When the Capital One Venture X Credit Card launched in late 2021, I was one of the first to apply — and it’s been a staple in my wallet ever since.
As a frequent traveler, I’ve used this card extensively over the past three years, taking full advantage of its valuable travel perks, premium lounge access and strong earning potential.
So, it’s no surprise that The Points Guy crowned Venture X as the Best Premium Travel Credit Card at the 2024 TPG Awards.
In this guide, I’ll break down exactly what makes this card stand out, share my personal experiences and help you decide whether it deserves a spot in your wallet, too.
Valuable early spend bonus
Venture X has one of the most valuable early spend bonuses out there. New cardholders can earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months from account opening.
So, what can those miles get you? One of the simplest redemption options is to cover travel purchases made on your Venture X card in the last 90 days. So, you could use the 75,000-mile early spend bonus to cover a $750 Airbnb stay or a $750 flight to Japan.
You can also transfer your miles to one of Capital One’s 15-plus airline and hotel partners. Last year, I converted 50,000 miles into Flying Blue miles to fly business class back from the Paris Olympics. During the 11-hour Air France flight, I savored French cuisine, experienced warm hospitality and took an afternoon nap before arriving home. These are only two examples of the many ways you can redeem your miles.
Reasonable annual fee
Venture X’s $395 annual fee (see rates and fees) is lower than some of its premium card competitors, and two benefits, in particular, more than make up for it, meaning this card is worth holding onto year after year.
First, the $300 annual travel credit can be used to book flights, hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars through Capital One Travel. Terms apply. That drops the effective annual fee to $95. I used this year’s travel credit to fully cover the cost of a weeklong Hertz car rental — and I got a car upgrade because this card also grants you top-tier Hertz President’s Circle status*. Terms apply.
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You’ll also receive 10,000 bonus miles on your first card anniversary and then every year after that, which Capital One values at $100.
With these two perks, worth $400 together, you’re effectively being “paid” $5 to hold the card each year.
Premium lounge access
Capital One has a fast-growing lounge network, with lounges open at Denver International Airport (DEN), Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas, Dulles International Airport (IAD) near Washington, D.C., and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), which I visit frequently, as I’m based in Texas.
Last year, Capital One debuted an innovative, high-end dining concept called the “Capital One Landing” at D.C.’s Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA). Here, you can enjoy an a la carte menu curated by renowned Spanish American chef José Andrés, as well as signature cocktails and barista-made coffee.
A second Capital One Landing at New York City’s LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and a full lounge at the city’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) are also scheduled to arrive soon.
On top of that, cardholders receive unlimited access for themselves and up to two guests to 1,300-plus participating Priority Pass™ lounges around the world.**
High earning rates
Venture X is my go-to card for everyday purchases, especially when traveling abroad. It earns 2 miles per dollar spent on almost everything — from groceries to gas to concert tickets — while charging no foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees).
And that earning rate is boosted when you book through Capital One Travel. You’ll earn 5 miles per dollar spent on flights and vacation rentals and 10 miles per dollar spent on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel.
Plus, if the price of a flight booked through Capital One Travel drops in the 10 days after you buy it, Capital One will automatically refund you the difference (up to $50) in the form of a travel credit.
And if you want to elevate your trip even further, Venture X cardholders have access to the Premier Collection through Capital One Travel, a curated list of luxury hotels, resorts and vacation rentals that come with exclusive benefits, including:
- Enjoy daily breakfast for two (hotels only)
- A $100 property credit that can cover extras like spa services, dinner or drinks
- A room upgrade, early check-in and late checkout (subject to availability)
Fast-track airport security
If you want to get through airport security and customs more quickly, Venture X can help. Every four years, you’ll receive a credit of up to $120 for a TSA PreCheck or Global Entry membership, which offers expedited security and customs screening.
My suggestion is to apply for Global Entry, as it includes a complimentary TSA PreCheck membership anyway. I used Venture X to cover my $120 Global Entry renewal at the start of 2025, allowing me to use both services through 2029.
Bottom line
If you’re a frequent traveler who values premium perks, effortless rewards and a seamless airport experience, Venture X is a top-tier choice. That’s why it’s been in my wallet since it launched in late 2021.
With a generous early spend bonus, credits that fully offset the annual fee and competitive earning rates — especially on travel purchases — you’ll maximize every dollar spent. Plus, Capital One’s expanding lounge network and Priority Pass membership ensure you’ll travel in style wherever you go.
Ready to elevate your travel experience? Read our full review to dive into the details and learn more about Venture X — your next adventure starts now.
*Upon enrollment, accessible through the Capital One website or mobile app, eligible cardholders will remain at that status level through the duration of the offer. Please note, enrolling through the normal Hertz Gold Plus Rewards enrollment process (e.g., at Hertz.com) will not automatically detect a cardholder as being eligible for the program and cardholders will not be automatically upgraded to the applicable status tier. Terms and exclusions apply.
**Prices, amenities and hours of operation are subject to change at any time and without prior notice. Cardholders will not be compensated for changes in locations, rates or policies. Access is not guaranteed and is subject to space availability. To qualify for complimentary or discounted Lounge and Landing access, card accounts must be in good standing and cardholders must present their eligible Capital One card. Additionally, cardholders and guests must present a boarding pass with a confirmed seat assignment for a departing or connecting same-day flight. We will not admit cardholders or guests with boarding passes for arriving flights with no connection or with no intent on traveling to another destination. Guests may enter up to 3 hours before their departure time. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Must be of legal drinking age to consume alcoholic beverages. Please drink responsibly. Any person displaying or participating in inappropriate behavior or failing to adhere to Lounge and Landings rules, including, but not limited to, conduct that is disruptive, abusive or violent is subject to removal. Learn more about Capital One Lounge and Landing access policies here.
