Unlock Premium Travel Perks: Credit Cards Offering United Club Access in 2024

You can buy an annual membership. However, this could cost you anywhere from $650 to $700 per year, depending on your MileagePlus status. Not cheap, but if you’re a frequent traveler, it might be worth the investment.

International passengers flying in United Polaris business class or Star Alliance first or business class can enjoy complimentary access. Domestic first-class passengers, however, aren’t so lucky.

You can purchase a one-time United Club Lounge access pass for around $59 at select locations, but this is only useful for occasional travelers.

This is where things get interesting. The most convenient and cost-effective way for many people to get into the United Club is through a credit card with United Club access. This method offers more value and additional perks, making it an attractive option for frequent travelers.

• Annual Fee: annual_fees
• Key Benefits: Complimentary United Club membership, 4x miles on United purchases, 2x miles on dining and travel, two free checked bags, and priority boarding.
• Welcome Offer: bonus_miles_full
• APR: reg_apr,reg_apr_type

The United Club℠ Infinite Card is the only credit card that grants unlimited United Club lounge access for the cardholder and eligible travel companions. 

If you fly with United frequently and appreciate the comfort and convenience of their lounges, this card pays for itself in the long run, especially when you consider the high cost of an annual membership.

The added perks like priority boarding and free checked bags make it an all-around great choice for frequent United flyers.

• Annual Fee: annual_fees
• Key Benefits: Two United Club one-time passes each year, priority boarding, free first checked bag, and 2x miles on United purchases, dining, and hotel stays.
• Welcome Offer: bonus_miles_full
• APR: reg_apr,reg_apr_type

While the United℠ Explorer Card doesn’t offer unlimited access, it does provide two United Club passes annually. This is perfect for the occasional traveler who might not need constant lounge access but wants the option a couple of times a year. 

With a reasonable annual fee after the first year, this card packs a punch with other perks like priority boarding and a free checked bag.

• Annual Fee: annual_fees
• Key Benefits: Two United Club one-time passes annually, 2x miles on United purchases, dining, gas stations, and office supply stores, free first checked bag, and priority boarding.
• Welcome Offer: bonus_miles_full
• APR: reg_apr,reg_apr_type

The United℠ Business Card is geared toward business travelers who want some extra benefits when flying United. Similar to the Explorer Card, it provides two United Club passes each year, allowing access for occasional travelers. 

The additional earning potential on business-related expenses like dining and gas stations adds more value.

• Annual Fee: annual_fees
• Key Benefits: 3x points on travel and dining, $300 annual travel credit, Priority Pass Select membership, and 50% more points value when booking through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
• Welcome Offer: bonus_miles_full
• APR: reg_apr,reg_apr_type

While the Chase Sapphire Reserve® does not directly provide United Club access with a credit card, it comes with a Priority Pass Select membership, which offers access to over 1,300 lounges worldwide. 

This includes some affiliated lounges that may suffice when flying United, though not the actual United Clubs. With broad travel benefits and high reward-earning rates, this card is excellent for travelers who want flexibility beyond United-specific perks.

• Annual Fee: annual_fees
• Key Benefits: Access to Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass Select membership, Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta), 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or Amex Travel, up to $200 airline fee credit.
• Welcome Offer: bonus_miles_full
• APR: reg_apr,reg_apr_type

The Platinum Card® from American Express is a strong choice for frequent travelers who aren’t loyal to one airline. While it doesn’t offer United Club access, the Priority Pass Select membership and access to Amex’s luxurious Centurion Lounges provide a high level of flexibility. It’s ideal for those who might fly United occasionally but also want top-notch perks across multiple airlines.

Ranges from $650 to $700 based on your MileagePlus status.

$59 per visit, available at select locations.

These vary from $95 (after the first year) for the United Explorer Card to $550 for the United Club Infinite Card.

Many cards come with generous sign-up bonuses that can significantly offset travel costs. Use these bonuses for free flights or upgrades.

Don’t forget about priority boarding, free checked bags, and other travel benefits that come with these cards. These can save you both time and money.

If your card comes with limited lounge passes, plan your trips and lounge visits carefully to maximize your benefits.