Best Affordable Authorized User Credit Cards in the USA for Lounge Access

Unlock Exclusive Airport Lounge Benefits Without Breaking the Bank

Key Takeaways

Comprehensive Lounge Access: Many affordable credit cards offer extensive lounge access for authorized users at little or no additional cost.
Cost-Effective Authorized User Benefits: Selecting the right card can significantly reduce per-user costs while enhancing travel experiences.
Additional Perks: Beyond lounge access, these cards provide valuable travel credits, points, and other benefits to maximize overall value.

Comprehensive Rankings of Affordable Credit Cards for Authorized User Lounge Access

When it comes to securing lounge access for both primary cardholders and authorized users, affordability and additional perks play a crucial role. Below is an in-depth ranking of the best affordable authorized user credit cards in the USA for lounge access, based on annual fees, authorized user costs, lounge access benefits, and additional perks.

1. Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card stands out as the top choice for affordable lounge access, offering robust benefits for both primary cardholders and authorized users.

Annual Fee: $395 for the primary cardholder.
Authorized User Fee: $0 for up to four authorized users.
Lounge Access:
- Unlimited visits to Capital One Lounges.
- Priority Pass Select membership for all authorized users.
- Access to select Plaza Premium Lounges.
Additional Perks:
- $300 annual travel credit directly offsets the annual fee.
- 10,000 bonus miles awarded every account anniversary, equivalent to $100 in travel.
- No additional cost for authorized users enhances overall value.
Why It’s Affordable: The combination of a manageable annual fee and no additional costs for authorized users makes this card a high-value option for families and frequent travelers alike.

2. Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a premium option that offers exceptional lounge access benefits, particularly valuable when considering the cost-effectiveness provided by its $300 annual travel credit.

Annual Fee: $550 for the primary cardholder.
Authorized User Fee: $75 per authorized user annually.
Lounge Access:
- Priority Pass Select membership, including access to exclusive restaurants and experiences.
- Access to Chase Sapphire Lounges and Chase Sapphire Terrace.
Additional Perks:
- $300 annual travel credit effectively reducing the net annual fee to $250.
- 3x points on travel and dining purchases, enhancing rewards accumulation.
- Comprehensive travel and purchase protections offer added security.
Why It’s Affordable: The substantial travel credit partially offsets the higher annual fee, offering significant value for frequent travelers who utilize the lounge access and other perks.

3. Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

For those who prefer staying within the Hilton network, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card provides affordable lounge access along with valuable hotel-related perks.

Annual Fee: $150 for the primary cardholder.
Authorized User Fee: $0 for authorized users.
Lounge Access:
- Complimentary Priority Pass Select membership with 10 free visits annually for the primary cardholder and up to two guests.
Additional Perks:
- Hilton Honors Gold status provides enhanced benefits during hotel stays.
- Earns 12x points on Hilton purchases, maximizing rewards within the Hilton ecosystem.
Why It’s Affordable: The low annual fee combined with complimentary Priority Pass visits makes this card ideal for occasional travelers looking to access lounges without incurring high costs.

4. United Club℠ Infinite Card

The United Club℠ Infinite Card is particularly beneficial for families or groups flying frequently with United Airlines, offering versatile lounge access and family-friendly perks.

Annual Fee: $525 for the primary cardholder.
Authorized User Fee: $0 for authorized users.
Lounge Access:
- Access to United Club lounges and select Star Alliance lounges.
- Authorized users can bring one adult and dependent children under 21, or up to two guests per visit.
Additional Perks:
- Premier Access travel benefits, including priority boarding and check-in.
- Free first and second checked bags enhance travel convenience.
Why It’s Affordable: The absence of additional fees for authorized users makes this card a cost-effective option for families, providing extensive lounge access without extra costs.

5. The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Platinum Card® from American Express is tailored for the ultra-premium traveler, offering unparalleled lounge access and a plethora of high-end travel benefits.

Annual Fee: $695 for the primary cardholder.
Authorized User Fee: $195 per authorized user annually.
Lounge Access:
- Access to the exclusive Centurion Lounges.
- Priority Pass Select membership and other Global Lounge Collection partners.
- Delta Sky Club access when flying Delta Airlines.
Additional Perks:
- $200 airline fee credit annually, applicable to incidental charges.
- $200 Uber Cash per year enhances everyday travel convenience.
Why It’s Affordable: While the annual fee is on the higher end, the extensive lounge network and premium benefits provide immense value for frequent travelers willing to invest in top-tier services.

6. Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®

Ideal for American Airlines loyalists, the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® offers seamless lounge access and valuable airline-specific benefits for groups.

Annual Fee: $595 for the primary cardholder.
Authorized User Fee: $0 for unlimited authorized users.
Lounge Access:
- Complimentary access to Admirals Club lounges for both primary and authorized users when flying with American Airlines.
Additional Perks:
- Free first checked bag on domestic American Airlines itineraries.
- Preferred boarding and 25% off in-flight purchases enhance the travel experience.
Why It’s Affordable: The ability to add unlimited authorized users at no extra cost is highly advantageous for large families or groups who travel together frequently with American Airlines.

7. Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is perfect for Delta enthusiasts, offering exclusive lounge access and premium travel benefits tailored to Delta flyers.

Annual Fee: $550 for the primary cardholder.
Authorized User Fee: $175 for up to three users annually; $175 per user thereafter.
Lounge Access:
- Authorized users gain access to Delta Sky Clubs when flying Delta Airlines.
- Complimentary access to Centurion Lounges when flying Delta.
Additional Perks:
- Complimentary companion certificate for domestic first-class, Comfort+, or economy tickets.
- First checked bag free enhances travel convenience.
Why It’s Affordable: While the authorized user fees are higher than some competitors, the exclusive Delta-specific benefits and lounge access make it a worthwhile consideration for loyal Delta customers.

8. U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card

The U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card offers a budget-friendly option for travelers seeking lounge access without the burden of high annual fees.

Annual Fee: $0 the first year, thereafter $95.
Authorized User Fee: $0 for authorized users.
Lounge Access:
- Includes Priority Pass Select membership with 4 free passes annually.
Additional Perks:
- $100 TSA PreCheck/Global Entry credit enhances travel security and efficiency.
- Earn up to 4X points on travel purchases, maximizing rewards accumulation.
Why It’s Affordable: The low annual fee and free authorized user inclusion make this card an excellent entry point for budget-conscious travelers looking to enjoy lounge access and travel rewards.

Comparative Analysis

To provide a clearer comparison of the top affordable credit cards for authorized user lounge access, the following table summarizes key features, fees, and benefits:

Credit Card	Annual Fee	Authorized User Fee	Lounge Access	Additional Perks
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card	$395	$0 for up to 4 users	Capital One Lounges, Priority Pass Select, Plaza Premium Lounges	$300 travel credit, 10,000 bonus miles annually
Chase Sapphire Reserve®	$550	$75 per user	Priority Pass Select, Chase Sapphire Lounges	$300 travel credit, 3x points on travel/dining
Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card	$150	$0	Priority Pass Select (10 visits/year)	Hilton Honors Gold status, 12x points on Hilton purchases
United Club℠ Infinite Card	$525	$0	United Club lounges, Star Alliance lounges	Premier Access, free checked bags
The Platinum Card® from American Express	$695	$195 per user	Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass Select, Global Lounge Collection	$200 airline fee credit, $200 Uber Cash
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®	$595	$0 for unlimited users	Admirals Club lounges with AA	Free first checked bag, preferred boarding
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card	$550	$175 for up to 3 users	Delta Sky Clubs, Centurion Lounges with Delta	Companion certificate, free checked bag
U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card	$0 first year, then $95	$0	Priority Pass Select (4 passes/year)	$100 TSA PreCheck/Global Entry credit, 4X points on travel

Detailed Benefits and Features

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Ranked consistently as the best overall value, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers exceptional lounge access without additional costs for authorized users.

Lounge Access: Unlimited access to Capital One Lounges and Priority Pass Select membership, ensuring that both primary and authorized users can enjoy exclusive airport lounges without restrictions.
Authorized User Benefits: Up to four authorized users can be added at no extra cost, each receiving the same lounge access as the primary cardholder.
Travel Credits: The $300 annual travel credit significantly offsets the annual fee, making it a cost-effective option for frequent travelers.
Rewards: Earn 10,000 bonus miles on each account anniversary, adding to the overall value and providing flexibility in redeeming for travel expenses.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a premium credit card that offers extensive lounge access and valuable travel perks, making it a strong contender in the affordable lounge access category.

Lounge Access: Includes Priority Pass Select membership, granting access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, along with access to exclusive Chase Sapphire Lounges.
Authorized User Benefits: Authorized users can be added for $75 annually, each receiving Priority Pass access and the ability to bring guests, enhancing the travel experience for families and groups.
Travel Credit: The $300 annual travel credit effectively reduces the net cost of the card, providing substantial value to offset the higher annual fee.
Rewards and Protections: Earn 3x points on travel and dining purchases, along with comprehensive travel and purchase protections that offer peace of mind during travels.

Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card

For travelers loyal to the Hilton brand, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card provides not only affordable lounge access but also superior hotel-related benefits.

Lounge Access: Complimentary Priority Pass Select membership offers 10 free lounge visits per year for the primary cardholder and up to two guests, making it ideal for occasional lounge users.
Authorized User Benefits: No additional cost for authorized users ensures that family members or friends can enjoy lounge access without increasing expenses.
Hotel Perks: Hilton Honors Gold status provides enhanced benefits such as room upgrades and free breakfast, enriching the overall travel and lodging experience.
Rewards: Earning 12x points on Hilton purchases maximizes rewards accumulation within the Hilton ecosystem, offering excellent value for frequent Hilton guests.

United Club℠ Infinite Card

The United Club℠ Infinite Card is a top choice for families or groups who frequently travel with United Airlines, offering comprehensive lounge access without additional user fees.

Lounge Access: Full access to United Club lounges and select Star Alliance lounges ensures that both primary and authorized users can relax in exclusive environments before flights.
Family-Friendly: Authorized users can include one adult and dependent children under 21, or up to two guests, making it an excellent option for family travel.
Travel Benefits: Premier Access travel benefits like priority boarding and check-in streamline the travel process, enhancing convenience and efficiency.
Baggage Perks: Free first and second checked bags reduce travel costs and simplify luggage handling.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

While positioned in the premium segment, The Platinum Card® from American Express offers extensive lounge access and high-end travel benefits that justify its higher cost for frequent travelers.

Lounge Access: Access to Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass Select, and other Global Lounge Collection partners ensures unparalleled lounge options globally.
Authorized User Benefits: Authorized users can be added for $195 annually, each enjoying the same extensive lounge access as the primary cardholder.
Premium Benefits: The $200 airline fee credit and $200 Uber Cash annually provide substantial value, offsetting the high annual fee for those who fully utilize these perks.
Travel Enhancements: Additional benefits like complimentary Global Entry or TSA PreCheck and access to exclusive events elevate the travel experience.

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®

Designed for American Airlines frequent flyers, the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® provides cost-effective lounge access and airline-specific benefits.

Lounge Access: Complimentary access to Admirals Club lounges when flying with American Airlines ensures a comfortable pre-flight environment for both primary and authorized users.
Authorized User Benefits: Unlimited authorized users can be added at no extra cost, making it ideal for large families or groups traveling together.
Airline Perks: Free first checked bag on domestic itineraries and preferred boarding enhance the overall travel experience with American Airlines.
Rewards: Earn valuable miles and enjoy 25% off in-flight purchases, increasing the benefits for dedicated American Airlines travelers.

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card offers exclusive lounge access and premium travel benefits tailored specifically for Delta Airlines loyalists.

Lounge Access: Authorized users gain access to Delta Sky Clubs and Centurion Lounges when flying Delta, providing premium lounge options comparable to other top-tier cards.
Authorized User Fees: While higher at $175 for up to three users, the exclusive Delta-specific benefits and lounge access justify the cost for Delta enthusiasts.
Travel Credits: A complimentary companion certificate for domestic flights adds significant value, allowing for more flexible travel arrangements.
Baggage Benefits: Free first checked bag reduces overall travel costs and simplifies baggage management.

U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card

The U.S. Bank Altitude Connect Visa Signature Card is a budget-friendly choice for travelers seeking lounge access without the burden of high annual fees.

Lounge Access: Priority Pass Select membership with 4 free passes annually offers basic lounge access for occasional travelers.
Authorized User Benefits: No additional cost for authorized users makes it an economical option for groups and families.
Travel Enhancements: The $100 TSA PreCheck/Global Entry credit ensures expedited security screening, enhancing travel efficiency.
Rewards: Earn up to 4X points on travel purchases maximizes rewards for active travelers, providing substantial value for everyday use.

Conclusion

Choosing the best affordable authorized user credit card for lounge access in the USA depends largely on your specific travel habits and priorities. The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card emerges as the top overall choice due to its comprehensive lounge access and zero-cost authorized user benefits. For those seeking premium perks and are willing to invest in a higher annual fee, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The Platinum Card® from American Express offer exceptional value. Meanwhile, budget-conscious travelers and those loyal to specific airlines can find excellent value in cards like the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card and the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®.

Ultimately, evaluating the annual fee, authorized user costs, lounge access quality, and additional perks will help you select the card that best aligns with your travel needs and financial considerations. By leveraging these affordable credit cards, you can enhance your travel experience with exclusive lounge access and a suite of valuable benefits without incurring excessive costs.