The Chase Sapphire Preferred card does not include complimentary airport lounge access. If you want a card that gets you free entry into airport networks like Priority Pass, you'll need to look at higher-tier alternatives. Even without lounge perks, the card remains a top choice for travelers because of its robust point multipliers and comprehensive travel insurance protections.
Understanding what the card actually offers—and how you can still secure lounge entry through alternative methods—saves you from unwanted surprises at the airport gate.
What the Chase Sapphire Preferred Includes
While airport lounges are off-limits, the card packs plenty of value for its modest annual fee. You earn flexible Chase Ultimate Rewards points that transfer to major airline and hotel partners, giving you high-value redemptions for flights and hotel stays.
- Point Multipliers: Earn 3x points on dining, select streaming services, and online grocery purchases, plus 2x points on general travel.
- Annual Hotel Credit: Receive up to $100 in statement credits annually for hotel stays booked through the Chase Travel portal.
- Travel Protections: Benefit from primary auto rental collision damage waiver, trip cancellation and interruption insurance, and baggage delay reimbursement.
- DashPass Subscription: Enjoy a complimentary DashPass membership for food delivery services.
Why Priority Pass Is Not Included
Many travelers assume that mid-tier travel cards automatically bundle airport lounge memberships, but issuer economics dictate otherwise. The Chase Sapphire Reserve card includes a complimentary Priority Pass Select membership because its annual fee sits at a much higher price point.
Adding a Priority Pass membership to a lower-fee card like the Sapphire Preferred would significantly increase issuer costs. Instead, Chase positions the Preferred card as an accessible entry point for everyday travelers who prioritize earning transferable points and insurance protections over pre-flight buffet access.
Alternative Ways to Get Lounge Access
If you hold the Chase Sapphire Preferred but still want a quiet place to work or relax before a flight, you have a few practical options to explore.
Upgrade to the Chase Sapphire Reserve
If you find yourself wanting lounge perks on every trip, you can call Chase and request a product change to the Chase Sapphire Reserve. This upgrades your account to include a Priority Pass Select membership, access to proprietary Chase Sapphire Lounges, and credits for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry. Keep in mind that the annual fee jumps substantially, so run the numbers to see if you will use the extra credits.
Purchase Independent Day Passes
Networks like LoungeBuddy or independent lounges often sell single-visit passes directly through their apps. Prices usually range from $30 to $60 depending on the airport and amenities. This strategy works well if you only take one or two trips a year, as paying out-of-pocket for occasional visits costs far less than paying a hefty annual fee for a premium card.
Look for Secondary Credit Cards
Many savvy travelers hold a second, no-annual-fee or low-fee card that unlocks specific regional networks, or they rely on elite status with airlines like Delta or United to secure complimentary entry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay a discounted fee to enter Chase Sapphire Lounges with my Sapphire Preferred?
No. Priority Pass and LoungeKey members no longer have access to Chase Sapphire Lounges, and discounted paid-entry options have been eliminated. Entry is restricted to eligible premium cardholders.
Does the Sapphire Preferred give me access to airline-specific lounges?
No. The card does not grant entry into airline lounges operated by carriers like American Airlines, Delta, or United. You must hold specific airline elite status or a co-branded credit card for those networks.
Can I add an authorized user to get them lounge access?
Adding an authorized user to the Sapphire Preferred costs a nominal fee, but it does not unlock lounge access for them either. Authorized users share the same core benefit structure as the primary account holder.
Are there any domestic airport perks included instead?
While lounges aren't included, you can use your card to book travel through the portal and take advantage of dining discounts or rideshare partnerships depending on current promotional offers.
