22 Airport Lounge Secrets for Access Without Elite Status

13. Become an Authorized User on a Premium Card

Instead of paying the full annual fee for a top-tier travel card yourself, see if a friend or family member with one can add you as an authorized user. Cards like the Amex Platinum or Capital One Venture X often extend key benefits, including Priority Pass membership or access to their own branded lounges, to authorized users for a significantly lower fee than getting a primary card. You get your own membership card and access rights, making it a cost-effective way to piggyback into comfort.