American express credit card with free airport lounge access

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Do you know anyone who purposely gets to the airport earlier than they have to? Airports are noisy and hectic; the seats are uncomfortable and the food is expensive. Why be there any longer than absolutely necessary?

Find the right card with free airport lounge access for you

• Chase Sapphire Reserve®

• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

• United Club℠ Infinite Card

• United℠ Explorer Card

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80,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Earn 5x points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® 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.

75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Earn 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel. Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases.

80,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases including tickets, Economy Plus, inflight food, beverages and Wi-Fi, and other United charges. Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel. Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining including eligible delivery services. Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases.

50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, hotel stays, and United® purchases and 1 mile per $1 spent on all other eligible purchases.

$0 intro for the first year, then $95

Actually, a lot of us arrive early at the airport — and sometimes even loiter for a while after we've landed. We've got the golden ticket to free alcohol and food, high-speed internet, comfortable loungers, and occasionally free massages. All it takes is holding the right credit card.

If you consider yourself a frequent flyer, a credit card with airport lounge access is worth every penny. Let's look at the best credit cards for airport lounge access.

We're focused here on the rewards and perks that come with each card. These cards won't be worth it if you're paying interest or late fees. When using a credit card, it's important to pay your balance in full each month, make payments on time, and only spend what you can afford to pay.

What are airport lounges?

When you go into any old airport bar or restaurant, you'll likely pay prices reserved for captive audiences in major sports stadiums and theaters. $12 beers and $16 cocktails are far from a bargain. But you can get them for free in an airport lounge.

Most lounge networks provide a number of premium locations at airports around the world. There are really three main lounge types you should know about:

Airline lounges

Most airlines oversee their own proprietary lounge network. Depending on the size of the carrier, it may have just a few lounges or dozens at its most frequented airports.

For the most part, these lounges are reserved for international premium travelers, elite travelers with a ton of annual flights, those who pay a sizable fee, or cardholders of the airline's premium travel credit card. Expect to pay $450+ per year for this type of credit card.

Priority Pass Select

Many lounges operate independently of the airlines. Priority Pass Select is a network that gives you access to 1,300+ lounges around the world.

Each lounge has its own rules on admission, guests, and complimentary beverages. Most give you and two guests admission at no charge. Once inside, you can drink and eat to your heart's content without paying a dime.

American Express Centurion Lounges

American Express Centurion Lounges are next-level lounges that offer proper hot meals (gourmet, even), with free mixed drinks, shower suites, and sometimes recreational activities like pool and shuffleboard tables.

These lounges are mostly found in the US. Centurion Lounges have comparatively few locations when compared to Priority Pass — 24 worldwide at the moment, with another 12 Centurion "Studios" serving as a "lite" version of the premium lounge network.

Unless you frequent major airports, you may not encounter a Centurion Lounge as often as you might think.

Best credit cards that offer airport lounge access

The Platinum Card® from American Express <desc> <g id="asterisk" stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"> <path d="M29.37 0a5 5 0 014.975 4.805l.004.216-.074 17.076 16.857-9.732a5 5 0 015.196 8.542l-.196.119-16.316 9.42 16.316 9.42a5 5 0 01-4.799 8.77l-.2-.11-16.929-9.774-.07 16.27a5 5 0 01-9.996.175l-.003-.217.065-15.519-15.7 9.065a5 5 0 01-5.195-8.542l.196-.119 16.315-9.42-16.315-9.42a5 5 0 014.8-8.77l.2.11 15.776 9.11.072-16.496A5 5 0 0129.37 0z" fill="#111"> </path></g> </desc>

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Intro offer

100,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $6,000 in your first 6 months of card membership

Rewards

Earn 5x Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel on up to $500,000 per calendar year. Earn 5x Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. 1 point per dollar on other purchases.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Intro offer

100,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $6,000 in your first 6 months of card membership

Rewards

Earn 5x Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel on up to $500,000 per calendar year. Earn 5x Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. 1 point per dollar on other purchases.

On American Express's website

The Platinum Card® from American Express

On American Express's website

Details

Rewards

Earn 5x Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel on up to $500,000 per calendar year. Earn 5x Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. 1 point per dollar on other purchases.

Annual Fee

$695

See Rates and Fees

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Intro offer

100,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $6,000 in your first 6 months of card membership

Recommended Credit

Good to Excellent

Regular APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Editor's Rating

4.75/5

Our editor's ratings analyze fees, bonuses, rewards, and benefits to highlight the simplest and most valuable credit cards available.

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Pros & Cons

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Long list of travel benefits, including airport lounge access and complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott (enrollment required)

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Annual statement credits with Saks and Uber

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Bonus categories leave something to be desired

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One of the highest annual fees among premium travel cards

Highlights

• Earn 100,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• 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.
• Get $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings, which requires a minimum two-night stay, through American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. And if you fly, you can receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year after you select a qualifying airline and incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Audible, Disney+, The Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, Peacock, SiriusXM, and The New York Times. Enrollment required.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Ups are excluded.
• American Express has expanded The Centurion® Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. There are even more places your Platinum Card® can get you complimentary entry and exclusive perks.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year in baggage fees and more at one select qualifying airline.
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only.
• $300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $25 back each month on the Equinox+ digital fitness app, or eligible Equinox club memberships when you pay with your Platinum Card®. Enrollment required.
• $189 CLEAR® Credit: Use your Card and get up to $189 back per year on your CLEAR® membership. CLEAR® is available at select airports and stadiums.
• $695 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.

Additional Reading

No travel credit card on the market offers more comprehensive airport lounge access than The Platinum Card® from American Express. You'll receive entry to the following lounge networks:

• Amex Centurion Lounges (widely considered to be the best airport lounges in the US)
• Priority Pass** (access to more than 1,300 airport lounges worldwide)
• Delta Sky Club lounges (only when you have a same-day Delta boarding pass)
• Escape Lounge – The Centurion Studio Partner
• Plaza Premium lounges
• Lufthansa lounges (when flying Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, or SWISS)

There are some other peripheral lounge networks that you can enter but probably won't encounter. For example, Airspace Lounges currently has one location in San Diego.

I had never tried an Amex Centurion Lounge until last year. I've since been to six of them throughout the US, and they are consistently higher quality than other lounges offered by Priority Pass.

The Amex Platinum charges a $695 annual fee — but it comes excellent ongoing benefits, such as:

• Up to $200 in airline fee credits** each calendar year
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
• $189 per year in credits for CLEAR® membership**
• Up to $200 in credits per year toward prepaid hotel bookings through Amex Fine Hotels and Resorts or The Hotel Collection (minimum two-night stay)
• Up to $200 in Uber Cash each calendar year**
• Up to $20 per month in statement credits toward eligible digital subscriptions (Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+, Audible, Peacock, Sirius XM, and The New York Times)
• $12.95 in credits each month toward Walmart+ membership**
• Amex Fine Hotels and Resorts (benefits at exclusive luxury properties)
• Cell phone protection

The card also offers 100,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $6,000 in your first 6 months of card membership.

Insider estimates Amex points value to be 1.8 cents each, making this initial bonus worth $1,800 in travel, on average.  Read our post on the best ways to use Amex Membership Rewards to see how much more valuable these points can be.

Review: American Express Platinum Card review

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express <desc> <g id="asterisk" stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"> <path d="M29.37 0a5 5 0 014.975 4.805l.004.216-.074 17.076 16.857-9.732a5 5 0 015.196 8.542l-.196.119-16.316 9.42 16.316 9.42a5 5 0 01-4.799 8.77l-.2-.11-16.929-9.774-.07 16.27a5 5 0 01-9.996.175l-.003-.217.065-15.519-15.7 9.065a5 5 0 01-5.195-8.542l.196-.119 16.315-9.42-16.315-9.42a5 5 0 014.8-8.77l.2.11 15.776 9.11.072-16.496A5 5 0 0129.37 0z" fill="#111"> </path></g> </desc>

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

Intro offer

120,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $15,000 on eligible purchases with your card within the first 3 months of card membership

Rewards

Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases. Earn 1.5X points (that's an extra half point per dollar) on eligible purchases 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 everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

Intro offer

120,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $15,000 on eligible purchases with your card within the first 3 months of card membership

Rewards

Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases. Earn 1.5X points (that's an extra half point per dollar) on eligible purchases 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 everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.

On American Express's website

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

On American Express's website

Details

Rewards

Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases. Earn 1.5X points (that's an extra half point per dollar) on eligible purchases 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 everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.

Intro offer

120,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $15,000 on eligible purchases with your card within the first 3 months of card membership

Recommended Credit

Good to Excellent

Regular APR

17.24% - 25.24% Variable

Pros & Cons

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More travel benefits than you'll find on any other business credit card

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Generous airport lounge access options, from American Express Centurion Lounges to Priority Pass (enrollment required)

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Complimentary hotel elite status (enrollment required)

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Access to Amex concierge services

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Very high annual fee

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Limited opportunities to earn bonus points

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Annual statement credits won't be useful for everyone

Highlights

• Welcome Offer: Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
• Get 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels on amextravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
• Earn 1.5X points (that's an extra half point per dollar) on eligible purchases 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 everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
• Unlock over $1,000 in annual statement credits on a curation of business purchases, including select purchases made with Dell Technologies, Indeed, Adobe, and U.S. wireless service providers.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year for checked baggage fees, lounge day passes, and more at one selected airline.
• $189 CLEAR® Credit: Use your Card and get up to $189 back per year on your CLEAR® membership. CLEAR® is available at more than 50 U.S. airports and stadiums.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more lounge location options than any other credit card on the market as of 9/2021.
• $695 Annual Fee.
• Terms Apply.
• See Rates & Fees

Additional Reading

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express offers the exact same airport lounge access and guest policies as the personal Amex Platinum. However, this card is marketed to an entirely different audience.

This is a small-business card, meaning you must have a business venture (even a part-time gig) to qualify for the Amex Business Platinum. Its key benefits are more closely aligned with business expenses:

• Up to $200 in airline fee credits** for checked baggage fees, lounge day passes, and more at one selected airline each calendar year
• Up to $400 in U.S. Dell credits** each calendar year
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
• Up to $120 in credits for U.S. wireless providers each calendar year
• Up to $360 in Indeed credits** each calendar year
• Up to $150 in Adobe credits** each calendar year
• Up to $189 back per year in for CLEAR® membership**
• 35% points rebate when you redeem points for first- or business-class tickets, or for any fare with your selected airline, through Amex Travel (up to 500,000 points back per calendar year)
• Cell phone protection

This card comes with 120,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $15,000 on eligible purchases with your card within the first 3 months of card membership. Again, Insider values Amex points at 1.8 cents each, making this bonus worth $2,160 in travel, on average.

Review: Amex Business Platinum Card review

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Intro offer

80,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Rewards

Earn 5x points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® 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.

Intro offer

80,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Rewards

Earn 5x points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® 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.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Details

Rewards

Earn 5x points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards® 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.

Intro offer

80,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Recommended Credit

Good to Excellent

Recommended credit score. Note that credit card lenders may use many different variations of credit score models when considering your application.

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Regular APR

19.99% - 26.99% Variable

Editor's Rating

4.65/5

Our editor's ratings analyze fees, bonuses, rewards, and benefits to highlight the simplest and most valuable credit cards available.

Show more

Pros & Cons

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Annual travel credit can effectively shave $300 off the annual fee if you use it

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Strong travel insurance

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Strong bonus rewards on travel and dining

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Very high annual fee

Highlights

• Earn 80,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,200 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
• $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 Ultimate Rewards® 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 Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 80,000 points are worth $1,200 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 $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more

Additional Reading

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is one of Insider's picks for all-around top travel credit cards. It's got excellent benefits that upgrade your travel experience — and its top-tier travel insurance is reason enough to keep it in your wallet.  

This card offers membership in two lounge networks:

• Priority Pass Select — You can access all Priority Pass lounges as often as you want — with two free guests. You can even add authorized users for $75 each and they'll receive their own full-blown Priority Pass Select membership.
• Chase Sapphire Lounges — Chase will soon open four proprietary lounges in San Diego (SAN), New York-LaGuardia (LGA), Boston (BOS), and Hong Kong (HKG). We don't have an exact opening date.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® comes with a $550 annual fee. But for that price, you'll also receive:

• Up to $300 in statement credits each cardmember year toward travel purchases
• Complimentary year of DoorDash DashPass membership (activation required by December 31, 2024)
• Access to Reserved by Sapphire restaurant reservations 
• Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS application fee credit
• Primary car rental insurance
• Trip delay insurance
• Baggage delay insurance
• Lost luggage reimbursement

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® comes with 80,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. We estimate Chase points to be worth 1.8 cents each, making this bonus worth $1,440 in travel, on average. Read our post on the best ways to use Chase Ultimate Rewards to see how you can redeem them for significantly more. 

Review: Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card review

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Intro offer

75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Rewards

Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Earn 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel. Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Intro offer

75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Rewards

Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Earn 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel. Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Details

Rewards

Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Earn 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel. Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases.

Intro offer

75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Recommended Credit

Excellent

Regular APR

19.99% - 26.99% Variable

Pros & Cons

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Excellent welcome bonus and miles earning

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Premium perks including airport lounge access and statement credits

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Visa Infinite benefits including travel and shopping protections

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High annual fee

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Annual travel statement credits only apply to Capital One Travel purchases

Highlights

• 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 up to $300 back annually as statement credits for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of 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 booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,400+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and our Partner Lounge Network
• Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• 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

Additional Reading

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is one of the most powerful travel credit cards on the market. It incurs the lowest annual fee of any premium credit card at $395 — making it one of the cheapest ways to hold onto airport lounge membership.

With this card, you'll get:

• Priority Pass Select — Unlimited access to 1,300 Priority Pass lounges for you and two free guests. You can add up to four authorized users at no cost, and they'll receive the same lounge privileges as the primary cardholder.
• Capital One airport lounges — Unlimited access for you and two free guests, though there is currently only one location in Dallas (DFW) with another coming soon to Denver (DEN).
• Plaza Premium airport lounges — Unlimited access worldwide for you and two free guests

Similar to the Chase Sapphire Reserve, this card's Priority Pass membership can be used at participating airport restaurants for a $28 to $30 discount (or $56 to $60 if you bring a guest). I recently used this perk for a complimentary whiskey tasting at Westward Whiskey at the Portland airport.

This card also offers solid benefits such as:

• Up to $300 per year in statement credits toward Capital One Travel bookings
• 10,000-mile bonus each account anniversary (worth at least $100 in travel)
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
• Primary car rental insurance
• Trip delay reimbursement
• Cell phone protection

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card comes with 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Capital One miles are worth at least 1 cent each toward travel, making this bonus worth $1,275. However, if you know how to use Capital One miles to their full potential, you may get double that value!

Review: Capital One Venture X Credit Card review

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card <desc> <g id="asterisk" stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"> <path d="M29.37 0a5 5 0 014.975 4.805l.004.216-.074 17.076 16.857-9.732a5 5 0 015.196 8.542l-.196.119-16.316 9.42 16.316 9.42a5 5 0 01-4.799 8.77l-.2-.11-16.929-9.774-.07 16.27a5 5 0 01-9.996.175l-.003-.217.065-15.519-15.7 9.065a5 5 0 01-5.195-8.542l.196-.119 16.315-9.42-16.315-9.42a5 5 0 014.8-8.77l.2.11 15.776 9.11.072-16.496A5 5 0 0129.37 0z" fill="#111"> </path></g> </desc>

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

Intro offer

150,000 points after spending at least $4,000 in the first three months of account opening

Rewards

Earn 14x Points on hotels & resorts at eligible purchases at hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio. Earn 7x Points on select travel including flights booked directly with airlines or AmexTravel.com and car rentals booked directly with select car rental companies. Earn 7x Points on dining at restaurants worldwide, and for takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 3X Points on all other purchases.

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

Intro offer

150,000 points after spending at least $4,000 in the first three months of account opening

Rewards

Earn 14x Points on hotels & resorts at eligible purchases at hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio. Earn 7x Points on select travel including flights booked directly with airlines or AmexTravel.com and car rentals booked directly with select car rental companies. Earn 7x Points on dining at restaurants worldwide, and for takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 3X Points on all other purchases.

On American Express's website

Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card

On American Express's website

Details

Rewards

Earn 14x Points on hotels & resorts at eligible purchases at hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio. Earn 7x Points on select travel including flights booked directly with airlines or AmexTravel.com and car rentals booked directly with select car rental companies. Earn 7x Points on dining at restaurants worldwide, and for takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 3X Points on all other purchases.

Intro offer

150,000 points after spending at least $4,000 in the first three months of account opening

Recommended Credit

Good to Excellent

Regular APR

15.74% to 24.74% variable APR on purchases

Pros & Cons

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Complimentary top-tier Hilton elite status

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Get a weekend night reward each year after you renew your card

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High welcome bonus

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Valuable annual statement credit for eligible Hilton purchases

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High annual fee

Highlights

• The information related to the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card has been collected by Business Insider and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer.
• Earn 150,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases on the card within your first 3 months of card membership
• 14X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your card directly with a hotel or resort within the Hilton portfolio
• 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases on your Card on flights booked directly with airlines or amextravel.com, and on car rentals booked directly from select car rental companies
• 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases on your card at U.S. restaurants
• 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your card

Additional Reading

You won't see many five-star credit card ratings on Insider, but the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card is one of the few that deserves it. The card is so packed with valuable benefits for its $450 annual fee that it's a no-brainer for those who travel with any regularity.

The card provides Priority Pass Select lounge access. That's unlimited entries for you and up to two guests traveling with you. You'll also get:

• $250 annual Hilton resort statement credit
• Automatic Hilton Honors Diamond elite status 
• Annual reward night certificate
• Another free reward night certificate after you spend a total of $60,000 on eligible purchases in a calendar year
• Up to $100 in on-property credits for minimum stays of two nights at participating Waldorf Astoria and Conrad properties
• Up to $250 in airline incidental fee credits** per calendar year

The Amex Hilton Aspire comes with 150,000 points after spending at least $4,000 in the first three months of account opening. Insider estimates Hilton points value to be 0.5 cents each, on average. That makes this bonus worth $750 in Hilton stays. But if you know the best ways to use Hilton points, you can get many times that value by choosing the right hotel to redeem your points.

Review: Amex Hilton Aspire review

American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ American Express® Card

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ American Express® Card

Intro offer

150,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after spending $5,000 in purchases on the card within the first three months from account opening

Rewards

Earn 6 Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy™ program. Earn 3 points at Worldwide Restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines. Earn 2 points on all other eligible purchases.

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ American Express® Card

Intro offer

150,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after spending $5,000 in purchases on the card within the first three months from account opening

Rewards

Earn 6 Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy™ program. Earn 3 points at Worldwide Restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines. Earn 2 points on all other eligible purchases.

On American Express's website

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ American Express® Card

On American Express's website

Details

Rewards

Earn 6 Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy™ program. Earn 3 points at Worldwide Restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines. Earn 2 points on all other eligible purchases.

Intro offer

150,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after spending $5,000 in purchases on the card within the first three months from account opening

Recommended Credit

Good to Excellent

Regular APR

18.74% - 27.74% Variable

Pros & Cons

Check mark iconA check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction.

Annual statement credits can save you money on Marriott stays

Check mark iconA check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction.

You get a free reward night each year after your renewal month

Dash iconA dash. It often indicates an interaction to shrink a section.

High annual fee

Dash iconA dash. It often indicates an interaction to shrink a section.

Other cards are more rewarding for earning points on your spending

Highlights

• Earn 150,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases on the Card within the first 3 months.
• Each Card renewal year, get up to $300 in statement credits per calendar year (up to $25 per month) for eligible purchases at restaurants worldwide.
• A Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite member will earn 50% more points on eligible purchases at participating hotels for each U.S. dollar or the currency equivalent that is incurred and paid for by the member.
• Earn 6 Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy™ program. 3 points at Worldwide Restaurants and on flights booked directly with airlines. 2 points on all other eligible purchases.
• Marriott Brilliant Free Night Award: 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®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
• Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases, Card Members are eligible to select an Earned Choice Award benefit. Benefit options include: Five (5) Suite Night Awards, 85K Free Night Award, and mattress and box spring $750 discount from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques.
• $100 Luxury 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 ($100) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership through any Authorized Enrollment Provider for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85) when you pay the application fee with an eligible Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
• Each calendar year 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. Terms apply.
• Enroll in Priority Pass Select, which offers unlimited access to over 1,200 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.
• Enjoy unlimited airport lounge visits when you enroll in Priority Pass™ Select membership.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
• Cell phone protection: You can be reimbursed for your costs to repair or replace your damaged or Stolen cell phone up to $800, subject to a $50 deductible, for 2 approved claims per 12-month period when your prior month's wireless bill was paid utilizing an Eligible Card Account. Terms and conditions apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
• $650 Annual Fee.
• Terms Apply.
• See Rates & Fees

Additional Reading

The American Express Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ American Express® Card is another easy-to-justify premium travel credit card. With an annual fee of $650, you'll get benefits such as:

• Up to $300 in statement credits per calendar year (up to $25 per month) for eligible purchases at restaurants worldwide.
• Annual free night award after your card renewal month (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points)
• 25 elite night credits each calendar year
• Automatic Marriott Bonvoy Platinum elite status
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit

To boot, you'll receive Priority Pass Select airport lounge access. You and two guests traveling with you can enter for free as often as you like. Even if there's more than one lounge at your airport, you can hopscotch around to try them all.

The Amex Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant comes with a substantial bonus: 150,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after spending $5,000 in purchases on the card within the first three months from account opening.

Insider estimates Marriott points value to be 0.7 cents each, on average. That means the points portion of this bonus is worth $1,050 in Marriott stays. But read our guide to the best ways to use Marriott points to learn how to squeeze much more value from your rewards.

Review: Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express review

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

Intro offer

95,000 bonus miles after you spend $6,000 in purchases on your new card in your first 6 months from account opening (offer ends 11/9/22)

Rewards

Earn 3x Miles on Delta purchases made directly with Delta. Earn 1X Miles on all other purchases.

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

Intro offer

95,000 bonus miles after you spend $6,000 in purchases on your new card in your first 6 months from account opening (offer ends 11/9/22)

Rewards

Earn 3x Miles on Delta purchases made directly with Delta. Earn 1X Miles on all other purchases.

On American Express's website

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

On American Express's website

Details

Rewards

Earn 3x Miles on Delta purchases made directly with Delta. Earn 1X Miles on all other purchases.

Intro offer

95,000 bonus miles after you spend $6,000 in purchases on your new card in your first 6 months from account opening (offer ends 11/9/22)

Recommended Credit

Good to Excellent

Regular APR

18.74% - 27.74% Variable

Pros & Cons

Check mark iconA check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction.

Annual companion certificate benefit, which is valid for domestic first class and Comfort+ as well as the main cabin

Check mark iconA check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction.

Access to Delta Sky Clubs and American Express Centurion Lounges when you're flying Delta

Check mark iconA check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction.

Earns 3x miles on Delta purchases

Dash iconA dash. It often indicates an interaction to shrink a section.

Very high annual fee

Dash iconA dash. It often indicates an interaction to shrink a section.

Doesn't offer bonus miles on non-Delta purchases

Highlights

• Earn 95,000 bonus miles after you spend $6,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.
• Earn up to 60,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) with Status Boost® per year. After you spend $30,000 in purchases on your Card in a calendar year, you can earn 15,000 MQMs up to four times per year, getting you closer to Medallion® Status. MQMs are used to determine Medallion® Status and are different than miles you earn toward flights.
• Receive a domestic First Class, Delta Comfort+® or domestic Main Cabin round trip companion certificate each year upon renewal of your Card. Payment of the government imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights (for itineraries with up to four flight segments) is required. Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
• Complimentary access into the Delta Sky Club® for you when travelling on a Delta flight.
• Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
• Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® after you apply through any Authorized Enrollment Provider. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
• Enjoy your first checked bag free on Delta flights.
• Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases.
• Earn 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• $550 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.
• See Rates & Fees

Additional Reading

The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card  is unique among all airline co-branded cards in that it provides access to more than just the lounge network of the airline that graces its front. Here's what you'll get:

• Delta Sky Club access — Free entry when flying on a same-day Delta-operated/marketed flight. You'll also get two single-use guest passes each year. 
• Amex Centurion Lounge access — Free entry when flying on a same-day Delta-operated/marketed flight. You won't get any free guests, but can purchase a maximum of two guest passes per visit at a rate of $50 each.

The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card comes with a $550 annual fee. That's only slightly more than purchasing a Delta Sky Club membership outright (it normally costs $545 per year).

The card also offers:

• Free first checked bag and priority boarding on Delta flights
• Annual Delta companion certificate
• 15,000 Medallion® Qualification Miles (MQMs) after you spend $30,000 in purchases on your card in a calendar year, up to four times*
• Complimentary Delta Sky Club airport lounge access when you fly Delta
• Access to complimentary upgrades and upgrade priority
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit after you apply through any authorized enrollment provider
• 20% off inflight purchases as a statement credit

If you're a first-time cardholder, you'll receive 95,000 bonus miles after you spend $6,000 in purchases on your new card in your first 6 months from account opening (offer ends 11/9/22). Insider estimates Delta points value to be 1.1 cents each, making this bonus worth $1,045 miles in Delta flights. But it's possible to receive much more value from your miles — I once received a value of 26 cents per Delta mile when booking a business class flight.

Read our post on the best ways to use Delta miles.  

Review: Delta SkyMiles Reserve review

United Club℠ Infinite Card

United Club℠ Infinite Card

Intro offer

80,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Rewards

Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases including tickets, Economy Plus, inflight food, beverages and Wi-Fi, and other United charges. Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel. Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining including eligible delivery services. Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases.

United Club℠ Infinite Card

Intro offer

80,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Rewards

Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases including tickets, Economy Plus, inflight food, beverages and Wi-Fi, and other United charges. Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel. Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining including eligible delivery services. Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases.

United Club℠ Infinite Card

Details

Rewards

Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases including tickets, Economy Plus, inflight food, beverages and Wi-Fi, and other United charges. Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel. Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining including eligible delivery services. Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases.

Intro offer

80,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Recommended Credit

Excellent

Regular APR

19.49% - 26.49% Variable

Pros & Cons

Check mark iconA check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction.

Great intro bonus offer

Check mark iconA check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction.

If you want United Club membership, this card gets you it for less than buying it outright

Check mark iconA check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction.

Get two free checked bags on United

Check mark iconA check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction.

Earns 4x miles on United® purchases

Dash iconA dash. It often indicates an interaction to shrink a section.

Steep annual fee, especially for an airline credit card

Dash iconA dash. It often indicates an interaction to shrink a section.

The non-United bonus categories (travel and dining) only earn 2x miles

Highlights

• Earn 80,000 bonus miles.
• Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases including tickets, Economy Plus, inflight food, beverages and Wi-Fi, and other United charges.
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining including eligible delivery services
• Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Up to $100 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS fee credit
• Free first and second checked bags - a savings of up to $320 per roundtrip. Terms Apply
• Get one-year complimentary DashPass, a membership for both DoorDash and Caviar that provides unlimited deliveries with $0 delivery fees and lower service fees on eligible orders. After that, you are automatically enrolled in DashPass at the current monthly rate. Activate by 12/31/24.

Additional Reading

The United Club℠ Infinite Card charges a $525 annual fee. A United Club airport lounge membership costs $650 (unless you have top-tier United elite status). Therefore, if United Club membership is important to you, opening the United Club Infinite is a no-brainer way to save $125.

You'll receive a full United Club membership with this card, meaning you can also bring two guests (or one adult and as many children under 21 as you like). You'll even gain access to several other Star Alliance airline lounges.

The United Club Infinite also comes with:

• Free first and second checked bags on United flights (you must pay with the card)
• Priority boarding on United flights
• Premier Access travel services
• NEXUS, Global Entry, or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
• Complimentary Premier upgrades
• Expanded access to United award flights

Plus, it offers an intro bonus of 80,000 bonus miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Insider estimates United points value to be 1.3 cents each, making this bonus worth $1,040 in United flights. Read how to maximize United miles for secrets of how to redeem that same amount of miles for thousands more dollars.

Review: United Club Infinite card review

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® <desc> <g id="asterisk" stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"> <path d="M29.37 0a5 5 0 014.975 4.805l.004.216-.074 17.076 16.857-9.732a5 5 0 015.196 8.542l-.196.119-16.316 9.42 16.316 9.42a5 5 0 01-4.799 8.77l-.2-.11-16.929-9.774-.07 16.27a5 5 0 01-9.996.175l-.003-.217.065-15.519-15.7 9.065a5 5 0 01-5.195-8.542l.196-.119 16.315-9.42-16.315-9.42a5 5 0 014.8-8.77l.2.11 15.776 9.11.072-16.496A5 5 0 0129.37 0z" fill="#111"> </path></g> </desc>

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®

Intro offer

80,000 bonus miles after spending $5,500 within the first 3 months of account opening

Rewards

Earn 2x miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases. Earn 1x mile for every $1 spent on other purchases

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®

Intro offer

80,000 bonus miles after spending $5,500 within the first 3 months of account opening

Rewards

Earn 2x miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases. Earn 1x mile for every $1 spent on other purchases

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®

Insider’s Take

This is a terrific card for frequent American Airlines flyers who can take advantage of its included Admirals Club membership and other day-of-travel perks to offset the high annual fee. Authorized users also get Admirals Club access, so there's extra value to be had there, too. However, it's not the best card for earning AA miles on everyday spending, and the lack of travel protections isn't ideal for an airline credit card.

Details

Rewards

Earn 2x miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases. Earn 1x mile for every $1 spent on other purchases

Intro offer

80,000 bonus miles after spending $5,500 within the first 3 months of account opening

Recommended Credit

Excellent

Regular APR

18.99% - 27.99% Variable

Pros & Cons

Check mark iconA check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction.

Full Admirals Club membership gets you (and authorized users) access to American Airlines lounges

Check mark iconA check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction.

Lots of American Airlines benefits, including priority boarding and check-in and a free checked bag for you and up to eight travel companions

Dash iconA dash. It often indicates an interaction to shrink a section.

High annual fee

Dash iconA dash. It often indicates an interaction to shrink a section.

Only earns bonus miles on American Airlines purchases

Highlights

• The information related to the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® Card has been collected by Business Insider and has not been reviewed by the issuer.
• Earn 80,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after making $5,500 in purchases within 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 2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases and 1 AAdvantage® mile for every $1 spent on other 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

Additional Reading

The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® comes with a $450 annual fee. The main payoff — and only reason you should consider paying that fee — is because the card offers American Airlines Admirals Club airport lounge access.

Unless you've got American Airlines elite status, you'll pay $650 per year for Admirals Club membership. Opening this card is a much cheaper route. To enter American Airlines lounges, you must have a same-day boarding pass on American or one of its partners in order to access the lounge.

This card also comes with:

• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
• Free first checked bag for you and up to eight companions on your reservation
• Priority screening, check-in, and boarding with American Airlines

To boot, you'll receive 80,000 bonus miles after spending $5,500 within the first 3 months of account opening. Insider estimates American Airlines miles are worth 1.4 cents each. That makes this bonus worth $1,120 in airfare. However, if you know the best ways to use American Airlines miles, you can receive many times that value.

Review: Citi AAdvantage Executive card review

One of the best credit cards for airport lounges is no longer available (but you can get it anyway)

The Ritz-Carlton™ Credit Card is perhaps the best travel credit card that isn't on the market. It's' not available to new applicants — but there's a way you can still get it.

If you ask them, Chase can convert your existing Marriott credit card, such as the Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card or Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card, into the Ritz-Carlton Card. The only catch is that you must have held your current Marriott card for at least one year, and your credit limit must be $10,000 or more. If your credit limit is lower, you can request that credit from your other Chase cards be reallocated to the Ritz-Carlton Card. 

The Chase Ritz-Carlton Card comes with Priority Pass lounge access. Here are a few reasons why it's better than the majority of travel credit cards for airport lounges:

• There's no (written) cap on the number of free guests you can bring with you. If you travel with a large family, this could save you $100+ every time you visit a lounge.
• You can add authorized users for free, and they get their own Priority Pass membership (with unlimited guests).
• The Priority Pass membership issued from the Ritz-Carlton card qualifies for Priority Pass restaurant discounts ($28 to $30 off your meal, plus another $28 to $30 if you bring a guest).

You won't get a sign-up bonus since there's no way to apply for the card. But it also comes with valuable benefits such as:

• Up to $300 in annual credits to offset airline incidentals
• Annual free night certificate with Marriott for hotels costing up to 50,000 points per night
• Top-tier travel coverage

This card comes with a $450 annual fee.

New to airport lounges? Give them a test drive for cheap (or even free)

It's understandable if you're apprehensive about paying $395+ for a credit card that comes with access to airport lounges — especially if you're not even sure you'll like them.

If you want to give them a try to see if they fit your travel style, open one of the following cards first.

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card <desc> <g id="asterisk" stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"> <path d="M29.37 0a5 5 0 014.975 4.805l.004.216-.074 17.076 16.857-9.732a5 5 0 015.196 8.542l-.196.119-16.316 9.42 16.316 9.42a5 5 0 01-4.799 8.77l-.2-.11-16.929-9.774-.07 16.27a5 5 0 01-9.996.175l-.003-.217.065-15.519-15.7 9.065a5 5 0 01-5.195-8.542l.196-.119 16.315-9.42-16.315-9.42a5 5 0 014.8-8.77l.2.11 15.776 9.11.072-16.496A5 5 0 0129.37 0z" fill="#111"> </path></g> </desc>

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

Intro offer

130,000 points after spending $2,000 in eligible purchases on the card in the first 3 months of card membership

Rewards

Earn 12x Points on hotels & resorts at eligible purchases at hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio. Earn 6x Points on dining at restaurants worldwide, and for takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 6x Points on groceries at U.S. supermarkets. Earn 6x Points on gas at U.S. gas stations. Earn 3X Points on all other purchases

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

Intro offer

130,000 points after spending $2,000 in eligible purchases on the card in the first 3 months of card membership

Rewards

Earn 12x Points on hotels & resorts at eligible purchases at hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio. Earn 6x Points on dining at restaurants worldwide, and for takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 6x Points on groceries at U.S. supermarkets. Earn 6x Points on gas at U.S. gas stations. Earn 3X Points on all other purchases

On American Express's website

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

On American Express's website

Insider’s Take

This card is a terrific choice if you stay with Hilton, even occasionally. It balances excellent benefits, including Gold elite status and 10 airport lounge visits per year, with a modest annual fee. And while it doesn't come with an automatic free night certificate on your account anniversary, you can earn one by spending $15,000 on the card in a year.

Details

Rewards

Earn 12x Points on hotels & resorts at eligible purchases at hotels and resorts in the Hilton portfolio. Earn 6x Points on dining at restaurants worldwide, and for takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 6x Points on groceries at U.S. supermarkets. Earn 6x Points on gas at U.S. gas stations. Earn 3X Points on all other purchases

Intro offer

130,000 points after spending $2,000 in eligible purchases on the card in the first 3 months of card membership

Recommended Credit

Good to Excellent

Regular APR

18.74% - 27.74% Variable

Pros & Cons

Check mark iconA check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction.

High welcome bonus

Check mark iconA check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction.

Complimentary Hilton Gold elite status

Check mark iconA check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction.

Generous bonus categories for earning points

Dash iconA dash. It often indicates an interaction to shrink a section.

Weekend night reward requires spending $15,000 on the card in a year

Dash iconA dash. It often indicates an interaction to shrink a section.

Not much in the way of complimentary benefits beyond Hilton Gold status

Highlights

• The information related to the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card has been collected by Business Insider and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer.
• Earn 130,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 3 months of Card Membership.
• Earn a Weekend Night Reward from Hilton Honors after you spend $15,000 on purchases on your Card in a calendar year.
• Earn 12X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
• Earn 6X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases on your Card at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
• Earn 3X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
• Spend $40,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn Hilton Honors Diamond status through the end of the next calendar year.
• $95 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.

Additional Reading

The Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card does not come with a full-fledged Priority Pass airport lounge membership. Instead, you'll get 10 free visits per year. You can choose to use your 10 entries for yourself and for guests. For example, if you and a guest enter a lounge five times, you'll have exhausted your 10 Priority Pass visits for the year. 

This is an excellent way to become familiar with the Priority Pass network. The Amex Hilton Surpass charges a $95 annual fee — far more digestible than other cards on this list.

You'll also receive:

• Hilton Gold elite status
• Upgrade to Diamond status after you spend $40,000 on eligible purchases in a calendar year
• Free weekend night certificate after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases in a calendar year

As a first-time cardmember, you'll even earn 130,000 points after spending $2,000 in eligible purchases on the card in the first 3 months of card membership.

Review: Hilton Honors American Express Surpass review

United℠ Explorer Card

Intro offer

50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Rewards

Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, hotel stays, and United® purchases and 1 mile per $1 spent on all other eligible purchases.

$0 intro for the first year, then $95

Annual Fee

Intro offer

50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Rewards

Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, hotel stays, and United® purchases and 1 mile per $1 spent on all other eligible purchases.

$0 intro for the first year, then $95

Annual Fee

$0 intro for the first year, then $95

Annual Fee

On Chase's website

United℠ Explorer Card

Insider’s Take

The United Explorer card is the best all-around credit card for United flyers, offering a generous range of benefits for a modest annual fee. Cardholders receive a free checked bag, priority boarding, and inflight discounts on United flights, plus two one-time United Club airport lounge passes each year.

Details

Rewards

Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, hotel stays, and United® purchases and 1 mile per $1 spent on all other eligible purchases.

Annual Fee

$0 intro for the first year, then $95

Intro offer

50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Recommended Credit

Good to Excellent

Regular APR

19.49% - 26.49% Variable

Pros & Cons

Check mark iconA check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction.

Annual fee is waived the first year

Check mark iconA check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction.

Earns bonus miles on several purchase categories, including dining

Check mark iconA check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction.

Includes an application fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck

Check mark iconA check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction.

Gets you a free checked bag on United when you pay with the card

Dash iconA dash. It often indicates an interaction to shrink a section.

Not the most rewarding card for most non-United travel purchases

Highlights

• Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.
• $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $95.
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, hotel stays, and United® purchases
• Up to $100 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS fee credit
• 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Explorer Card
• Free first checked bags - a savings of up to $140 per roundtrip. Terms Apply.
• Enjoy priority boarding privileges and visit the United ClubSM with 2 one-time passes each year for your anniversary
• Get one-year complimentary DashPass, a membership for both DoorDash and Caviar that provides unlimited deliveries with $0 delivery fees and lower service fees on eligible orders. After that, you are automatically enrolled in DashPass at the current monthly rate. Activate by 12/31/24.

Additional Reading

The United℠ Explorer Card allows you to get a feel for airline lounges instead of Priority Pass. Each cardmember year, you'll receive two single-use passes to United Club lounges. These day passes often cost $59 each.

The best part? The United℠ Explorer Card comes with an annual fee of $0 intro for the first year, then $95. In other words, you can try these lounges without having to pay a dime the first year. If you don't like the card, you can cancel when your first annual fee comes due.

This card also offers:

• Free first checked bag on United flights (when you pay for your fare with the card)
• Priority boarding on United flights
• NEXUS, Global Entry, or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
• Complimentary Premier upgrades
• Expanded access to United award flights

Its welcome bonus offer is 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Read more: United Explorer card review

Credit cards with airport lounge access frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Amex Centurion Lounges are at the following airports:

1. Charlotte (CLT), between Concourse D and E
2. Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Terminal D
3. Denver (DEN), Concourse C
4. Houston (IAH), Terminal D
5. Las Vegas (LAS), Concourse D
6. Los Angeles (LAX), Tom Bradley International Terminal
7. Miami (MIA), Concourse D
8. New York (JFK), Terminal 4
9. New York (LGA), Terminal B, post-security
10. Philadelphia (PHL), Terminal A
11. Phoenix (PHX), Terminal 4
12. San Francisco (SFO), Terminal 3
13. Seattle (SEA), Concourse B
14. Hong Kong (HKG), Terminal 1
15. London (LHR), Terminal 3

There are also high-quality American Express Lounges internationally which you can browse here.

Priority Pass lounges aren't always crowded, but they all tend to have a busy period which varies depending on the airport. The danger in visiting during peak hours is that you may actually be turned away. Lounges have limited capacity, after all.

If you want to see when a lounge is busy, you can simply google the name of the lounge along with the airport. You should see a graphic on the right side indicating the historical foot traffic of the lounge.

The Platinum Card® from American Express is the all-around best credit card for airport lounge access. Amex Platinum cards offer the most privileges of any travel credit card — from Centurion Lounge access to Delta Sky Club access (when flying Delta) to Priority Pass membership.

Unfortunately, there isn't a no-annual-fee card that also offers airport lounge access. However, the United℠ Explorer Card offers two United Club lounge day passes each anniversary year. Its annual fee is $0 intro for the first year, then $95, so you can experience a lounge or two without committing to a big annual fee.

Joseph Hostetler, CEPF

Credit cards reporter

Joseph Hostetler is a credit cards reporter for Insider who also covers helpful miles and points tricks. He is also a Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF). Joseph has more than five years of experience writing professionally about credit cards, previously authoring and editing for The Points Guy and Million Mile Secrets.  You can reach Joseph at . Learn more about how Personal Finance Insider chooses, rates, and covers financial products and services »

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