Lounge Access Gets a Price Tag: Credit Cards Charge for Companion Entry
Lounge access has become a premium perk for travelers, and some credit cards are offering authorized user access to airport lounges. The Global Lounge Collection offers lounge entry for cardholders and their companions, but at an additional cost. American Express Platinum and Business Platinum Cards charge $195 and $400 per authorized user respectively, while Chase Sapphire Reserve charges $195 per user.
Citi AAdvantage Executive and Delta Reserve cards also allow companion entry under defined conditions. Cardholders must enroll and meet eligibility rules; some require same-day boarding passes. The annual fees for these cards range from $395 to $895, with additional user costs adding to the total expense over time.
Lounge overcrowding has led issuers to restrict free guest access, pushing travelers toward paid authorized user slots. Without authorized user access, guests may be denied entry even if the primary cardholder is eligible, limiting flexibility during peak travel times.