Capital One is joining American Express (Centurion Lounge) in providing travelers increased visibility to lounge capacity. As of February 16th, 2024, travelers wanting to visit a Capital One lounge are able to view the current capacity via the Capital One mobile app.

The Capital One Lounge Experience

In 2021, Capital One opened the first Capital One lounge at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). The lounge quickly became a fan favorite due to the extensive food selection, exclusive drink menu, ample space for rest and relaxation (including nap pods), and even an exercise room complete with Peloton stations. Since that time, Capital One opened two additional lounges in Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Denver International Airport (DEN).

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card and Capital One Venture X Business credit card holders are able to access the lounges free of charge along with two guests. However, guests without the appropriate Capital One credit card can pay $65 for single-use lounge access. Children under the age of 2 years may enter with their parents or caregiver at no additional charge.

Credit. Capital One. Capital One Lounge Kiosk.

Capital One Real-Time Lounge Capacity Tracker

The Capital One mobile app now offers travelers the ability to view the current Capital One lounge capacity as well as join a waitlist as needed. If the lounge is at capacity, travelers with the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card or Capital One Venture X Business credit card may join a virtual waitlist for lounge access directly in the Capital One app.

Here are the steps to join the virtual waitlist in the Capital One app:

1. Open the Capital One app and navigate to the “Travel” section
2. In the “Travel” section, select “Lounges”
3. Select the relevant Capital One lounge and view capacity
4. If the lounge is at capacity, select “Join Waitlist”
5. Enter your First Name, Phone Number, and Number of Guests

Credit. The Points Guy. Capital One App – Lounge Portal.

Credit. The Points Guy. Capital One App – Lounge Waitlist.

Once a lounge spot opens, you receive a text notification and have 15 minutes to enter the lounge. However, you also have the option to indicate you are running late or that you are no longer coming.

Credit. The Points Guy. Capital One App – Text Message Alert.

Final Thoughts

While the addition of lounge capacity tracking to the Capital One mobile app is not a “game-changer,” it definitely is a nice feature. As Capital One lounges continue to increase in popularity, the ability to view lounge capacity, and potential wait times, at a given point in time is crucial. This holds especially true for travelers who like to hop between lounges before a flight.