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If you’re a frequent traveler, consider a premium credit card that offers complimentary airport lounge access. These cards offer a wide range of travel benefits, including lounge access.
Premium credit cards offer generous welcome bonus offers, travel purchase credits, free internet access, the ability to earn travel rewards, luxury perks and benefits, assistance when things go wrong, and travel and purchase protections.
Don’t buy a lounge membership or invest in day passes until you’ve reviewed our roundup of credit cards to consider for complimentary lounge access. These cards may also provide this perk to authorized users, which can mean discounted or complimentary lounge access for those traveling with you.
Here are our recommendations for the best lounge access cards and our breakdown of the potential value of a lounge access benefit.
Capital One Venture X Business CardInformation collected independently. Not reviewed by Capital One. — Best Business Card for Priority Pass and Capital One Lounges
How To Choose the Best Airport Lounge Access Credit Card
The easiest way to choose the best lounge access credit card for you is to consider what airport lounges you want access to.
For instance, if the only lounge at your local airport is an American Airlines Admirals Club and you regularly fly with American Airlines, then a card that offers access to AA Admirals Clubs is likely to be more useful to you than cards that don’t, even if those cards have access to a larger number of lounges.
If you have multiple lounges at your airport and aren’t committed to a specific lounge network, then a card that has access to the largest number of lounges might be better for you.
The 6 Best Personal Cards for Complimentary Lounge Access
Personal consumer credit cards are the go-to cards for complimentary lounge access, as they tend to have a more comprehensive selection than business credit cards do.
It’s challenging to compare credit cards on lounge access benefits alone, as a card with a high annual fee may offer other perks or rewards that more than offset that annual fee. Because everyone’s situations and preferences are unique, you have to do the research to see if a card is suitable for your particular circumstances and not just a perfect fit from a lounge access perspective.
80,000 pointsThe Platinum Card® from American ExpressEarn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Access to over 1,400airport lounges through the Amex Global Lounge Collection, including Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs (when flying same-day on Delta), Plaza Premium Lounges, Priority Pass lounges (upon enrollment), and more
75,000 milesCapital One Venture X Rewards Credit CardEarn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.
LIMITED TIME OFFER100,000 milesDelta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express CardEarn 100,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 4/2/2025.
Centurion Lounge and Escape Lounge access when your Delta flight is booked with your card
15 visits per calendar year to Delta Sky Clubs when traveling on a same-day Delta ticket (primary cardholder and authorized users); unlimited access if spending $75,000 in a calendar year on your card; bring up to 2 adult guests or immediate family for $50 per person*
4 one-time Delta Sky Club Guest Passes every year*
Amex Platinum Card (Best for Worldwide Lounge Access and Premium Benefits)
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.
The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
80,000 points
Up to $1,760
$695
See Pay Over Time APR
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent
Why We Like This Card
When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card® from American Express.
Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.
Pros & Cons
Pros
The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges,Priority Pass lounges (enrollment required), Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
$200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
$240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
With American Express Global Lounge Collection® you can enjoy access to over 1,400 airport lounges globally, including The Centurion® Lounge, Unlimited Delta Sky Club® Access when flying an eligible Delta flight, Escape Lounges, Lufthansa Lounges when flying Lufthansa Group, Plaza Premium, Priority Pass™ Select Lounges, & Additional Global Lounge Collection Partner Lounges subject to visit limitations. Lounges may have their own rules, like additional access rules and guest fees, and for Priority Pass Select, you need to enroll and there are unlimited airport lounge visits for Card Members. With Delta Sky Club Access, Card Members will receive 10 Visits to the Delta Sky Club to be used from February 1 until January 31 of the next calendar year and can unlock Unlimited Delta Sky Club Access by spending $75,000 in eligible purchases on their Card in a calendar year. To find a lounge, visit the membership section in the American Express® App or visit http://www.americanexpress.com/findalounge#/loungefinder.
$155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
$200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
$200 Uber Cash: Platinum Card® Members can ride or dine in style with $15 in Uber Cash each month, plus a bonus $20 in December after adding their Card to their Uber account. Use your Uber Cash on rides and orders in the U.S. when you select an Amex Card for your transaction.
$199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
$695 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.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.
The Capital One Venture X card is an excellent option for travelers looking for an all-in-one premium credit card.
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.
75,000 miles
$1,350
$395
19.99% - 29.24% (Variable)
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Excellent (740-840)
Why We Like This Card
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the premium Capital One travel rewards card on the block.
Points and miles fans will be surprised to see that the Capital One Venture X card packs quite the punch when it comes to bookings made through Capital One, all while offering the lowest annual fee among premium credit cards.
Depending on your travel goals and preferences, the Capital One Venture X card could very well end up being your go-to card in your wallet.
Pros & Cons
Pros
10x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
5x miles per $1 on flights and vacation rentals purchased through Capital One Travel
Does not offer bonus categories for flights or hotel purchases made directly with the airline or hotel group, the preferred booking method for those looking to earn elite status
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 complimentary access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge locations and the Partner Lounge Network
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®
The Capital One Venture X card is a standout option because it not only offers Priority Pass and Capital One Loungeaccess for you and your complimentary authorized-user cards, but it also earns 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 5x miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel, and 2x miles on all other purchases, allowing cardmembers to rack up miles quickly.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.
A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
60,000 points
$1,200
$550
21.49% - 28.49% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Excellent (740-850)
Why We Like This Card
If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is one of the best options out there.
The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access, with excellent point earning and redemption options. Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.
Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!
Pros & Cons
Pros
10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
10x points on Lyft purchases through March 31, 2025
10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
$300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $120 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Coverage, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve card is an excellent all-around premium travel rewards card. Beyond the airport lounge access it offers via Priority Pass and Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club, it gives you 10x points on car rentals, hotels, and dining booked through Chase Travel, 5x points on airfare booked through Chase Travel, and 3x points on all other travel and dining purchases.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
Perfect for frequent United flyers who want premium perks like United Club access and free baggage benefits.
Perfect for frequent United flyers who want premium perks like United Club access and free baggage benefits.
Earn 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
80,000 miles
$960
$525
20.99% - 27.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Excellent (740-850)
Why We Like This Card
The United Club℠ Infinite Card is a premium card designed for the most dedicated of United frequent flyers who are looking for a card that provides the opportunity to earn extra United MileagePlus miles and receive lounge access via a yearly United Club membership.
United frequent flyers will find that the United Club Infinite card provides an enhanced experience on their United flights thanks to the money saved on each flight and the conveniences it provides.
Pros & Cons
Pros
4x miles per $1 on United purchases
2x miles per $1 on travel and dining purchases
Complimentary United Club membership (up to $650 value per year)
United Club℠ membership - up to $650 value per year
Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $360 per roundtrip (terms apply) - and Premier Access® travel services
Earn up to 15,000 Premier qualifying points per calendar year (1 PQP for every $15 you spend on purchases)
Member FDIC
Financial Snapshot
APR: 20.99% - 27.99% Variable
Foreign Transaction Fees: None
If you’re a frequent United flyer, you should strongly consider adding the United Club Infinite card to your wallet. Those who hold it receive perks like complimentary United Club membership, free first and second checked bags, and complimentary Premier upgrades on United-operated award tickets (upon availability).
As if that weren’t enough, you also receive expanded award availability on United flights; a 10% discount on United Economy Saver awards within the continental U.S. and Canada; a credit for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS; complimentary IHG One Rewards Platinum Elite status; and the ability to earn additionally Premier Qualifying Points toward your next level of United status.
Delta Reserve Card (Best for Delta Sky Club, Centurion Lounge, and Escape Lounge)
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.
Delta loyalists will love the fast track to Delta elite status, lounge access, baggage benefits, and upgrade priority with the Delta Reserve card.
Earn 100,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 4/2/2025.
100,000 miles
Up to $1,200
$650
19.99%-28.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
Good to Excellent
Why We Like This Card
The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is a stellar option for frequent travelers who always fly with Delta thanks to its MQD Headstart towards status boost, lounge access, annual companion certificate, and many other great benefits.
Here is a full look at everything the Delta Reserve card can offer to you to help you decide whether the card deserves a place in your wallet.
Pros & Cons
Pros
3x SkyMiles per $1 on Delta purchases.
1x SkyMile per $1 on all other eligible purchases.
Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights.
Earn 100,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 4/2/2025.
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 First Class, Delta Comfort+®, or Main Cabin 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.
$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 other Medallion Members within the same Medallion tier and fare class grouping while flying Delta.
Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
No Foreign Transaction Fees.
$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.
Delta Air Lines loyalists who have the Delta Reserve card can access 3 lounge networks: Centurion Lounge and Escape Lounges — The Centurion Studio Partner when their Delta flights are booked with their card, and Delta Sky Club when traveling on a same-day Delta ticket.
Hot Tip:
Effective February 1, 2025, Delta Reserve cardmembers receive 15 visits per year to Delta Sky Clubs. To earn an unlimited number of visits each year, the total eligible purchases on the card must equal $75,000 or more in a calendar year.
Cardholders also receive elevated earnings on Delta purchases, a free checked bag, priority boarding on Delta flights for themselves and up to 8 travel companions, a 20% statement credit on select inflight purchases, and priority upgrades. They also receive anannual companion certificate valid for a First Class, Delta Comfort+, or Main Cabin round-trip flight to select destinations each year after renewal of the card. The Companion Certificate requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of between $22 and $250 (for itineraries with up to 4 flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply.
In addition, if you use your card to pay your Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application or renewal fee, you receive a statement credit of up to $120.
Bottom Line:
Although lounge access may be the primary reason you’re considering a credit card, you should review the other perks, benefits, credits, and rewards that come with the card to see if it fits your lifestyle overall.
The 3 Best Business Cards for Complimentary Lounge Access
There are significantly fewer business cards that offer airport lounge access, but there are still a few compelling ones. For any business owner looking for a great card that also provides lounge access, here are our top picks:
ELEVATED OFFER150,000 pointsThe Business Platinum Card® from American ExpressEarn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
Access to over 1,400airport lounges through the Amex Global Lounge Collection, including Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs (when flying same-day Delta), Plaza Premium Lounges, Priority Pass lounges (upon enrollment), and more
LIMITED TIME OFFER110,000 milesDelta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express CardEarn 110,000 Bonus Miles after spending $12,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 4/2/25.
Centurion Lounge and Escape Lounge access when your Delta flight is booked with your card
15 visits each year to Delta Sky Clubs when traveling on a same-day Delta ticket (primary cardholder and authorized users); bring up to 2 adult guests or immediate family for $50 per person
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!
This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!
Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
150,000 points
Up to $3,300
$695
18.49% - 27.49% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
When you factor in the large number of perks that the card offers like the best airport lounge access at over 1,400 lounges, along with tons of annual credits, it’s easy to see why this card can is a top option for frequent traveling business owners.
Pros & Cons
Pros
5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on Flights and Prepaid Hotels booked through Amex Travel
Access to over 1,400 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection (as of 10/2024). Access is limited to eligible Card Members.
Get 50% more Membership Rewards points (1.5 points per $1) on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (on up to $2 million per calendar year)
Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the 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 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 10/2024. Access is limited to eligible Card Members.
Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card®.
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.
NEW! 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.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards Points® on Flights, and Prepaid Hotels Booked through AmexTravel.com
1X points on other eligible purchases
Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
$199 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $199 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card®.
The Amex Business Platinum card is for you if you’re a business owner looking for a rewards card loaded with great benefits. This is our top business card for getting into airport lounges worldwide.
It offers the same access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide as the Amex Platinum card but also includes annual credits (upon enrollment) for airline incidentals, CLEAR Plus, Dell, Indeed, Adobe, Hilton, and wireless phone services. It also comes with complimentary hotel elite status with Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors (upon enrollment), a 35% airline bonus when using Pay With Points (up to 1 million bonus points per calendar year), and more.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
The Capital One Venture X Business card offers at least 2x miles on all purchases, and comes packed with premium perks.
The Capital One Venture X Business card offers at least 2x miles on all purchases, and comes packed with premium perks.
Earn 150,000 bonus miles once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months from account opening
150,000 miles
$2,700
$395
All charges made on this account are due and payable in full when you receive your periodic statement. The minimum payment due is the New Balance as indicated on your statement.
Why We Like This Card
The information regarding the Capital One Venture X Business card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.
The Capital One Venture X Business card is a great all-around premium rewards card that helps you rack up miles on all of your business expenses.
From 2x miles per dollar on all purchases, airport lounge access, an annual travel credit, complimentary employee cards, and more, there is plenty to love about the Capital One Venture X Business card.
Pros & Cons
Pros
10x miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
5x miles per dollar on flights and vacation rentals purchased through Capital One Travel
2x miles per dollar on all other purchases
Cons
$395 annual fee
10x and 5x bonus categories are limited to Capital One Travel bookings
Earn 150,000 bonus miles once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months from account opening
Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, everywhere—with no limits or category restrictions
Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get the best prices on thousands of options
With no preset spending limit, enjoy big purchasing power that adapts so you can spend more and earn more rewards
Empower your teams to make business purchases while earning rewards on their transactions, with free employee and virtual cards. Plus, automatically sync your transaction data with your accounting software and pay your vendors with ease
Redeem your miles on flights, hotels and more. Plus, transfer your miles to any of the 15+ travel loyalty programs Every year, you’ll get 10,000 bonus miles after your account anniversary date. Plus, receive an annual $300 credit for bookings through Capital One Travel
Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®. Enjoy complimentary access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge locations and membership to Priority Pass through the Partner Lounge Network
Enjoy a $100 experience credit and other premium benefits with every hotel and vacation rental booked from the Premier Collection
This is a pay-in-full card, so your balance is due in full every month
Financial Snapshot
APR: All charges made on this account are due and payable in full when you receive your periodic statement. The minimum payment due is the New Balance as indicated on your statement.
With a $300 annual Capital One Travel credit and, usually, a generous welcome offer, the Capital One Venture X Business card can provide good value for a business owner.
The card simplifies earning rewards, with at least 2x miles for every purchase your business makes and elevated earnings on travel purchased via Capital One Travel.
You must enroll separately and in advance for Priority Pass lounge and lounge-alternative access.
The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the ins and outs of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.
Receive priority boarding, complimentary access to Delta Sky Club and Centurion Lounges, concierge support, and an annual companion certificate.
Receive priority boarding, complimentary access to Delta Sky Club and Centurion Lounges, concierge support, and an annual companion certificate.
Earn 110,000 Bonus Miles after spending $12,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 4/2/25.
110,000 miles
Up to $1,320
$650
19.99% - 28.99% Variable
Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.
While the annual fee may be steep, the card comes loaded with perks and benefits that all frequent Delta flyers are sure to love. Let’s take a look at what makes the card unique, and why it may be a great fit for your wallet.
Pros & Cons
Pros
3x miles per dollar on Delta purchases
1.5x miles per dollar on eligible transit, U.S. shipping and office supply stores, plus all eligible purchases after you spend $150,000 in a year
Save 15% On Award Travel With TakeOff 15. Not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
Cons
High annual fee
Does not earn many miles for purchases outside of Delta spend
Limited Time Offer: Earn 110,000 Bonus Miles after spending $12,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Offer Ends 4/2/25.
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve 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.
Receive a Companion Certificate on a First Class, Delta Comfort+®, or Main Cabin 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.
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 family 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.
For business owners who are Delta loyalists, the Delta Reserve Business card is a must-have. In addition to 15 visits per year to Delta Sky Club and unlimited Amex Centurion Lounge access when flying the same day on Delta (on trips booked with the card), you also receive 15% off Delta award tickets, an annual companion certificate, complimentary upgrades (if available), complimentary checked bags, and more.
If cardmembers have $75,000 or more in eligible purchases in a calendar year, they get unlimited visits to Delta Sky Club for the year.
Bottom Line:
There aren’t many business credit cards offering complimentary lounge access, so you may want to look for lounge access benefits on a personal consumer credit card, as these tend to have more lounge benefits.
The 4 Best Cards With Lounge Access for Authorized Users
Complimentary lounge access for you and your family or other travel companions is a great perk when you’re traveling.
However, there are times when others traveling without you would greatly benefit from complimentary lounge access. Adding an authorized user can give them the same travel benefits with the credit card, including complimentary lounge access.
These are some of the cards that grant lounge access for authorized users, along with a breakdown of the associated fees.
Adding an authorized user can be a cost-effective way to secure lounge access and other card benefits. But remember that there could be Chase 5/24 rule implications for the authorized users. You’re also responsible for all charges made to the credit card, including those made by an authorized user.
The Real Value of Airport Lounge Access
You don’t need a premium credit card to enjoy access to airport lounges, but without one you need to secure a potentially pricey lounge membership or a day pass. And remember, not all lounges can be accessed with a card, such as PS LAX.
This breakdown of membership costs illustrates the approximate value of the complimentary lounge access offered by premium cards.
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Lounge Network or Service
Single 1-Year Membership Cost
Cost To Add a Spouse, Partner, or Guest to Membership
2 guests are allowed with United Club membership; spouses, partners, and family members cannot be added to membership
$59
If you’re a frequent traveler who purchases several single-lounge access passes per year or an annual lounge membership, you may fare better by selecting a premium credit card that includes complimentary lounge access.
The added value of credit card welcome bonus offers, additional travel perks, rewards, credits for travel purchases, and travel and purchase protections can make securing a premium travel credit card a wise financial decision.
Bottom Line:
While premium credit cards that include complimentary airport lounge access may come with high annual fees, these cards provide excellent value beyond what you’d receive with an annual lounge membership.
How To Get Airport Lounge Access
Usually, airport lounge access is obtained by purchasing an annual membership or a day pass during each visit.
But the easiest way to receive airport lounge access is by holding a credit card that gives you complimentary access as a benefit of holding the card. This way, as long as your account remains open, you can access the eligible lounges connected to your card each time you travel.
Airport Lounge Types
For the most part, there are 4 types of airport lounges: standard airline lounges, business and first class lounges, credit card lounges, and lounge networks.
Standard airline lounges are tied to the specific airline you are flying with. To access these lounges, you need to hold an eligible airline co-branded card that includes lounge access and you must be flying with that airline (or one of its partners) on the same day. Examples of these lounges include American Admirals Clubs, Delta Sky Clubs, and United Clubs.
Business and first class lounges, while still tied to specific airlines, are only accessible by passengers flying business class or first class with the airline or its partners, regardless of what card you hold. Examples include American Airlines Flagship lounges and United Polaris lounges.
Credit card lounges are airport lounges offered directly by credit card issuers to entice customers to apply for their most premium credit card offerings. This includes Amex Centurion Lounges, which are accessible to those with the Amex Platinum card or Amex Business Platinum card; Capital One Lounges, which are accessible to those with the Capital One Venture X card; and Chase Sapphire Lounges, which are accessible to those with the Chase Sapphire Reserve card.
Lastly, lounge networks like Priority Pass and Plaza Premium offer access to a large number of lounges under their umbrella, and there are many different credit cards that you might be able to use to access these lounges.
Are Credit Cards for Lounge Access Worth It?
If you travel often enough to take advantage of airport lounges at least a handful of times per year, and if the card you hold allows you to bring traveling companions into the lounge as well, then yes, getting a card with airport lounge access could be worth it.
Additionally, airport lounge access isn’t the only benefit that these cards offer. You may receive perks such as annual statement credits, elite status or the ability to fast-track your elite status, and travel protections.
Should I Have Multiple Cards With Lounge Access?
That depends on your travel habits. If both credit cards significantly overlap in the lounges that they provide access to, then there would be little benefit in holding both cards if the motive for doing so is lounge access.
On the other hand, if you primarily fly with United and regularly visit United Clubs, but also want to have access to Priority Pass lounges, Amex Centurion lounges, etc., then it could be useful to hold both the United Club Infinite card and the Amex Platinum card.
How Long Can I Stay in an Airport Lounge?
Depending on the lounge and how crowded it gets, there could be restrictions that limit you from entering the lounge until 3 hours before your flight departs.
Once you are in the airport lounge, though, there usually is no limit to how long you can stay. For instance, if you enter a lounge 3 hours before your scheduled departure time and then your flight is delayed by 2 hours, you’ll still be allowed to remain in the lounge for that additional time if you’d like.
How Many Times Can You Access an Airport Lounge With a Credit Card?
While this can change depending on the credit card and the lounge that you’re visiting, for most airport lounge credit cards, there is no limit to the number of times you can access airport lounges with your credit card. This is also the case regardless of how frequently you fly or how many layovers you have in a day.
Notably, Delta and American Express have introduced access limitations for Amex Platinum card and Delta Reserve cardholders entering Delta Sky Clubs. These limitations will go into effect in 2025.
What Is Included for Free With Airport Lounge Access?
The exact offerings of an airport lounge can vary significantly from lounge to lounge, but for the most part, you can expect free food and drinks including alcohol, comfortable seats to relax in before your flight, outlets to charge your devices, restrooms, and dedicated Wi-Fi.
More premium lounges might also offer made-to-order food, business centers, fitness areas, spa services, showers, and more.
Final Thoughts
Lounge access is one of the most valuable perks you can get in travel, so securing this benefit with a credit card makes sense for serious travelers. Plus, if you’re spending money on lounge access membership elsewhere, a premium credit card that includes this perk is an easy way to cut down on costs.
And while lounge access may be important, it’s just one of many valuable benefits available with a premium travel card. You should consider the whole package of benefits that come with each card.
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For the trip delay insurance benefit of The Platinum Card® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
For the cell phone protection benefit of The Platinum Card® from American Express, eligibility and benefit level varies by card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
For the purchase protection benefit of The Platinum Card® from American Express,, eligibility and benefit level varies by Card. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.
Upon enrollment, accessible through the Capital One website or mobile app, eligible cardholders will remain at that status level through the duration of the offer. Please note, enrolling through the normal Hertz Gold Plus Rewards enrollment process (e.g. at Hertz.com) will not automatically detect a cardholder as being eligible for the program and cardholders will not be automatically upgraded to the applicable status tier. Additional terms apply.
