Bad news for Capital One Venture X and Venture X Business cardholders: as of March 1, 2025, complimentary access to Plaza Premium lounges will no longer be part of your card benefits.
What’s Changing?
Previously, Venture X and Venture X Business cardholders could enjoy free access to the Plaza Premium Group’s network of airport lounges. However, starting March 1, 2025, this benefit will no longer be available. Capital One has communicated that most Plaza Premium lounges can still be accessed via your Priority Pass membership, which remains a benefit of these cards. This change essentially shifts the way you can access these spaces, though it’s worth noting that not all Plaza Premium lounges accept Priority Pass.
Additionally, Capital One has updated its website to clarify that, while cardholders will still be able to bring guests into the lounges, the number of complimentary guests to Priority Pass locations is now limited to two. This marks a significant change from the previously unlimited guest access, which could impact travelers who frequently traveled with larger groups.
Why It Matters
Losing direct access to Plaza Premium lounges could feel like a downgrade for many Venture X users, especially those who frequently relied on these lounges as part of their travel routine.
Plaza Premium’s history with Priority Pass—pulling out of the program in 2021 and rejoining in 2023—highlights potential inconsistencies, making it less of a seamless solution for cardholders.
How Does This Compare to Other Cards?
For those loyal to cards offering direct lounge access, American Express Platinum cardholders enjoy direct access to Plaza Premium lounges, bypassing the need for Priority Pass altogether.
This could make a big difference for travelers who want consistent access to these spaces without relying on third-party memberships. On the other hand, many other cards, like the Venture X and Sapphire Reserve, depend on Priority Pass for access.
Changes to Guest Access
In addition to losing direct Plaza Premium lounge access, Capital One has also made a significant update to the guest policy for Venture X and Venture X Business cardholders.
Previously, cardholders could bring an unlimited number of guests into Priority Pass lounges. However, this benefit will be capped at two complimentary guests per visit, matching the policy for Capital One Lounges. This change could be a setback for travelers who regularly travel with larger groups and are accustomed to the flexibility of bringing more people into the lounge without an extra charge.
How to Adapt
If you’re a Venture X or Venture X Business cardholder, here’s how you can adjust to this change:
- Check Your Priority Pass Access: Ensure your membership is active and current. Before traveling, confirm which lounges in your itinerary’s airports accept Priority Pass. Remember that after enrolling, you can use your Venture X card to enter the lounge.
- Plan for Alternatives: Explore other lounges accessible with Priority Pass or consider additional lounge membership programs if you frequently travel through airports with limited Priority Pass options.
- Reevaluate Your Card Benefits: This change might prompt you to reevaluate the overall value of the Venture X or Venture X Business cards. If lounge access is a major factor in your decision to keep the card, this could be a good time to explore alternatives.
Final Thoughts
While the loss of Plaza Premium lounge access is disappointing, the Venture X and Venture X Business cards still offer substantial value. However, this news underscores the importance of staying informed about changes to card benefits to ensure your travel plans align with the perks you rely on.
What do you think about this change? Will it affect how you use your Venture X card? Let’s discuss in the comments!
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