If you travel often, credit cards that grant lounge access might make sense for you. They allow access to airline lounges like Delta’s Sky Club and American Airlines’ Admirals Club as well as centurion and Chase Sapphire networks of lounges.
Consider guest access policies when selecting a card that provides lounge access. Some cards allow you to bring one or more guests at no additional charge into lounges.
1. Priority Pass
Priority Pass lounges provide an oasis of relaxation at airports, offering complimentary snacks, drinks and electrical outlets – ideal if you want a break from airport chaos! Lounge access may cost directly or be included as a credit card perk.
Some premium travel cards, like the American Express Platinum Card and Chase Sapphire Reserve (enrollment required), include unlimited Priority Pass Select visits for their cardholders; others, such as U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card only provide eight complimentary lounge visits each year.
If your credit card benefits include lounge access, your card issuer should automatically provide you with a membership card or provide instructions on how to enroll. Otherwise, Priority Pass membership plans can also be purchased online.
2. Delta Sky Club
Delta Sky Club at JFK provides passengers with a relaxing start or end to their flight, featuring breathtaking views from its covered Sky Deck, soundproof booths for work or restful relaxation, and dining options inspired by local cuisine. For access to these facilities, premium credit cards such as Delta SkyMiles Platinum Card or Business Platinum Card from American Express may be required for entry.
These cards offer complimentary access when traveling on same-day Delta operated or WestJet-marketed and operated flights, premium tickets or elite status in their frequent flier program. Plus you can bring guests for $50 per visit fee or use up to $200 annual Amex airline credits toward guest fees!
Prior to 2024, you could earn unlimited visits by spending at least $75,000 annually on your card – but after facing considerable customer outrage over other planned loyalty program changes, this policy was reversed.
3. Delta Admirals Club
Delta may no longer offer daily Sky Club passes, but there are still ways to gain entry. American Express’ Platinum Card(r) and Business Platinum Card offer access as long as you are traveling on one of their flights or flights marketed by them (excluding basic economy ). In addition, both cards provide access to premium airport lounges such as Centurion Lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges and 1,200 Priority Pass lounges, statement credits for Global Entry fees waived and more – cardholders may bring two guests or immediate family (spouse/domestic partner + children under 21) per visit at $50 per visit.
4. Plaza Premium Lounge
The Plaza Premium Lounge is a global network of airport lounges not owned by any specific airline, enabling cardholders to visit any of its locations worldwide, such as Avianca Lounges in Colombia and MERA Business Lounges in Mexico. Membership perks allow cardholders to visit any or all locations worldwide as part of membership benefits.
Cardholders need only present an eligible American Express card at the entrance. Some cards, like Centurion Black and Platinum Cards from American Express offer access to Plaza Premium lounges (with up to two guests) free of charge.
Other cards without lounge access may still purchase DragonPass lounge passes for two, four, six or 10 visits via the DragonPass Lounge App, with regular promotions offered through LoungePass’ website.
5. Priority Pass Select
Priority Pass Select offers airport lounge access that enables travellers to relax or grab a quick bite before their flight. Membership options come with various credit cards such as Chase Sapphire Reserve and The Platinum Card from American Express, so take a look if this sounds appealing!
Dependent upon the credit card that provides your Priority Pass Select membership, lounge visits may either be free or incur fees; additionally, visit limits will vary based on card.
Many credit cards that provide lounge access also include additional benefits beyond Priority Pass lounge access, such as free meals at participating airport restaurants and spas or credits that appear as rewards on your statement; you will typically need to enroll through a link within your card account’s “Benefits” section to receive these offers.
