Planning a trip and wondering about those exclusive airport lounge perks? You've landed in the right place! American Express offers some of the most sought-after airport lounge access programs, and understanding their guest policies is key to a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. It's not a one-size-fits-all answer, as guest allowances vary significantly depending on your specific American Express card and the type of lounge you're trying to access. Let's break it down step-by-step.
Step 1: Identify Your American Express Card
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of guest policies, the very first thing you need to do is identify which American Express card you hold. This is crucial because different cards come with different lounge access benefits and, consequently, different guest allowances. For instance, a Platinum Card will have vastly different perks than a Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Card.
Common cards that offer significant lounge access include:
The Platinum Card® from American Express (and its business equivalent)
The Centurion® Card from American Express (the ultra-exclusive black card)
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
American Express Corporate Platinum Card
Cards that offer a complimentary Priority Pass™ membership
Once you know your card, you're ready to proceed to the next step!
Step 2: Understand the American Express Global Lounge Collection
American Express boasts an impressive "Global Lounge Collection," which is a network of lounges worldwide accessible to eligible Card Members. This collection isn't just one type of lounge; it's a diverse group, each with its own access and guest policies.
The primary lounge types within this collection that you'll encounter are:
The Centurion® Lounge: These are American Express's flagship lounges, known for their premium amenities, chef-curated menus, and often, a more exclusive feel.
Delta Sky Club: For those flying with Delta, access to Delta's branded lounges.
Priority Pass™ Select: A vast global network of independent airport lounges, often included as a benefit with premium Amex cards.
International American Express Lounges: Amex-branded lounges located outside the U.S., which may have slightly different local policies.
Plaza Premium Lounges: Another network of independent lounges, some of which are Centurion Studio Partners.
Lufthansa Lounges: Accessible for eligible Card Members flying with Lufthansa Group.
Other Partner Lounges: Various other lounges that have partnered with American Express.
Each of these has its own specific guest rules, so let's explore them individually.
Step 3: Delve into Specific Lounge Guest Policies
The Centurion® Lounge Guest Policy
This is often where the most questions arise, as Centurion Lounges are highly sought after.
Standard Policy (for Platinum and Business Platinum Card Members):
Historically, Platinum and Business Platinum Card Members could bring up to two complimentary guests per visit.
Important Update (for US-issued Platinum Cards, effective February 1, 2023): Unless you meet a specific spending threshold, complimentary guest access for Platinum and Business Platinum Card Members has been removed. You will now typically be charged:
$50 USD per adult guest (18 and older)
$30 USD per child guest (ages 2-17)
Children under 2 years of age are generally complimentary.
Earning Complimentary Guest Access (for Platinum and Business Platinum Card Members):
You can re-earn complimentary access for up to two guests per visit by spending $75,000 USD or more on eligible purchases with your Platinum or Business Platinum Card within a calendar year. Once this threshold is met, the complimentary guest access is valid for the remainder of that calendar year and the entire following calendar year.
Centurion® Card Members:
Centurion Card Members (the black card) typically have the most generous guest policy, often allowing two complimentary guests or immediate family members (spouse/domestic partner and children under 18) at no additional charge.
Corporate Platinum Card Members:
Corporate Platinum Card members generally receive two complimentary guests at Centurion Lounges in the U.S., London, and Hong Kong.
International Centurion Lounge Variations:
Be aware that international Centurion Lounge locations may have different guest policies. For example, some may still allow one complimentary guest, while others might charge a higher fee. Always check the specific lounge details on the Amex app or website before your visit.
Delta Sky Club Guest Policy
Access to Delta Sky Clubs is a popular benefit for specific American Express cards.
For The Platinum Card® from American Express & Business Platinum Card® from American Express:
You receive complimentary access when flying on a same-day Delta-operated or Delta-marketed flight.
Guest Access: You are not entitled to complimentary guests with these cards. You can, however, purchase guest access for $50 USD per person (or 5,000 SkyMiles, if you're a SkyMiles member) for up to two guests or your immediate family (spouse/domestic partner and children under 21). Guests must also be flying on a same-day Delta-marketed or Delta-operated flight.
For Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card & Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card:
You receive a certain number of complimentary visits per year (e.g., 15 visits as of recent policies).
Guest Access: You can bring up to two guests or immediate family (spouse/domestic partner and children under 21) at a rate of $50 USD per person (or 5,000 SkyMiles) per visit. These cards may also come with a limited number of "One-Time Guest Passes" each year.
Delta Sky Club Memberships:
If you have a direct Delta Sky Club membership (purchased separately), guest policies vary based on the membership type (Individual vs. Executive). An Executive membership typically allows complimentary guests.
Priority Pass™ Select Guest Policy
Many premium American Express cards include a complimentary Priority Pass™ Select membership.
Standard Policy:
Most American Express Platinum and Business Platinum Cards that offer Priority Pass Select membership allow you to bring one complimentary guest per visit.
Any additional guests beyond the complimentary allowance will typically be charged at the prevailing retail rate, which is currently around $35 USD per person per visit. This charge will be automatically billed to your linked American Express Card.
Important Note: You need your physical Priority Pass card or your digital Priority Pass card (via the app) to access these lounges, not your American Express Card directly.
International American Express Lounges & Plaza Premium Lounges
These lounges can have slight variations.
General Policy: Many international American Express Lounges and Plaza Premium Lounges will allow one complimentary guest with your eligible Platinum or Business Platinum Card.
Variations: It's always best to check the specific lounge details on the American Express website or app, as some locations might have different guest allowances (e.g., some may allow one guest plus children under a certain age).
Step 4: Essential Documents for Lounge Entry
Regardless of the lounge type or your guest policy, you'll always need the following to gain entry:
Your Valid American Express Card: The physical card itself, not just the number.
A Confirmed Same-Day Boarding Pass: This must show a confirmed reservation for same-day travel on any carrier (for Centurion Lounges and most partner lounges) or a specific airline (like Delta for Delta Sky Clubs). Standby or non-revenue passengers are usually not eligible.
A Government-Issued Photo ID: To verify your identity.
For Guests: Your guests will also need their same-day boarding pass and, in some cases, a government-issued ID.
Step 5: Be Aware of Capacity and Other Restrictions
Space Availability: Lounge access is always subject to space availability. During peak travel times, lounges can get crowded, and you may be put on a waitlist or even denied entry if the lounge is at full capacity.
Time Limits: Some lounges may impose time limits on your stay (e.g., 3 hours before departure, unless on a layover).
Behavioral Guidelines: American Express reserves the right to remove any person from the lounge for inappropriate behavior.
Age Restrictions: Most lounges require individuals to be at least 18 years of age to enter without a parent or legal guardian. For self-service bars, the age limit is typically 21.
By following these steps and keeping the specific policies in mind, you can maximize your American Express lounge benefits and ensure a more relaxed and enjoyable travel experience for yourself and your companions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to check my specific American Express lounge guest policy?
The best way to check your specific guest policy is through the American Express website's "Lounge Finder" tool or the Amex mobile app. Enter your card details and the lounge you plan to visit, and it should provide the most up-to-date guest policy.
How to avoid paying guest fees at Centurion Lounges?
For Platinum and Business Platinum Card Members, you can avoid guest fees by spending $75,000 or more on eligible purchases with your card in a calendar year. This will grant you complimentary guest access for up to two guests for the remainder of that year and the entire following year.
How to bring a child into an American Express lounge?
Children under 2 years old are generally complimentary in most American Express lounges (including Centurion Lounges). For children aged 2 and above, they are typically counted as a guest and may incur a fee, depending on your card and the lounge type.
How to use my Priority Pass membership for lounge access?
You need to present your physical Priority Pass card or the digital QR code from the Priority Pass app, along with your boarding pass and government-issued ID. Your American Express card itself cannot be used for direct Priority Pass lounge access.
How to know if a specific lounge is crowded before I go?
Some Centurion Lounges offer a digital waitlist feature through the Amex App, allowing you to check real-time capacity and add yourself to a waitlist. For other lounges, you may be able to call ahead, or simply arrive and be prepared for potential wait times during peak hours.
How to pay for additional guests in an American Express lounge?
If additional guests are allowed beyond your complimentary allowance, the fees will typically be charged directly to your American Express card that grants you lounge access.
How to access Delta Sky Clubs with my American Express Platinum Card?
You must be traveling on a same-day Delta-operated or Delta-marketed flight. Present your Platinum Card, government-issued ID, and boarding pass. Note that complimentary guest access is generally not included with the Platinum Card for Delta Sky Clubs; guests will incur a fee.
How to find American Express Lounges at my departure airport?
Use the American Express "Lounge Finder" tool on their website or within the Amex mobile app. You can search by airport code, city, or lounge name to see all eligible lounges and their specific access requirements.
How to determine if my supplementary cardholder can bring guests?
Access and guest privileges for supplementary (or additional) cardholders can vary. Generally, if the supplementary card is linked to a Platinum or Centurion account, they may have the same access rights as the primary cardholder, including guest allowances. Always confirm the specific terms for your supplementary card.
How to handle a situation if a lounge denies access due to capacity?
Unfortunately, if a lounge is at full capacity, they have the right to deny entry. Your best options are to check for alternative lounges within the Global Lounge Collection at the same airport (if available), or adjust your schedule if possible to visit during off-peak hours.