + 2 guests | Capital One Lounges | Free for guests |
| Citi AAdvantage Executive | $595 | 2 free visits/year | Admirals Club® | Free for family |
| Hilton Aspire | $550 | 10 free visits/year | Hilton Executive Lounges | $32/guest after |
How to Choose the Right Lounge Access Card
When deciding which card is best for you, consider:
- How Often You Fly – Frequent travelers benefit most from unlimited access.
- Preferred Airlines – If you’re loyal to Delta or American, choose a card that aligns with them.
- Guest Policy – Some cards allow free guests, while others charge per visit.
- Additional Perks – Weigh travel credits, elite status, and other benefits.
Alternative Ways to Get Lounge Access
If you don’t want a premium credit card, consider:
- Day Passes (50–50–100 per visit at many lounges)
- Airline Status (e.g., United Club access with Premier 1K)
- Priority Pass Membership (standalone plans start at $429/year)
Final Verdict: Best Card for Lounge Access
- Best Overall: Amex Platinum (most comprehensive lounge network)
- Best Value: Capital One Venture X (great perks for $395/year)
- Best for American Airlines Flyers: Citi AAdvantage Executive
- Best for Chase Users: Chase Sapphire Reserve
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I get lounge access without a premium credit card?
Yes, through airline status, paid memberships, or one-time passes.
2. Which lounges are the best?
Centurion Lounges (Amex) and Capital One Lounges are among the highest-rated.
3. Do lounge access cards include free alcohol?
Most lounges offer complimentary beer, wine, and cocktails.
4. Are kids allowed in airport lounges?
Yes, policies vary, but many allow children under a certain age for free.
Conclusion
If you value comfort and convenience while traveling, a credit card with lounge access is a smart investment. The Amex Platinum remains the top choice for unlimited premium access, while the Capital One Venture X offers the best value.