Traveling can be exhausting and overwhelming, from the long flights to the constant movement, it is necessary to take a break and unwind as much as we can. International airport lounges provide travelers with a sense of relaxation, comfort, and convenience. Access to the exclusive lounges can be an escape to the havoc of the airport terminals. In recent times, many credit cards offer access to the best airport lounges worldwide. Choosing an international lounge access credit card that best suits your travel needs can be daunting, as several factors need to be considered. This article helps breakdown these factors, so you can choose the best international lounge access credit card that aligns with your travel style.
International Lounge Access Credit Card: What is it?
An international lounge access credit card is a type of credit card that provides cardholders access to the best airport lounges globally. Airport lounges offer a serene and comfortable environment that is generally unavailable in the airport terminals. The lounge features range from comfortable seating, high-speed internet, showers, workstations, meals, and drinks. Travelers who hold an international lounge access credit card can enjoy these lounge features before their flights, even if they are flying economy class, making their travels more enjoyable.
Credit Card Benefits
Credit cards offer different perks, determined by the issuer, type, and value. Travel credit cards, specifically, offer several benefits that make them a favorite among many travelers. Below are some credit card benefits to consider, to help you choose the best international lounge access credit card for your travel style:
Earn Miles
One of the most significant benefits of travel credit cards is earning miles. Many travel credit cards offer several reward programs, such as earning one mile or point for every dollar spent, earning bonus points or miles for particular categories, or after meeting a spending requirement. These miles or points can be redeemed to cover travel costs like flight costs, hotel costs, and car rentals.
Travel Protection
Travel protection is another perk that travel credit cards offer. This perk covers travelers in case of travel-related incidents such as trip cancellations, trip interruptions, and flight delays. Credit cardholders can be reimbursed for prepaid travel expenses or expenses incurred during travel.
Lounge Access
Access to airport lounges is an added perk that international lounge access credit cards offer. This perk provides lounge access to cardholders regardless of their travel class. Travelers can access the lounges using their credit cards, often accompanied by a fee or free of charge. Many credit cards partner with airlines or specific lounges to offer lounge access, with different terms and conditions.
Free Checked Bags
Free checked bags are another travel benefit offered by travel credit cards. Cardholders can check their bags for free when flying on the same airline as their credit card issuer. This perk can save a significant amount of money, especially for frequent travelers.
No Foreign Transaction Fees
Using a card that does not charge foreign transaction fees can save travelers a lot of money. Many credit cards charge a foreign transaction fee, typically 3% of each purchase. Choosing a card with no foreign transaction fees can save you some extra cash for your travel expenses.
Factors to Consider in Choosing an International Lounge Access Credit Card
To choose an international lounge access credit card that best suits your travel needs, several factors need to be considered. Below are some factors to consider to help you choose the best credit card for your travel style:
Annual Fees
Annual fees can vary from credit card issuers, card types, and benefits. Annual fees are charged on a yearly basis, and they provide access to the card benefits. Credit cards with higher annual fees often offer better and more extensive benefits. When choosing an international lounge access credit card, the annual fee is an important factor to consider. Choose a card with an annual fee that you can afford without putting a dent in your budget.
Lounge Access
Lounge access is a significant benefit offered by international lounge access credit cards. Different credit cards offer various lounge access programs, with different terms and conditions. Some credit cards offer complimentary access to certain lounges, while some cards offer lounge access for a fee. Consider the credit cards that provide lounge access at the airports you frequently travel to, and assess the terms and conditions attached to the lounge access programs.
Bonus Points and Miles
Travel credit cards offer rewards programs that allow cardholders to earn bonus points or miles after meeting a spending requirement. These points and miles can be redeemed to cover travel expenses, such as flights, car rentals, and hotel stays. When choosing an international lounge access credit card, consider the reward programβs quantity, quality, and how easy it is to redeem rewards.
Global Acceptance
When traveling abroad, it is essential to choose an international lounge access credit card that has global acceptance. Some credit cards are only accepted worldwide where specific networks are available or have charges for foreign transactions. To avoid extra charges or not being able to use your card abroad, choose a credit card with global acceptance and no foreign transaction fees.
Conclusion
Choosing the best international lounge access credit card for your travel style can be tricky, but considering the factors outlined in this article, you can make an informed decision. Ensure you assess your travel needs, card benefits, annual fees, lounge access, bonus points and miles, and global acceptance before choosing your international lounge access credit card. With the right international lounge access credit card, you can enjoy access to the best airport lounges globally, making your travels comfortable, luxurious, and enjoyable.