Airport Lounge Access
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Traveling with your family can be a lot of fun, but let’s face it—airports can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with long lines, crowded terminals, and the chaos of last-minute flight changes.
That’s where airport lounge access comes in. These exclusive spaces offer a peaceful retreat with comfortable seating, free snacks, Wi-Fi, and sometimes kid-friendly amenities like play zones. But how can you ensure that your entire family enjoys lounge access, not just the primary cardholder?
Below, we’ll explore the best travel credit cards for families with lounge access benefits and step-by-step instructions on accessing and maximizing them.
1. The Platinum Card® from American Express
Lounge Access
The Platinum Card® from American Express offers an unparalleled collection of airport lounges globally, known as the American Express Global Lounge Collection. This includes access to:
- 1,400+ airport lounges worldwide, including Priority Pass lounges (when enrolled).
- Amex Centurion Lounges, the most luxurious airport lounges available.
- Delta Sky Club lounges (only when flying Delta).
- Select Virgin Clubhouses and Escape Lounges.
- Plaza Premium Lounges and more.
This makes it one of the most comprehensive credit cards for lounge access.
Family Access
- The primary cardholder can bring up to two additional guests, but there is a fee to be aware of, making it more than likely not worth it for many families.
- Children under 2 are generally allowed free entry into most lounges.
Family-Friendly Lounge Amenities
Amex Centurion Lounges, in particular, offer some family-friendly amenities, such as:
- Children’s play areas with interactive games and toys to keep the little ones entertained.
- Quiet zones for families who want some downtime before their flight.
- Healthy snack options that are appealing to both adults and kids.
- Lactation rooms for nursing mothers, ensuring privacy and comfort.
How to Use Lounge Access with Amex Platinum
- Sign up for Priority Pass and activate your lounge access with the card.
- When arriving at a lounge, show your Platinum Card® and your ID for entry.
- If traveling with additional guests, you can bring up to two guests for free (any additional guests will incur a fee).
2. Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Lounge Access
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers excellent lounge access, including:
- Priority Pass Lounge Access (access to over 1,300 lounges worldwide).
- Access to Capital One Lounges and Plaza Premium Lounges for even more options.
Family Access
- The primary cardholder can bring up to two additional guests into the lounge for free.
- Authorized users can be added to your account at no additional cost, extending the benefit to your entire family.
Family-Friendly Lounge Amenities
- Capital One Lounges are known for their comfortable, family-friendly atmosphere with spacious seating areas and a quiet ambiance.
- Some lounges offer family-style seating and dining areas where families can sit together and enjoy meals before their flight.
- Plaza Premium Lounges are also equipped with shower rooms, which can be a lifesaver for families with young children or long layovers.
How to Use Lounge Access with Capital One
- Activate your Priority Pass membership when you receive your Capital One Venture X card.
- Add authorized users to your account for free and bring them into lounges.
- Check for available Capital One Lounges at select airports and enjoy access for you and your guests.
3. Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
Lounge Access
The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card offers excellent lounge access benefits, especially for families flying with Delta.
- Complimentary access to Delta Sky Club lounges when flying Delta.
- Amex Centurion Lounges access and Escape Lounges.
Family Access
- The primary cardholder can bring up to two additional guests for $50 per person.
- Children under 2 can enter for free.
Family-Friendly Lounge Amenities
- Delta Sky Clubs often provide kid-friendly amenities like video games or family-friendly entertainment options in some locations.
- Some Sky Clubs feature family restrooms, which can be a great place to change diapers or take a break from the busy terminal.
- Sky Clubs also offer snacks and beverages that appeal to children, including fruit, yogurt, and a selection of child-friendly items.
How to Use Lounge Access with Delta SkyMiles Reserve
- Activate access to Delta Sky Club with your SkyMiles® Reserve card.
- When traveling on Delta, you and your guests can access Delta Sky Clubs by showing your SkyMiles® Reserve Card.
- For additional guests, you’ll need to pay a $50 fee per person.
4. The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
Lounge Access
The Business Platinum Card® offers the same exceptional access as the personal Platinum card:
- 1,400+ lounges via the American Express Global Lounge Collection.
- Delta Sky Club lounges, Virgin Clubhouses, Plaza Premium Lounges, plus the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges.
Family Access
- The primary cardholder.
- Authorized users on the card enjoy the same access benefits.
Family-Friendly Lounge Amenities
- Amex Centurion Lounges provide excellent facilities like family suites or dedicated family seating areas where parents can relax while kids enjoy interactive games.
- Some lounges offer specialty menus for younger travelers, including child-friendly meals like mac ‘n cheese and fruit cups.
- Many lounges offer quiet rooms or nap pods to help the whole family recharge before flights.
How to Use Lounge Access with Business Platinum
- Activate your lounge access upon receiving your Business Platinum card.
- Show your card to access lounges, bringing your guests with you.
5. Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card
Lounge Access
This card is perfect for business travelers flying Delta, as it offers:
- Delta Sky Club lounges when traveling on a Delta flight.
- Amex Centurion Lounges and Escape Lounges access.
Family Access
- The primary cardholder can access lounges for themselves, but they must pay a fee to bring guests.
- Guests are charged $50 per person (children under 2 are free).
Family-Friendly Lounge Amenities
- Delta Sky Clubs offer child-friendly areas, like interactive touch screens or small TV sections where children can unwind.
- Some Centurion Lounges include quiet corners and private play areas for children, ensuring a calm experience for the entire family.
How to Use Lounge Access with Delta SkyMiles Business Card
- Activate your lounge access upon receiving the card.
- If you’re traveling with guests, you’ll need to pay the $50 guest fee for each additional person.
Tips for Maximizing Lounge Access for Families
To ensure your family gets the most out of your lounge access benefits, follow these helpful tips:
1. Add Authorized Users
Many cards, like the Capital One Venture X and American Express Platinum, allow you to add authorized users to your account at no additional cost (or a small fee). This lets your entire family enjoy lounge access privileges.
2. Check Lounge Policies
Some lounges may have guest restrictions or additional fees, so it’s essential to check the lounge’s guest access policies before your trip. For example, some lounges only allow you to bring guests for free if they are flying with you on the same airline.
3. Enjoy Family-Friendly Lounges
Look for lounges that offer amenities specifically designed for families, like play areas for children, family seating, or kid-friendly dining options. These can help make your travel day less stressful and more enjoyable for everyone.
4. Plan Ahead for Peak Travel Times
During busy travel periods, lounges may be crowded or have waitlists. Plan to arrive early to ensure you and your family have access to a comfortable spot to relax before your flight.
Final Thoughts
Having access to airport lounges can dramatically improve your family’s travel experience by providing a peaceful and comfortable environment during long waits or layovers. By choosing the right credit cards that offer lounge access, you can ensure that everyone in your household gets the benefits they deserve.
Capital One, Chase, and American Express all offer incredible travel cards that can make family trips smoother and less stressful. So, if you want to transform your travel experience, look into one of these credit cards and start enjoying lounge access with your family today!
Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
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