Key Takeaways:
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The Chase Sapphire Reserve® card provides unlimited access to Chase Sapphire Lounges and over 1,300 Priority Pass lounges, making it the best option for frequent travelers.
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While the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card offers occasional lounge promotions, most other Chase cards do not provide direct lounge access.
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Pairing cards like the Chase Freedom Unlimited® with Chase Sapphire Reserve® helps boost points accumulation, enhancing travel benefits and lounge access options.
For frequent flyers and those who prefer a little luxury during their travels, having access to an airport lounge can make a world of difference.
Think comfy chairs, free snacks, premium drinks, and a place to unwind away from the chaos of the airport terminal.
Chase, one of the leading credit card issuers in the United States, has jumped into the lounge game, offering its own Chase Lounges at select airports.
So, which Chase credit cards can get you access to these coveted spots? Let’s dive into the world of Chase credit card lounge access and find out which cards you need in your wallet to enjoy these perks.
Chase Credit Card Airport Lounge Access: The Basics
Chase Lounges are a recent and exciting addition to the airport lounge scene. These lounges are part of the Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club network, designed to provide premium experiences for Chase cardholders. The idea is simple: create exclusive, relaxing spaces for travelers to escape the usual airport madness, all while holding a Chase credit card.
Now, before you start daydreaming about sipping cocktails and enjoying gourmet snacks, it’s important to know that not every Chase credit card offers lounge access. In fact, Chase credit card airport lounge access is reserved for those who carry specific cards, particularly from the Chase Sapphire line.
Top Chase Credit Cards with Lounge Access
While many Chase credit cards offer great rewards and benefits, not all of them provide access to airport lounges. Below, we outline the Chase credit cards with lounge access that can get you into Chase Lounges and other lounges worldwide.
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Chase Sapphire Reserve®
When it comes to Chase credit card lounge access, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is the clear front-runner. As a premium travel credit card, it provides not only access to Chase Lounges but also to a wide network of other lounges through the Priority Pass Select membership.
- Lounge Access Perks: Unlimited access to Chase Sapphire Lounges and over 1,300 Priority Pass lounges worldwide for the cardholder and two guests.
- Annual Fee: annual_fees
- Welcome Offer: bonus_miles_full
- Other Benefits: $300 annual travel credit, 3x points on travel and dining, comprehensive travel insurance, and access to exclusive events.
Why It’s a Winner: The Chase Sapphire Reserve is the most comprehensive Chase credit card with lounge access benefits. With this card, you can visit Chase credit card airport lounges and other lounges worldwide, giving you flexibility and comfort regardless of where you travel.
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Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card might not directly offer free lounge access like its sibling, the Reserve, but it still plays a role in the lounge game. Occasionally, Chase provides Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card cardholders with limited-time offers that may include a complimentary lounge visit or a discounted pass.
- Annual Fee: annual_fees
- Welcome Offer: bonus_miles_full
- Other Benefits: 2x points on travel and dining, 25% more value when points are redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards, travel insurance.
Why Consider It? If you’re not quite ready to commit to the Sapphire Reserve’s higher annual fee, the Preferred can be a good starting point. Plus, the points you earn can be transferred to the Reserve if you decide to upgrade later.
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Chase Freedom Unlimited®
While the Chase Freedom Unlimited® does not provide direct lounge access, it’s an excellent card for earning points that you can transfer to a Chase Sapphire Reserve® or Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card It’s more of a “build-your-points arsenal” type of card than a direct pass to a lounge, but it works well in combination with the Sapphire cards.
- Annual Fee: annual_fees
- Welcome Offer: bonus_miles_full
- Earning Rates: 5% on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3% on dining and drugstore purchases, and 1.5% on all other purchases.
Why Add It? It’s a great companion card that helps you earn more points to redeem for travel, including lounge access benefits when pooled with other Chase cards.
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United℠ Explorer Card
The United℠ Explorer Card might be a curveball on this list, but hear me out. If you frequently fly United Airlines, this card offers two United Club one-time passes per year, which can be handy when flying through an airport with a United lounge. While it doesn’t provide direct Chase credit card lounge access, it’s still valuable for lounge lovers.
- Annual Fee: annual_fees
- Welcome Offer: bonus_miles_full
- Lounge Access Perk: Two United Club passes per year.
Why It’s Not a Bad Choice: If you’re a United loyalist, this card provides a decent middle ground without committing to a high annual fee.
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The Platinum Card® from American Express
Okay, I know this isn’t a Chase card, but if you’re all about lounge access, it deserves an honorable mention. The The Platinum Card® from American Express is known for its extensive lounge access benefits, including Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass, and Delta Sky Clubs. While it doesn’t get you into Chase Lounges, it covers a lot of other premium lounges.
- Annual Fee: annual_fees
- Welcome Bonus: bonus_miles_full
- Lounge Access Perks: Access to Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta), and more.
Why It’s Here: If you’re a frequent traveler who values lounge access above all else, you might consider complementing your Chase card with the Amex Platinum.
Other Chase Credit Cards Without Lounge Access
Now, you might be thinking, “Does every Chase credit card come with lounge access?” Unfortunately, the answer is no. While Chase offers a variety of fantastic cards, such as the Chase Freedom Flex® and Chase Slate Edge℠, these cards focus more on cash back, balance transfers, or building credit rather than offering lounge access perks. However, they can still play a supporting role in earning points when paired with a Chase Sapphire card.
Why Choose a Chase Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access?
So, why go with a Chase card for lounge access? A few reasons stand out:
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Exclusive Access to Chase Sapphire Lounges
Only Chase Sapphire Reserve® cardholders can access these lounges, ensuring a more exclusive experience compared to some other lounge networks.
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Flexibility and Convenience
With access to Chase Lounges and the larger Priority Pass network, you can find a lounge at most major airports worldwide, providing a consistent, comfortable experience regardless of where you are.
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Maximize Travel Rewards
Chase cards, particularly those in the Sapphire family, offer some of the best earning rates and redemption options for travelers. Points can be transferred to various airline and hotel partners, giving you flexibility in how you use your rewards.
Tips for Maximizing Your Chase Credit Card Airport Lounge Access
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Combine and Conquer
Pair your Chase Sapphire Reserve® with a Chase Freedom Unlimited® to maximize your point-earning potential.
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Stay Updated on Offers
Occasionally, Chase offers special promotions or limited-time access for non-Reserve cardholders. Keep an eye out for these opportunities.
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Know Your Guest Policies
If you’re traveling with family or friends, know the guest policy for the lounges you plan to visit to avoid any surprises.
Bottom Line
When it comes to Chase credit card airport lounge access, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is undoubtedly the card to beat.
With its combination of exclusive Chase Lounge access, Priority Pass membership, and strong travel rewards, it offers the best value for frequent travelers looking for comfort and luxury at the airport.
If the high annual fee isn’t in your budget, starting with the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or even a Chase Freedom Unlimited® can help you build points and consider future upgrades.
So, next time you find yourself stuck in an airport, remember that your Chase credit card could be the golden ticket to a much more pleasant experience. Just flash that Chase Sapphire Reserve® at the lounge entrance, grab a drink, and put your feet up — because you deserve it!