Points Earning Strategies, Points Redeeming, Travel Tips

August 4, 2025

How to Access Airport Lounges with Credit Cards in 2025: What’s Changed and What to Know

Episode Description

If you’ve ever been confused about airport lounge access—what counts, what’s changed, and what’s still worth it—you’re not alone.

In this episode, I welcome back guest Traci Siegel for an updated look at lounge access using rewards credit cards in 2025. We unpack the biggest changes to credit card lounge access this year, including new restrictions on who gets in and when.

From premium travel cards like the Amex Platinum and Capital One Venture X to underrated options and family-friendly picks, we’re breaking down which cards actually deliver on their lounge promises—and which ones have quietly downgraded their perks.

If you’re trying to figure out which card is best for your personal travel style, or you’ve ever been turned away at a lounge counter and thought, “Wait, I thought this card included access,” this episode is for you.

Turn your expenses into points and save tens of thousands of dollars a year on your wishlist travel. Don’t miss out! Click here to know more about my comprehensive online program, Points Made Easy.

What You’ll Learn from this Episode

  • What’s changed with airport lounge access in 2025 (and why it matters)
  • The difference between lounge access and lounge benefits by card type
  • How Amex Platinum, Capital One Venture X, and CSR compare for lounge perks
  • Which cards are best for solo travelers vs. families
  • Tips to avoid common lounge surprises (like guest restrictions and blackout rules)
  • The math to run when choosing a lounge-access card
  • How to evaluate if a premium card’s annual fee is actually worth it for you

Featured on the Show:

Click here to download full episode transcript


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