American Express Centurion Lounges Are Probably Less Crowded. But It Comes at a Cost for Some Amex Cardholders

While eligible cardholders can still visit American Express Centurion® lounges, some will need to pay if they bring guests.

For many travelers, airport lounges offer a calm escape from the busier parts of the airport. Many premium credit cards offer airport lounge access as a perk. Some Amex credit cardholders can access the American Express Centurion® Lounges for free. But cardholders should be aware of a recent policy change that will impact travelers bringing guests. Here's what you need to know before your next trip to the airport.

Many cardholders will need to pay for guest access

Until recently, those with The Platinum Card® from American Express or The Business Platinum Card® from American Express could bring two guests for free when visiting American Express Centurion® lounges. However, that's no longer the case due to a recent guest policy change.

This change went into effect on Feb. 1, 2022. Eligible cardholders receive complimentary access, but must now pay to bring guests unless they meet the minimum yearly spending requirement. The price to bring a guest is $50 for adults or $30 for children ages 2 through 17. (Terms apply.)

However, high spenders qualify for complimentary guest access and can bring up to two guests per visit. Cardholders who made at least $75,000 in eligible purchases on their cards each calendar year can bring guests with them at no extra cost. If you have either of these Amex credit cards, you should be aware of this recent change.

Lounges will probably be less crowded due to this change

If you spend time hanging out in airport lounges, you've probably noticed how busy many lounges have gotten over the last few years. As more credit card issuers add lounge access benefits to their cards, more people use the perk. When cardholders are allowed to bring multiple guests with them for free, it makes lounges even busier and more crowded.

There is one benefit to this policy change. This recent change will probably make American Express Centurion® lounges less busy, which could improve the airport lounge experience for all guests. This news may be a win if you prefer to spend time in less crowded lounges.

For some cardholders, the news is disappointing because this change will result in extra costs for most cardholders who wish to bring guests. Couples and families traveling together will have to decide whether it's worth it to pay extra money to visit a lounge together.

For frequent travelers, these guest fees can add up and impact their finances. If you know you won't be able to meet the spending requirements to earn free guest privileges, you should consider whether it makes sense to bring guests and pay these fees.

Review your credit card benefits

Rewards credit cards offer valuable perks. But credit card issuers can change benefits at any time. It's a good idea to review your credit card benefits regularly, so you know when changes happen. Understanding your current benefits can help you get more value out of your card.

If you're not using travel credit cards, you're missing out. You can earn rewards when you spend with your card and take advantage of benefits that make your travel experiences more enjoyable and less stressful. Check out our list of the best travel credit cards to learn more.