Top Credit Cards with Priority Pass Lounge Access
Overview
Traveling can often be a stressful experience, from long queues at security to crowded waiting areas. However, one of the best ways to enhance your travel experience is by gaining access to luxury airport lounges. Priority Pass, a global network of airport lounges, is a popular choice for frequent flyers. Many premium credit cards offer complimentary access to Priority Pass lounges, providing comfort and convenience during your travels. In this article by Academic Block, we’ll explore the top credit cards offering Priority Pass lounge access, highlighting their benefits, eligibility requirements, and how they can make your journey more enjoyable.
What is Priority Pass?
Priority Pass is a global airport lounge access program that provides members with access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide. These lounges offer a quiet, comfortable space to relax before your flight, complete with amenities like free Wi-Fi, snacks, beverages, comfortable seating, and even showers. Priority Pass membership can be purchased individually, but many premium credit cards include this benefit as part of their rewards program.
Benefits of Priority Pass Lounge Access
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Comfortable Environment : Airport lounges provide a calm, quiet place to rest, away from the hustle and bustle of crowded terminals.
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Complimentary Amenities : Enjoy free snacks, drinks, and sometimes even meals, along with other services like showers and business facilities.
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Wi-Fi and Charging Stations : Stay connected with free Wi-Fi and access charging stations for your electronic devices.
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Access to Premium Lounges Worldwide : Priority Pass grants access to lounges at major airports across the globe, making it easier to find a comfortable space no matter where you’re traveling.
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Escape the Crowds : Avoid the chaos of crowded airport seating areas and enjoy a more peaceful, relaxed atmosphere.
Top Credit Cards Offering Priority Pass Lounge Access
1. Chase Sapphire Reserve®
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Annual Fee : $550
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Priority Pass Access : Unlimited access for the cardholder and up to two guests.
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Why It’s Great : The Chase Sapphire Reserve® card is a top contender for travelers who prioritize luxury and perks. Along with Priority Pass lounge access, it offers a host of other benefits, including 3x points on travel and dining, a $300 annual travel credit, and comprehensive travel insurance coverage.
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Eligibility : Excellent credit score required (usually 700+).
2. The Platinum Card® from American Express
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Annual Fee : $695
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Priority Pass Access : Access for the cardholder and up to two guests.
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Why It’s Great : Known for offering one of the most prestigious credit card experiences, The Platinum Card® from American Express provides access to Priority Pass lounges and a range of other luxury travel perks. These include access to Centurion Lounges, extensive travel credits, and 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels booked through American Express Travel.
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Eligibility : Excellent credit score required (usually 700+).
3. Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
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Annual Fee : $450
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Priority Pass Access : Access for the cardholder and up to two guests.
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Why It’s Great : This card is perfect for American Airlines frequent flyers. In addition to Priority Pass access, cardholders receive special benefits with American Airlines, including preferred boarding and a free checked bag. It also offers 2x miles on American Airlines purchases and other travel-related purchases.
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Eligibility : Good to excellent credit score (usually 700+).
4. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
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Annual Fee : $95
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Priority Pass Access : Access for the cardholder and two guests.
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Why It’s Great : The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is an affordable choice for travelers who want to enjoy Priority Pass lounge access without a high annual fee. In addition, it offers 2x miles on every purchase and a 5,000-mile bonus when you use the card for a hotel stay.
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Eligibility : Good credit score required (usually 700+).
5. Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card
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Annual Fee : $450
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Priority Pass Access : Access for the cardholder and up to two guests.
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Why It’s Great : A standout option for Hilton loyalists, this card provides great rewards, including 14x points on Hilton hotel stays, 7x points on flights booked directly with airlines, and 3x points on other travel purchases. Additionally, the card comes with access to Priority Pass lounges, making it a great card for those who travel often.
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Eligibility : Excellent credit score required (usually 700+).
6. U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite® Card
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Annual Fee : $400
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Priority Pass Access : Access for the cardholder and up to two guests.
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Why It’s Great : This card offers a range of benefits, including 3x points on travel and mobile wallet purchases, as well as complimentary Priority Pass access. It also provides a $325 annual travel credit, which can offset the annual fee.
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Eligibility : Excellent credit score required (usually 700+).
7. Mastercard® Black Card™
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Annual Fee : $495
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Priority Pass Access : Access for the cardholder and up to two guests.
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Why It’s Great : Known for its sleek design and premium perks, the Mastercard® Black Card™ offers access to Priority Pass lounges as well as 2% value back on airfare and 1.5% back on all other purchases. It also provides concierge service, exclusive travel benefits, and a range of luxurious offers.
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Eligibility : Excellent credit score required (usually 700+).
8. Bank of America® Premium Rewards Elite Credit Card
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Annual Fee : $550
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Priority Pass Access : Unlimited access for the cardholder and up to two guests.
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Why It’s Great : The Bank of America® Premium Rewards Elite Credit Card is a strong contender in the premium travel card space. It offers Priority Pass lounge access along with 2x points on travel and dining and 1.5x points on all other purchases. With its up to $300 airline incidental credit and versatile reward redemption options, this card is perfect for frequent travelers looking for flexibility.
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Eligibility : Excellent credit score required (usually 700+).
How to Choose a Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access
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Travel Frequency : If you travel often, especially internationally, you may benefit from a credit card offering Priority Pass or other lounge networks like LoungeKey. Cards offering unlimited access are ideal for frequent flyers.
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Annual Fee : Cards with lounge access usually come with higher annual fees. Ensure the benefits, including lounge access, rewards, and other travel perks, justify the cost. Budget-friendly options also offer lounge access, but with fewer benefits.
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Additional Travel Benefits : Look for cards that offer extra perks such as miles or points on travel purchases, travel insurance, or concierge services. These added benefits can enhance your travel experience.
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Guest Access : Check the card’s lounge access policy. Some cards offer free guest access, while others may charge a fee.
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Credit Score & Eligibility : Most cards require good to excellent credit, so check your credit score before applying.
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Lounge Network : Ensure the card provides access to lounges at your most frequent airports. Some cards also offer exclusive lounge access to American Express Centurion Lounges or other networks.
How to Enroll in Priority Pass with Eligible Credit Cards
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Check Your Card’s Benefits : Review the card’s benefits guide or website to confirm that Priority Pass membership is included.
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Visit the Issuer’s Enrollment Website : Many credit card issuers provide a special enrollment link. Simply visit their website and log in to your account.
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Complete the Enrollment Process : Fill out the required details and submit your request. You may be asked to choose between different membership levels (Standard, Standard Plus, or Prestige).
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Receive Your Priority Pass Card : After enrolling, you’ll receive a Priority Pass membership card by mail or digitally. Use this card to gain access to participating lounges.
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Start Enjoying Lounge Access : Now you’re ready to relax in Priority Pass lounges at airports around the world! Simply show your card or digital membership for entry.
How to Apply for a Credit Card with Priority Pass Access
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Check Your Credit Score : Before applying, check your credit score to ensure it meets the requirements of the card you’re interested in.
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Review the Benefits : Make sure the card’s benefits, including Priority Pass access, align with your travel needs and spending habits.
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Apply Online : Most credit card issuers offer easy online applications. Simply visit the issuer’s website, fill out the application form, and submit it for review.
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Enjoy Your Perks : Once approved, you’ll receive your credit card, and you can begin enjoying Priority Pass lounge access along with other travel benefits.
Final Words
For frequent travelers, a credit card offering Priority Pass lounge access is an excellent way to enhance the travel experience. The top credit cards on the market, including the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, The Platinum Card® from American Express, and others, provide exclusive access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, helping you relax and recharge before your flight. When choosing a card, consider factors like annual fees, guest access, and additional travel benefits to find the one that best fits your needs. Before Leaving, share your views in the comment section to make this article better, Thanks for Reading!
This Article will answer your questions like:
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® card provides complimentary Priority Pass Select membership, offering access to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide. Cardholders enjoy premium benefits such as access to both lounge locations and priority services, ensuring a more comfortable and efficient travel experience. This benefit is valuable for frequent travelers seeking luxury and convenience while traveling.
To gain free access to Priority Pass lounges, you can obtain a membership through specific credit cards such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® or the Platinum Card® from American Express. These cards offer complimentary Priority Pass memberships that grant access to numerous lounges worldwide. Be sure to check the terms and conditions to confirm access eligibility and any potential additional charges for guests.
American Express offers Priority Pass access through several of its premium cards, including the Platinum Card® and the Business Platinum Card®. These cards grant cardholders access to over 1,300 airport lounges globally. This perk can significantly enhance the travel experience by offering quiet spaces to relax, work, or enjoy complimentary services while waiting for flights.
To receive a Chase Priority Pass, you must hold the Chase Sapphire Reserve® credit card. This card offers complimentary Priority Pass Select membership, which provides access to more than 1,000 airport lounges worldwide. After approval, you can activate your membership and start enjoying lounge access immediately, benefiting from amenities like free food, beverages, and a relaxing environment at various airports.
Priority Pass membership typically comes in three tiers: Standard, Standard Plus, and Prestige. The Standard membership costs around $99 per year and charges a fee for each lounge visit. The Standard Plus membership is approximately $299 annually, offering ten free visits. The Prestige membership costs about $429 per year, granting unlimited access to lounges. Some credit cards offer complimentary memberships, reducing these costs significantly.
Priority Pass provides free lounge access to members depending on their membership level. For example, cardholders of premium credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and American Express Platinum cards enjoy complimentary lounge access. However, certain membership tiers, such as the Standard membership, may require a fee per visit. It’s essential to review the specific benefits attached to your membership to determine access costs.
Yes, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers complimentary Priority Pass membership. This benefit allows cardholders to access over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, providing a convenient space to relax, eat, or work while traveling. Additionally, the card includes unlimited access to Capital One Lounges, which further enhances its value for frequent flyers seeking an elevated travel experience.
The best credit cards for airport lounge access include the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and the American Express Platinum Card®. Both cards offer complimentary Priority Pass membership, providing access to over 1,000 lounges globally. These cards also offer additional perks such as earning rewards on travel expenses, providing a comprehensive solution for frequent travelers seeking comfort and convenience in airport lounges.
Priority Pass membership provides access to over 1,300 lounges worldwide, where travelers can relax, enjoy free food and beverages, and use business services. Members also benefit from discounts on additional services like spa treatments and premium Wi-Fi. With three membership tiers—Standard, Standard Plus, and Prestige—Priority Pass ensures flexible access based on individual needs and travel frequency, making it ideal for frequent flyers and business travelers.
To get Priority Pass with the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, you need to activate your complimentary Priority Pass Select membership after receiving your card. The membership will grant you access to more than 1,000 lounges worldwide. Once activated, you can start enjoying the lounges and their amenities, including complimentary food, beverages, and quiet spaces to work or relax while traveling.
The best and most affordable credit card with Priority Pass access is the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card. With a reasonable annual fee, it offers complimentary Priority Pass membership, granting access to over 1,300 airport lounges globally. This card provides excellent value for frequent travelers seeking premium airport amenities without the high cost typically associated with luxury travel cards.
Priority Pass Select membership provides access to over 1,300 lounges worldwide, including those at major airports. Additional benefits include access to airport restaurants, discounted spa treatments, and premium services such as business facilities and Wi-Fi. Members can also bring guests for an additional fee, making it ideal for frequent travelers and business professionals seeking comfort and relaxation during transit.
The American Express Platinum Card® provides the most comprehensive airport lounge access. Cardholders can enjoy access to over 1,300 lounges through Priority Pass, along with additional access to American Express Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta), and more. This wide-ranging access makes it one of the best cards for travelers seeking luxurious and convenient lounge experiences worldwide.
To receive an American Express Priority Pass number, you must hold a premium American Express card such as the Platinum Card® or Business Platinum Card®. Once your card is activated, you can enroll in the Priority Pass Select program via your American Express online account. After activation, you will receive your Priority Pass membership card, which will grant access to lounges worldwide.
Yes, there is a difference between Priority Pass and Priority Pass Select. Priority Pass is the standard membership, which allows access to lounges on a pay-per-visit basis. Priority Pass Select, however, is a premium membership that offers complimentary access to lounges and other amenities. Priority Pass Select is typically provided through premium credit cards, making it more beneficial for frequent travelers seeking exclusive benefits.
Priority Pass benefits linked to credit cards can significantly enhance family travel experiences. Many premium cards, such as the American Express Platinum or Chase Sapphire Reserve, offer complimentary access to over 1,300 airport lounges. Depending on the card, members may be allowed to bring one or more guests for free or for a small fee. This ensures that families can enjoy comfortable waiting areas, relax with amenities, and avoid the stress of crowded airports during their travels.