Capital One Venture X Lounge Access Devalued: No More Free Guests or AU Perks
Big changes are coming for Capital One Venture X cardholders. Starting June 2025, free lounge access for guests and authorized users (AUs) will be removed. This update has surprised many, especially since the card was known for its generous lounge perks.
Capital One lounges were designed to offer premium comforts, great food, clean showers, and peaceful workspaces. But with lounges getting too crowded and wait times growing, the company is scaling back access.
Now, bringing a guest will come with a fee, and AUs won’t get in for free anymore. It’s a component of a larger shift in the credit card worldwide, fewer swag, more uniqueness.
See why it’s happening, and what it means for you. Thinking about keeping or canceling your card? Here’s what you need to know.
History of Capital One Venture X Lounges Benefits
Original Lounge Advantages
When revenue One introduced the Venture X card in 2021, it crafted a segment for itself when it came to lounge access with very generous benefits. Cardholders were authorized to the following:
- Free guest access to bring two companions per visit.
- Approved users would earn the same lounge advantages at no additional charges.
That is what led to the Venture X visa becoming a top choice among luxuries and comfort for frequent travelers.
Capital One Lounge Network
Expanding its lounge network, Capital One has really sought to offer modern spaces wherein travelers could relax and recharge. Some notable locations of lounges are:
- Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
- Denver International Airport (DEN)
- Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
Reasons Behind the Policy Changes
To Address Lounge Overcrowding
One major reason behind the change is overcrowding. With so many premium credit cards now offering lounge access, airport lounges have become increasingly packed. Capital One aims to improve the experience by limiting free guest access and tightening entry rules.
Industry-Wide Phenomena
This isn’t just a Capital One issue, it’s happening across the industry. American Express, for example, now requires cardholders to meet certain spending thresholds to keep lounge access. Chase has also introduced guest fees for its Sapphire Reserve cardholders to manage lounge crowding.
Financial Factors
There’s also a financial side to the decision. Offering high-end lounge perks comes at a cost. By charging for guests and authorized users, Capital One can better balance the quality of its services with long-term profitability.
Effects on Cardholders
Reactions from Cardholders
Many Venture X cardholders are disappointed about losing free lounge access for guests and authorized users. This perk was a big reason they chose the card, and now, with it gone, many are starting to rethink if the card is still worth it.
Value Proposition of the Venture X Card
The Venture X credit card now provides these perks:
- Annual travel credit worth $300.
- 10,000 bonus miles on every anniversary of the account.
- Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.
- Access at rates that compete with Capital One Travel.
Users are left to figure out if such benefits, taken together with the changes made in lounge access, would be really worth the $395 annual fee.
Options for Affected Users
Some good alternative cards have better lounge access:
- The Platinum Card from American Express: Access to the Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs, and Priority Pass lounges; however, it underwent some modifications recently.
- Chase Sapphire Reserve: Includes Priority Pass Select membership with guest access and $300 in annual travel credits.
- Standalone Lounge Memberships: For regular travelers, it might be best to purchase single lounge memberships, as this could suit their travel style better.
Other Changes in the Credit Card Industry
Promoting Members-Only Privileges
Credit card companies are limiting lounge access to create more exclusive rewards. This helps provide better service to those who spend the most by reducing overcrowding.
Expectations and Adjustments by Consumers
As benefits change, travelers are shifting what they prioritize. Some still value easy lounge access, while others prefer rewards that better fit their travel habits.
The Future of Lounge Access
More changes may be coming, like extra fees, stricter entry rules, or spending requirements to qualify for premium perks.
Conclusion
Capital One Venture X’s lounge changes show how premium card perks are evolving. Removing free guest and authorized user access helps control overcrowding and maintain a quality experience. While a few cardholders are disappointed, the card still gives solid advantages for frequent travelers. If lounge accessibility is a priority for you, it’s worth reconsidering your choices. Staying updated on these changes helps you choose the best rewards as the industry shifts.
FAQs
From February 1, 2026, the revenue One Venture X card allows you to bring 2 guests to Capital One Lounges, and you will pay $45 per elder and $25 per child aged 2–17.
Opening February 1, 2026, Venture X cardholders must pay more for lounge accessibility. Authorized users now pay $125 per year and can access revenue One and Priority Pass lounges. Guests will pay $25 per child and $45 per elder at revenue One Lounge, and $35 each at Priority Pass lounges. These changes aim to reduce crowding and improve the lounge experience.
Lounge access can be utilized by more than one individual. From February 1, 2026, guests will have to purchase their entry at Capital One Venture X, since free guest access has been removed.
Disclaimer:
This content is for general information only; do not take it as financial advice. Always do your research before making any financial decisions.