1.American Express Platinum Card
American Express
- 1%Membership Rewards points on eligible spend
Earn 75,000 Membership Rewards points + £250 Amex Travel credit for spending £6,000 in the first 3 months.
Earn 1 Membership Rewards point for every £1 spent, with bonus points on travel.
688.5% APR variable
The American Express Platinum Card stands out as the top choice because it offers unparalleled luxury travel benefits, including extensive airport lounge access and premium rewards flexibility, making it ideal for frequent travelers.
Pros:
- Extensive travel perks
- High rewards flexibility
Cons:
- High annual fee
- Requires good credit
- 4%Points on foreign currency spend
- 2%Points on UK spend
Receive 40,000 reward points when you spend £2,000 in the first 90 days.
Earn 4 points for every £1 spent abroad and 2 points for every £1 spent in the UK.
100.2% APR (variable)
What sets the HSBC Premier World Elite Mastercard apart is its generous rewards structure, offering 4 points per £1 spent abroad, making it a strong choice for international travelers.
Pros:
- Unlimited lounge access
- Comprehensive travel insurance
Cons:
- High annual fee
- Requires Premier account
3.American Express Preferred Rewards Gold Credit Card
American Express
- 3%Points on travel bookings
- 1%Points on all other purchases
Earn 20,000 Membership Rewards points when you spend £3,000 in your first three months.
Earn 3 points on travel booked through Amex and 1 point on all other purchases.
86.3% APR variable
This card shines for its flexibility, allowing users to earn substantial rewards on travel while waiving the annual fee for the first year, making it an attractive option for new cardholders.
Pros:
- First year annual fee waived
- Flexible rewards
Cons:
- High APR
- Requires good credit
4.HSBC Premier Credit Card
HSBC
- 2%Points on foreign currency spend
- 1%Points on UK spend
Receive 40,000 reward points when you spend £2,000 in the first 90 days.
Earn 2 points for every £1 spent in foreign currency and 1 point for every £1 spent in the UK.
26.9% APR (variable)
A key differentiator is its lack of an annual fee, making the HSBC Premier Credit Card an excellent choice for those who want to earn rewards without the burden of high costs.
Pros:
- No annual fee
- Good rewards on foreign spend
Cons:
- Limited benefits compared to premium cards
- Requires Premier account
5.Lloyds Bank World Elite Mastercard
Lloyds Bank
- 1%Cashback on spending above £15,000
- 0.5%Cashback on first £15,000
N/A
Earn 1% cashback on spending above £15,000 and 0.5% on the first £15,000.
55.0% APR (variable)
The standout feature here is the unlimited Priority Pass lounge access, making it a premium choice for frequent travelers who value comfort and convenience at airports.
Pros:
- Unlimited lounge access
- No foreign transaction fees
Cons:
- Monthly fee can add up
- High APR if balance is carried
6.Barclaycard Avios Plus Card
Barclaycard
- 1.5%Avios on eligible purchases
Collect 25,000 Avios if you spend £3,000 in the first three months.
Earn 1.5 Avios for every £1 spent.
80.1% APR (variable)
Unlike other options, this card offers a robust Avios earning structure, making it ideal for frequent British Airways travelers looking to maximize their rewards.
Pros:
- High Avios earning rate
- Annual upgrade voucher
Cons:
- Monthly fee
- Requires high spending for bonuses
Final Words
As you consider the best credit cards with airport lounge access this January, remember that comparing annual fees, benefits, and terms is crucial to finding the right fit for your travel needs. Take time to evaluate your options and make an informed decision that enhances your travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
The American Express Platinum Card offers a welcome bonus of 75,000 Membership Rewards points + £250 Amex Travel credit for spending £6,000 in the first 3 months. You earn 1 Membership Rewards point for every £1 spent, with bonus points on travel.
With the HSBC Premier World Elite Mastercard, you can receive a welcome bonus of 40,000 reward points when you spend £2,000 in the first 90 days. The card offers 4 points for every £1 spent abroad and 2 points for every £1 spent in the UK.
The American Express Preferred Rewards Gold Credit Card provides a welcome bonus of 20,000 Membership Rewards points when you spend £3,000 in your first three months. You earn 3 points on travel booked through Amex and 1 point on all other purchases.
When choosing a credit card with airport lounge access, consider the annual fee, the number of complimentary lounge visits, and any additional travel benefits. Also, evaluate how often you travel and if the card aligns with your spending habits to maximize rewards.
Yes, most credit cards with airport lounge access have specific eligibility requirements, such as a minimum income or credit score. It’s essential to check these criteria during the application process to ensure you qualify.
The application process typically involves filling out an online form with personal and financial information, followed by a credit check. Some providers may also require proof of income or identification before approving your application.
To compare credit cards with lounge access, look at factors such as annual fees, welcome bonuses, reward rates, and additional travel perks. Use comparison websites or tables to evaluate these features side by side for easier decision-making.
