Best Credit Cards for Airport Lounge Access in 2025: Top Picks for Frequent Travelers
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
In 2025, airport lounges remain a coveted perk for both frequent flyers and the occasional traveler. Lounges offer peace, charging stations, complimentary food and beverages, and a quiet place to work or unwind. As airport crowds swell, this benefit is increasingly appreciated for both its comfort and convenience.
Top Credit Card Options for Lounge Access
1. Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Annual Fee: $395 (offset by $300 travel credit + 10,000 anniversary miles)
Lounge Access:
Unlimited Priority Pass Select visits
Access to Capital One Lounges and Capital One Landings
2 free guests per visit until Feb 1, 2026; afterward, fees apply for guests and authorized users
Robust rewards on travel and a strong value proposition overall
2. Citi Strata Elite Credit Card
Annual Fee: $595
Lounge Access:
Unlimited Priority Pass Select visits
2 guests included per visit
Four Admirals Club one-day passes per year
Low-cost authorized user add-ons (~$75) with full lounge access. A smart pick for family travelers who value shared access and flexibility.
3. American Express Platinum Card
Annual Fee: $695
Lounge Access:
Unlimited Priority Pass Select (enrollment required)
Access to Amex Centurion Lounges and Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta)
2 guests allowed per Priority Pass visit
Adds lounge access to already abundant premium travel perks
4. Chase Sapphire Reserve
Annual Fee: Recently increased to $795 for new applicants as of June 23, 2025; existing cardholders will see the increase by October 25, 2025
Lounge Access:
Unlimited Priority Pass Select visits
Access to Chase Sapphire Lounges (NYC & BOS)
Currently includes 2 free guests per visit
New Perks: $500 hotel & resort credit, $300 dining credit (Sapphire Reserve Exclusive Tables), $300 StubHub/Viagogo credit, Apple TV+ & Apple Music subscriptions, elite status opportunities with sufficient spend.
This card’s success depends on how well you monetize its elevated credits and benefits.
5. U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature (No Annual Fee)
Annual Fee: $0
Lounge Access:
4 Priority Pass visits per year
Statement credit (up to $100 every four years) for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck
Best suited for infrequent travelers seeking occasional lounge access without a fee
6. United Explorer / United Business Card
Annual Fee: $150 (Explorer is $0 first year)
Lounge Access:
2 United Club one-time passes per year
Other travel perks like checked baggage fee waived, bonus miles, status progression
7. Atmos Rewards Summit Visa Infinite
Annual Fee: $395
Lounge Access:
8 Alaska Lounge passes annually (2 per quarter)
Good for travelers loyal to Alaska & Hawaiian Airlines, including companion awards and fee credits
8. PenFed Pathfinder Rewards
Annual Fee: $95 (waived for Honors Advantage members)
Lounge Access:
Priority Pass access for cardholder & one guest (entry fee applies)
Additional $100 airline incidental credit and Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit
An under-the-radar option with compelling value for eligible applicants
Choosing the Best Card for Your Needs
Your Priority | Best Card(s) |
Best overall value | Capital One Venture X – lounge access + travel credits = standout value |
Frequent flyers with companions | Citi Strata Elite, Amex Platinum – unlimited access + guest access |
Maximizing premium perks | Amex Platinum or Chase Sapphire Reserve – high fees, high benefits |
Budget-conscious traveler | U.S. Bank Altitude Connect – no annual fee but limited visits |
United-focused travel | United Explorer – airline-specific access & benefits |
Alaska/Hawaiian flyers | Atmos Summit – lounge access and airline perks |
Exclusive but affordable | PenFed Pathfinder – decent lounge access with low fee (membership required) |
Final Thoughts
Lounge access remains a powerful perk in 2025 as airports grow more crowded and stressful. Whether you're looking for the most complete benefit package or simply a handful of lounge passes per year, there's a card tailored to your needs.
For most travelers, Capital One Venture X currently offers the best combination of value, access, and flexibility. Frequent flyers seeking premium experiences may prefer Amex Platinum or Chase Sapphire Reserve, especially given the latter’s newly expanded benefits—though at a higher cost. And if fees are your primary concern, the U.S. Bank Altitude Connect is a smart, no-fee starter.
Let me know if you'd like a breakdown tailored to a specific airport route, travel frequency, or guest policy—or a polished final version ready for your publication!