Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card Benefits Facing Major Changes in 2026
Since its debut, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has captured the attention of travelers, primarily due to its attractive airport lounge access policies. However, as of February 1, 2026, several key benefits associated with this premium travel rewards card will undergo significant modifications or be eliminated entirely.
Significant Lounge Access Changes Coming
One of the most notable adjustments is the loss of complimentary airport lounge access for authorized users. Initially celebrated for allowing users to share benefits, this change marks a pivotal moment for cardholders who are accustomed to enjoying these perks with companions. Authorized users, effective from the stated date, will no longer reap the benefits of free lounge entry, which was a hallmark feature when the card launched in 2021.
Additionally, primary cardholders will also lose the privilege of bringing guest(s) into lounges within the Priority Pass network at no extra charge. However, those who hold the Capital One Venture X Business card will remain intact, enabling them to include two guests in Priority Pass lounges without incurring costs.
“As airport lounges continue to grow in popularity across the industry, we’ve seen our customers increasingly encounter wait times to enter them,” Capital One noted in an official statement, indicating a rationale behind the impending changes.
This shift in policy aligns with recent trends observed in the industry, particularly steps taken by American Express, which has imposed limitations to manage guest access in its Centurion lounges.
How Do These Changes Impact Different Travelers?
If You Travel with Others
From February 1, 2026, travelers using the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card will face new constraints regarding guest access in lounges. To restore the complimentary guest-entry privilege, cardholders will now need to spend a minimum of $75,000 on their card in a single calendar year. After achieving this spending threshold, users will regain the ability to bring in two guests free of charge to Capital One Lounges for the following calendar year. However, for Capital One Landings—described as sit-down restaurants instead of traditional lounges—this guest allowance will be reduced to one.
If You Have (or Are) an Authorized User
Although primary cardholders can still add authorized users at no cost, these additional cardholders will no longer benefit from complimentary lounge access. Instead, an annual fee of $125 will be required for each authorized user, empowering them with access to Capital One Lounges, Capital One Landings, and Priority Pass lounges.
For those holding existing additional cardholders on their accounts, it may be worth having discussions to assess the most suitable strategy going forward. Options could include authorized users agreeing to cover the $125 access fee or potentially seeking their own Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card or a different travel rewards card.
If You Have the Capital One Venture X Business Card
Starting February 1, 2026, similar restrictions will apply to the Capital One Venture X Business card holders regarding guest entry unless the spending threshold of $75,000 is met in a calendar year. Should users meet this requirement, guests will be subject to the same policy as before—permitting two guests for Lounges and one for Landings. Notably, the business version will still allow two free guests into Priority Pass lounges post-policy change.
Importantly, up to four additional cardholders can be added for a fee of $125 each, coming with their own Priority Pass memberships. This feature stands in stark contrast to how authorized users on the regular Venture X card will be treated moving forward.
If You’re Willing to Pay for Guests
For those who plan on bringing additional guests, Capital One is strategically reducing prices for minors across both the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card and the Capital One Venture X Business offerings. The fee for additional adult guests will continue to be set at a discounted rate of $45 per visit, compared to the standard $90. For minors aged 17 and under, the fee will drop to $25, while infants under 2 can enjoy complimentary access. Additional guests for Priority Pass lounges will cost $35 each.
Is the Capital One Venture X Still a Valuable Option?
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has long been distinguished by its robust lounge access offerings for both primary and authorized users. Yet, the upcoming changes raise pivotal questions regarding its value, especially for those who typically travel with family or friends. Given the growing number of restrictions, potential cardholders should weigh their options carefully.
While the card’s lack of widespread lounge locations could be a consideration, competitors like American Express and Chase have partnered with major airlines such as Delta Air Lines and Air Canada to broaden lounge access for their cardholders—a feature that Capital One does not currently provide.
Nonetheless, with an annual fee of $395, the Capital One premium travel card still presents a favorable option for many travelers. It includes a $300 annual travel credit applicable in Capital One’s travel portal and a bonus of 10,000 miles each year upon account anniversary. Additionally, cardholders can earn 2 miles for every dollar spent across all purchases—making it appealing for individuals seeking a single card to manage their travel rewards without the complications of multiple programs.
Moreover, miles accumulated can be redeemed at a rate of 1 cent per mile in the travel portal or be transferred to various hotel and airline partners within Capital One’s extensive network. This structure contrasts with other high-end travel cards, which often bury their value in complex restrictions and hard-to-track benefits.
By effectively utilizing the $300 travel credit and the accrued bonus miles, cardholders can essentially offset the total annual fee, thereby making the card a pragmatic choice for frequent travelers.
An Alternate Option: The Chase Sapphire Reserve
If lounge access remains a non-negotiable priority and you’re contemplating a switch from your Capital One card, consider the Chase Sapphire Reserve. This card boasts its own esteemed lounge network, allowing users to bring in two guests free to both the Priority Pass lounges and exclusive Chase Sapphire Lounges by The Club.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve does come with a heavier annual fee of $550, alongside a $75 charge for authorized user access, who will also receive their own Priority Pass memberships. Other notable advantages include earning 3 points per dollar spent on travel and dining purchases and a $300 annual travel credit that is not confined to the Chase travel portal, thus providing greater flexibility.
Maximize Your Rewards
For individuals keen on maximizing their travel rewards, understanding the evolving perks and limitations of travel credit cards is crucial. The financing landscape is becoming increasingly competitive, making it essential for consumers to stay informed on the various offerings available from leading card issuers.
Navigating these changes thoughtfully will ensure that travelers can effectively choose the best travel credit card suited to their unique needs, ultimately enhancing their travel experience.