Travel Like a Pro: 3 Cards That Scream First-Class (and Unlock Airport Lounges)

If you've ever walked past a sleek airport lounge and wondered what kind of magic (and money) gets you inside, here's the truth: You don't have to fly first class or rack up millions of miles. You just need the right credit card.

I've been covering travel credit cards for years, and some of the best value isn't in the points, it's in the perks. Things like lounge access, TSA PreCheck credits, and travel protections can make even the most basic flight feel like a VIP experience. But not all cards are created equal.

These three cards are among the top-tier picks if you want to travel better.

1. Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Travel value packed with premium perks

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® (see rates and fees) is built for people who want serious rewards and first-class treatment. Chase just supercharged this luxury card with new benefits worth up to $2,700 in annual value, including $500 to use at luxury hotels in its "Edit" collection and a $300 StubHub credit.

You'll also get:

• Lounge access through Priority Pass™ Select, plus Chase Sapphire Lounges (1,300+ lounges worldwide)
• $300 annual travel credit (super easy to use)
• Up to $120 towards Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck every four years
• Up to 8x points on Chase Travel purchases
• 1:1 point transfers to top airline and hotel partners
• Complimentary DashPass and Lyft perks

Limited-time welcome offer: Earn 100,000 bonus points + $500 Chase Travel℠ promo credit after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That point bonus is worth at least $1,000 as cash back, but potentially much more if redeemed through the Chase Travel portal with Chase's new Points Boost feature.

If you travel even a few times a year, this card practically pays for itself. Apply for the Chase Sapphire Reserve® card today.

2. The Platinum Card® from American Express: Pure luxury (with the lounge access to match)

This one's the gold standard for frequent flyers who want comfort, convenience, and a splash of glam. The Amex Platinum Card unlocks access to Amex's Centurion Lounges, which are among the best in the game -- plus Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta) and a Priority Pass membership (terms apply).

Perks include:

• 5X points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel® up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year
• 5X points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel®
• $200 airline fee credit every year
• $200 annual hotel credit
• Up to $199 in statement credits each year after you pay for your CLEAR® Plus membership
• $120 statement credit every four years for Global Entry or up to $85 every 4.5 years for TSA PreCheck.
• Hotel elite status with Marriott and Hilton
• Uber and digital entertainment credits
• Terms apply; enrollment may be required

Yes, the annual fee is high ($695, rates and fees). But if you use even half the perks, you'll come out ahead. And if you're someone who values a smooth airport experience, the lounge access alone can make it worth it. Apply for The Platinum Card® from American Express now.

3. Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: Simple rewards, elite travel access

If you like the idea of premium perks but want to keep things straightforward, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card nails that balance. You'll earn 5X-10X miles on Capital One Travel purchases, plus 2X miles on all other purchases. You'll also get access to more than 1,300 airport lounges worldwide -- including Capital One Lounges and Priority Pass.

More highlights:

• Welcome bonus of 75,000 Miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening
• $300 annual travel credit (Capital One Travel)
• 10,000 bonus miles every year (starting on your first anniversary)
• No foreign transaction fees

This card has quickly become a sleeper favorite for savvy travelers. It's less flashy than the Amex Platinum Card (and has a lower annual fee: $395, see rates and fees), but it delivers incredible value for the price.

If you want to travel smarter, this is where you start

With the right credit card in your wallet, you can skip the crowded terminals, breeze through security, and enjoy a cocktail before your flight, all without upgrading your seat. Whether you want luxury, simplicity, or all-out perks, these three cards are built to take your travel game to the next level.