Best Credit Cards With Airport Lounge Access in 2026: Relax & Earn Rewards
Winner
Winner
American Express Platinum Card®
The American Express Platinum Card® is your ticket into the Global Lounge Collection® for eligible cardmembers: more than 1,550 airport lounges worldwide, the most options offered by a travel rewards card. It includes complimentary access to Centurion® Lounges, Delta Sky Club® when flying eligible Delta flights (subject to visit limitations) and more.
Key takeaways
- One of the key benefits of some premium travel credit cards is airport lounge access, where you can relax and enjoy complimentary perks (like food and Wi-Fi) while you await your departure.
- The American Express Platinum Card® has the most extensive airport lounge collection.
- Read terms and conditions carefully, as some lounge programs require enrollment, may limit the number of complimentary visits and may have differing policies on guests.
- Best card for lounge access: American Express Platinum Card®
- Best for Priority Pass™ lounge access: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
- Best business: The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
- Best business runner-up: Capital One Venture X Business
- Best international lounge access: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
- Best credit card for Admirals Club lounge access: Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
- Best for Delta lounge access: Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
- Best for United lounge access: The New United Club℠ Card
- Best hotel: Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card
Compare the best credit cards for lounge access
| Credit Cards | Our Ratings | Annual Fee | Rewards Rate | Welcome Offer | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
American Express Platinum Card®*
|
(Winner) Best card for lounge access
|
$895 | 5X points
| As high as 175,000 points
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.
| |
Chase Sapphire Reserve®*
|
Priority Pass™
|
$795 | 1X - 8X points
| 125,000 points
Earn 125,000 bonus points after you spend $6,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
| |
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express*
|
Best business
|
$895 | 1X - 5X points
| 200,000 points
Elevated Welcome Offer: Earn 200,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Business Platinum Card® within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
| |
Capital One Venture X Business*
|
Business runner-up
|
$395 | 2X - 10X Miles
| 150,000 miles
Earn 150,000 Miles once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months from account opening
| |
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card*
|
International lounge access
|
$395 | 2X - 10X miles
| 75,000 miles
Earn 75,000 Miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
| |
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®*
|
Admirals Club
|
$595 | 1X point
Earn 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases
| 70,000 miles
Earn 70,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after $7,000 in purchases in the first 3 months of account opening.
| |
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card*
|
Delta Sky Club®
|
$650 | 1X - 3X miles
| 100,000 miles
Earn 100,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $6,000 in purchases with your new Card, and an additional 25,000 bonus miles after you make an additional $3,000 in purchases on the Card, both within your first 6 months. Ends 04/01/2026.
| |
The New United Club℠ Card*
|
United Club
|
$695 | 1X - 4X miles
| 90,000 miles
Earn 90,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
| |
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card*
|
Hotel card
|
$650 | 2X - 21X points
| 100,000 points
Earn 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
|
Methodology: How we chose the best credit cards for airport lounge access
We take a comprehensive, data-driven approach to identify the best credit cards for airport lounge access. We use an objective rating and ranking system that evaluates over 200 credit cards from more than 50 issuers. All recommendations are made by LendingTree’s editorial team, completely independent of affiliate partnerships or compensation. Every card is selected based on its merit and ability to help people achieve their financial goals. We use the following criteria to make our picks:
We calculate the value of rewards and perks for the average cardholder using Bureau of Labor Statistics data and an annual spend of $20,000, minus the annual fee. This value includes the card’s sign-up bonus, annual bonus (including free night certificates) and travel perks like lounge access and travel credits. We look at the average rewards earned over two years to balance out a card’s ongoing value with its first-year value.
We consider how easy the rewards are to use, looking at factors like expiration dates, minimum thresholds to redeem, blackout dates and the availability of flexible redemption options like travel statement credits and cash back.
We also compare a card’s benefits, such as purchase protections, travel protections and elite status benefits against benefits from other cards.
Note that our ratings are a starting point for comparing and choosing the best travel credit card for airport lounge access. However, your needs may be different from the average cardholder. You should consider the amount you’re likely to spend in a card’s bonus categories and which benefits you value to choose the best card for you.
Best card for lounge access
American Express Platinum Card®*
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 1,550 airport lounges worldwide for eligible cardmembers, including Centurion® and Delta Sky Club® lounges when flying eligible Delta flights (subject to visit limitations)
- Generous rewards rate on travel
- Access to more than 1,550 lounges worldwide for eligible cardmembers
- Rewards transfer to 15+ travel loyalty programs
- $2,000-plus worth of credits
- Concierge service
- High $895 annual fee
- Limited entry in some Priority PassTM
locations - More limited acceptance of American Express cards, especially internationally
The American Express Platinum Card® might be the best choice if you’re looking for access to nearly every lounge network, or if your top priority is international lounge access. Among the complimentary memberships you can get through this card are the American Express Global Lounge Collection® for eligible cardmembers (which includes Priority Pass™ Select membership*), Amex’s own Centurion® lounges (which the card grants you exclusive access to) and Delta Sky Clubs® (which you can enter into before or during Delta flights and is subject to visit limitations). The card also comes with a laundry list of credits, benefits and protections, like an airline fee credit for up to $200* and upgraded hotel status with Hilton* and Marriott*.
- Lounge network(s): American Express Global Lounge Collection® for eligible cardmembers, Centurion® Lounges, Delta Sky Club® (subject to visit limitations), Escape Lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, Priority Pass™ Lounges*, select Lufthansa Lounges
- Number of lounges: Over 1,200 Priority Pass™ airport lounges worldwide, 40-plus Centurion® and Escape Lounges, 50-plus Delta Sky Club® (subject to visit limitations)
- Authorized user access: You can add additional card members for a fee. Additional card members have the same lounge access as the primary cardholder.
- Guest policy: Guest policies vary depending on the specific lounge network. Some like Priority Pass™ allow up to two guests per visit, whereas you must spend $75,000 annually to earn free Centurion® Lounge access for two guests.
- 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.
Best for Priority Pass™ lounge access
Chase Sapphire Reserve®*
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.More than 1,300 Priority Pass™ lounges and Chase Sapphire lounges
- Generous earning rate on travel
- Access to Priority Pass™ lounges and Chase Sapphire airport lounges (after enrollment)
- Transfer points to 10+ loyalty programs
- Annual $300 travel credit
- High $795 annual fee
- Authorized user fee
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers entry into Priority Pass™ lounges worldwide and Chase Sapphire lounges along with the option to bring two guests. There are more than 1,300 Priority Pass™ lounge locations and eight Chase Sapphire lounges available, with plans to open more. This card also earns flexible Chase Ultimate Rewards® points, which transfer to airline and hotel programs like British Airways, JetBlue, Southwest Rapid Rewards and Marriott Bonvoy® at a 1:1 ratio.
Cardholders also get perks like a $300 annual travel credit and a fee credit for Global Entry, NEXUS or TSA PreCheck® membership.
- Lounge network: Priority Pass™ Select and Chase Sapphire lounges
- 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; $75 authorized user fee required
- Guest policy: Primary cardholders and authorized users are allowed a maximum of two guests per visit (passes for additional guests at Priority Pass™ lounges vary by lounge)
- 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
→ See the best credit cards for Priority Pass™.
Best business
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express*
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 1,550 airport lounges worldwide, including Centurion® and Delta Sky Club® lounges (10 visits per year)
- Earn elevated rewards on travel and business expenses
- Access to more than 1,550 lounges worldwide
- Rewards transfer to 15+ loyalty programs
- Over $3,000 worth of business and travel credits (after meeting qualifying spend thresholds; terms apply)
- Concierge service
- High $895 annual fee
- Limited entry in some Priority Pass™ locations
- More limited acceptance of American Express cards, especially internationally
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express offers access to many lounge networks — including Priority Pass™ (enrollment required) and Amex Centurion® lounges, as well as Delta Sky Clubs® when you fly with that airline. And while a $895 annual fee applies, business owners with this card get valuable business credits, including up to $1,150 in credits on Dell purchases (enrollment required).
- Lounge network(s): American Express Global Lounge Collection®, Centurion® Lounges, Delta Sky Club® (10 visits per year), Escape Lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, Priority Pass™ Lounges (enrollment required), Lufthansa Lounges
- Number of lounges: Over 1,550 Priority Pass™ airport lounges worldwide, around 40 Centurion® and Escape Lounges, 50-plus Delta Sky Clubs®
- 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
- Elevated Welcome Offer: Earn 200,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Business Platinum Card® within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
- The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,550 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card company on the market as of 07/2025.
- See how you can unlock over $3,500 in business and travel value annually after meeting qualifying spend thresholds on the Business Platinum Card. Terms apply.
- 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® Plus 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.
- Enhanced! 2X points on purchases at U.S. construction material & hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on each eligible purchase of $5,000 or more, up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
- 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com
- 1X points on other eligible purchases
- $895 Annual Fee.
- Terms Apply.
Best business runner-up
Capital One Venture X Business*
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.- Earn 2X miles on every purchase
- Access to 1,300+ airport lounges, including Capital One Lounge and Capital One Landing locations and the Partner Lounge Network
- Miles transfer to 20+ partners
- Annual travel credit and yearly miles bonus
- Annual fee of $395 is lower than some other premium cards
- Free employee cards
- Balance must always be paid off in full every month
- Not as many fee credits and perks as some other top-tier travel cards
The Capital One Venture X Business offers generous airport lounge access but has a lower annual fee than similar travel cards and free cards for authorized users. You won’t get as long a list of fee credits and perks, but there are big advantages, including bonus miles and a $300 annual credit for travel bookings through Capital One. Just be mindful that this is not a revolving credit card – you must pay the balance in full each month.
- Lounge network(s): Must enroll for access to the Partner Lounge Network, Capital One Lounge and Capital One Landing and a Priority Pass™ membership.
- Number of lounges: More than 1,300+ lounges
- Authorized user access: See terms
- Guest policy: See terms
- When can you access lounges? See terms
- 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 10X miles on hotels and rental cars and 5X miles on flights and vacation rentals booked through Capital One Business Travel
- 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 made through Capital One Business Travel
- Receive up to a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®. Enjoy access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide, including Capital One Lounge and Landing locations and participating Priority Pass™ lounges, after enrollment
- 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
- 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
→ See the best business credit cards for travel.
Best international lounge access
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card*
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 1,300 international lounges
- Earn miles at a high rate on every purchase
- Access to Capital One and Priority Pass™ lounges
- Miles transfer to 20+ loyalty programs
- $300 annual travel credit for bookings through Capital One and 10,000 mile anniversary bonus
- Free cards for authorized users
- $395 annual fee
- No major U.S. airline transfer partners
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is our top pick for international lounge access after American Express Platinum Card®. You get Priority Pass™ Select membership, which gives you visiting privileges to more than 1,300 lounges worldwide. You can also enter a handful of Capital One airport lounges.
This card also has a $395 annual fee, which is lower than many other travel cards with luxury perks. You can also add authorized users for free, and they’ll get their own lounge memberships at no additional cost.
- Lounge network: Priority Pass™ Select and Capital One
- Number of lounges: Over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide
- Authorized user access: See terms
- Guest policy: See terms
- When can you access lounges? See terms
- 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
Best credit card for Admirals Club lounge access
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®*
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 around 100 Admirals Club and partner lounges worldwide
- Generous airline rewards program
- Admirals Club membership
- Generous guest policy for lounges
- Travel benefits include priority check-in and security and boarding privileges
- High $595 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. Although there’s a $595 annual fee, Admirals Club membership is actually worth up to $850 if you choose to pay for it outright. Plus, getting the card instead also gives you several airline-related perks, including priority check-in, first checked bag free on domestic American Airlines itineraries, security and boarding privileges and a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® fee credit.
- Lounge network(s): Admirals Club and partner lounges
- Number of lounges: Around 100 lounges worldwide
- Authorized user access: Add authorized users for a fee. Authorized users have access to domestic and international Admirals Club locations, but not full membership privileges.
- Guest policy: Immediate family and 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
→ See the best American Airlines credit cards.
Best for Delta lounge access
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card*
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 Sky Club® membership, plus access to Centurion® lounges
- Access to Delta Sky Club® and Centurion® lounges
- Four one-time guest passes per year
- Annual companion certificate*
- Comes with frequent flyer perks
- High $650 annual fee
- Limited international lounge options
- Sky Club® access limited to 15 visits per year
The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is the only co-branded personal Delta credit card that offers Delta Sky Club® membership, as well as access to Amex’s exclusive Centurion Lounge® network, when you pay for your Delta flight with your card.
And although this card has a $650 annual fee, Delta Sky Club® membership costs $695 or more. You’ll also get a round-trip companion certificate every year, a first checked bag free on Delta flights and more.
Just know that you’ll be limited to 15 Sky Club® visits per year. However, if you spend at least $75,000 on the card in a year, you’ll get unlimited access the following year.
- Lounge network(s): Delta Sky Club®, Centurion®
- Number of lounges: 50+ Delta Sky Club® Lounges, around 40 Centurion® and Escape Lounges when flying Delta
- Authorized user access: Authorized users can be added to the card for a fee and receive full lounge access
- Guest policy: Cardmembers receive four one-time guest passes each year to bring along friends and family. Cardmembers may bring up to two guests for a $50 fee per guest after that, or $25 for Delta Grab and Go locations.
- When can you access lounges? Lounge access is for same-day travel on Delta flights
- Earn 100,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $6,000 or more in purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership and an additional 25,000 bonus miles after you make an additional $3,000 in purchases on the Card within your first 6 months, starting from the date that your account is opened. Offer Ends 04/01/2026.
- 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 round-trip flight to select destinations each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Certificate requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of between $22 and $250 (for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. Delta Basic experiences are not eligible for this benefit.
- $240 Resy Credit: When you use your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card for eligible purchases with U.S. Resy restaurants, you can earn up to $20 each month in statement credits. Enrollment required.
- $120 Rideshare Credit: Earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month after you use your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card to pay for U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers. Enrollment required.
- Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
- With your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, receive upgrade priority over others with the same Medallion tier, product and fare experience purchased, and Million Miler milestone when you fly with Delta.
- Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
- $650 Annual Fee.
- Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
- Terms Apply.
→ See the best Delta credit cards.
Best for United lounge access
The New United Club℠ Card*
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 over 45 United lounges, five United Polaris lounges and partner lounges
- United Club membership
- United airline perks
- Hotel and car rental elite status
- MileagePlus program benefits
- High $695 annual fee
- Limited lounge options worldwide
United fans will love 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, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS fee credit. The annual fee on this card is $695, whereas paying for United Club membership costs a minimum of $750.
- Lounge network(s): United Club
- Number of lounges: Over 45 United Club lounges, six United Polaris lounges and partner 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 is 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
→ See the best United credit cards.
Best hotel
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card*
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.1,200-plus Priority Pass™ lounges (enrollment required) and experiences
- Generous rewards on Marriott stays
- Up to $300 dining credit (up to $25 monthly)
- Priority Pass™ Select membership (enrollment required)
- Marriott Bonvoy® Platinum Elite status
- High $650 annual fee
- Earns rewards specific to Marriott
The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card is a luxury hotel credit card that has some of the benefits you’ll find with airline credit cards and flexible travel credit cards. For example, this card comes with automatic Marriott Bonvoy® Platinum Elite status, up to a $300 dining credit each year (up to $25 monthly), a fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® membership and Priority Pass™ Select airport lounge membership*.
The $650 annual fee can be worth it for Marriott enthusiasts who can benefit from on-property perks and other elite benefits.
- Lounge network(s): Priority Pass™ Select*
- Number of lounges: 1,200-plus worldwide
- Authorized user access: Authorized users don’t have their own lounge access
- Guest policy: Up to two guests at no charge
- When can you access lounges? Lounge access is for same-day travel only
- Earn 100,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
- Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy.
- Earn 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines.
- Earn 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
- Earn up to 21X Marriott Bonvoy® points for every $1 spent on eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. Earn 6X points with the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. Earn up to 10X points from Marriott Bonvoy for being a Marriott Bonvoy member. Earn up to 5X points from Marriott Bonvoy with the 50% Bonus Points on Stays, a benefit available with your complimentary Platinum Elite status.
- $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card at restaurants worldwide.
- A Marriott Bonvoy® Platinum Elite member will earn 50% more points on eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy for each U.S. dollar or the currency equivalent that is incurred and paid for by the member.
- Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®, such as Le Metropolitan, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel in Paris. Certain hotels have resort fees.
- Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Brilliant Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
- $100 Marriott Bonvoy® Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton® or St. Regis® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
- Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($120) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
- Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express.
- With your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, you can enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, with an unlimited number of visits to over 1,200 airport lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
- Trip Cancelled or Interrupted? If you purchase a round-trip entirely with your Eligible Card and a covered reason cancels or interrupts your trip, we may be able to help. Terms, conditions and limitations apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
- $650 Annual Fee.
- Apply with confidence. Know if you're approved for a Card with no impact to your credit score. If you're approved and you choose to accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.
- Terms Apply.
→ See the best hotel credit cards.
Is a credit card with airport lounge access worth it?
Getting a credit card with airport lounge access is worth the cost if you often travel to destinations with lounges within your network. Airport lounge benefits can include:
- Complimentary food and beverages (including alcohol)
- Wi-Fi access
- Comfortable, quiet spaces to work or relax
- Charging stations and outlets
- Credits to airport restaurants
- Shower facilities
- Quiet rooms
- Newspapers and magazines
- Guest privileges
- Business centers
- Wellness services
Keep in mind that airport lounge amenities vary widely — some lounges will feature elaborate food spreads with a luxury atmosphere, while others will only have a small selection of snacks and drinks.
You should also be aware that lounge access is only valuable if you plan to take advantage of the perks that come with it. If you don’t travel much, or just won’t spend much time in an airport lounge, the expense of an airport lounge card might not be worth it.
Other ways to get free lounge access
There are additional ways to get free airport lounge access beyond credit cards:
-
Elite status
Some airlines allow you to access lounges if you’ve achieved a higher status in their frequent flyer program. However, this isn’t the case with every program, so make sure to check before you count on it.
-
Fly in first class
In some cases, booking a first-class flight can earn you free entry into an airport lounge on the day of your flight. This is especially true for high-cost international flights in a premium cabin.
-
Military affiliation
Some airport lounge networks extend free access to uniformed military members and their families. This includes Admirals Club and United Club.
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?
- 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, Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card
The Centurion® Lounge network is home to around 40 world-class airport lounges worldwide, including 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 $329/year, Prestige $469/year
- Number of lounge locations: 1,700-plus worldwide
- Best card for access: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Priority Pass™ is among the most popular airport lounges because of its vast number of lounges available worldwide. The network is home to over 1,700 lounges worldwide that can feature amenities like Wi-Fi and refreshments. Some Priority Pass™ lounges offer perks like spa treatments and sleeping rooms, and there are even restaurant locations available through the program.
- Membership fee: $700 to $1,650
- Number of lounge locations: Nearly 50 lounges, plus access to more than 50 partner lounges
- Best cards for access: Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
Admirals Club is American Airlines’ airport lounge network. This network has almost 50 lounges throughout the world, and members can also access over 50 partner lounges. Admirals Club lounges feature snacks, made-to-order food, beverages, business centers, shower suites and personal travel assistance.
- Membership fee: $750
- Number of lounge locations: 45-plus 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. The network includes more than 45 lounges worldwide and six United Polaris lounges — although Polaris lounges typically have stricter entry requirements. Members also have access to select Star Alliance partner lounges. Lounges typically feature standard amenities like free snacks and beverages, comfortable seating and Wi-Fi.
- Membership fee: $695 to $1,495
- Number of lounge locations: 50-plus lounges worldwide
- Best cards for access: Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business 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.
Other card issuer lounges
- Membership fee: See Capital One site for details.
- Number of lounge locations: Six with one in development
- Best cards for access: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card and Capital One Venture X Business
There are a handful of Capital One-branded airport lounges for Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card and Capital One Venture X Business cardholders. Visitors can enjoy chef-inspired food, relaxation and fitness rooms, shower suites and workspaces and regional craft cocktails.
Lounges are located in Dallas-Fort Worth, Denver, Washington, D.C., Las Vegas and New York’s JFK airport. One more at LaGuardia airport in New York City – is under construction.
- Membership fee: Free only for Chase Sapphire Reserve®, J.P. Morgan Reserve Card and The Ritz-Carlton™ Credit Card primary card members and authorized users; up to two guests per visit are free, and additional guests are $27. (The Ritz-Carlton™ Credit Card card members may bring unlimited guests at no charge.)
- Number of lounge locations: Five plus one being renovated and two coming soon
- Best cards for access: Chase Sapphire Reserve®, J.P. Morgan Reserve Card and The Ritz-Carlton™ Credit Card
Chase offers its premium cardholders Priority Pass membership, as well as access to its own Chase Sapphire Lounges. There are 11 locations in operation, including Dallas’s DFW, New York’s JFK and LaGuardia, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Phoenix, San Diego and Hong Kong. Amenities vary by location but may include: food and beverage, signature cocktails, comfortable seating or working or relaxing and wellness offerings.
How to buy airport lounge access
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 $1,650 for a household membership.
Other lounge networks don’t allow walk-ins to buy guest passes. For example, American Express Centurion® lounge access is limited to certain cardholders and their guests.
How to pick the best lounge access credit card
The following factors can help you find the right credit card with lounge access for your needs.
- Look at your home airport lounge options.
Your regular departure airport is where you have the opportunity to use an airport lounge the most, so consider which airports you fly out of most often and which lounges are located there. - Know which airlines you fly with.
If you frequently fly with one major airline, consider its membership. If you fly with multiple airlines throughout the year, however, you may be better off with a card that offers a broad membership, like Priority Pass™. - Figure out where you travel most.
Figure out which destinations you frequently visit or have layovers in and the type of airport lounges they have. - Know the type of rewards you want to earn.
Decide if you want to earn airline miles with a specific program or flexible travel rewards that can be redeemed in more than one way. - Consider frequent flyer benefits.
Decide if you want a general travel credit card or a co-branded airline credit card that offers flight-specific benefits like free checked bags and priority boarding. - Decide on the annual fee you’re comfortable with.
Finally, compare cards based on their annual fees, and decide what you’re comfortable paying. While a high annual fee can be off-putting, remember that the lounge access you get can be worth it if you’re a frequent traveler.
Other cards with lounge access
- Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite Credit Card
- Wells Fargo Signify Business Cash® Card
- Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card
- The Ritz-Carlton™ Credit Card
- U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card
- Sapphire Reserve for Business℠
- Citi Strata Elite℠ Card
- JetBlue Premier World Elite Mastercard®
Frequently asked questions
Deciding which air travel prescreening program is best for you depends on your travel habits. Global Entry is more useful for international travelers to get through passport checks, while TSA PreCheck® can speed up your check-in process for domestic flights.
All of the credit cards offering airport lounge access that our researchers could find have annual fees. And since it is considered a premium benefit, it’s usually reserved for higher-fee cards. No annual fee cards typically have lower value perks.
There are currently 45 United Club lounges and six United Polaris lounges and partner lounges.
There are currently 50+ Delta Sky Club® Lounges located throughout the U.S. and around the globe.
American Express Centurion® lounges have more than 20 locations, with several new lounges coming in 2026.
American Airlines has nearly 50 locations of its Admirals Club Lounges worldwide, plus more than 50 partner lounges in select domestic and international airports.
Southwest Airlines does not have its own airport lounges.
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®, Chase Sapphire Reserve®, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, Capital One Venture X Business, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®, Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, The New United Club℠ Card, Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card, The New United℠ Business Card, J.P. Morgan Reserve Card, The Ritz-Carlton™ Credit Card, Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Elite Credit Card, Wells Fargo Signify Business Cash® Card, U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card, Sapphire Reserve for Business℠, Citi Strata Elite℠ Card and JetBlue Premier World Elite Mastercard® 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.
