How to Access Airport Lounges
Airport lounge access has its perks, such as free food, beverages, Wi-Fi, and entertainment. Additionally, lounge agents are available to assist you if your flight is delayed or canceled, or if you have a change of plans. If you’re on a layover between long international flights, some airport lounges even feature showers and spa services to refresh before your final destination.
A common misconception is that airport lounges are only for elite travelers. However, if you’re savvy, there are numerous ways for everyday travelers to gain access to airport lounges worldwide. If you’re looking to enjoy the luxurious experience of a lounge while waiting for your next flight, consider the following tips and tricks.
1. Buy a Day Pass
Annual airport lounge passes can be quite costly if you haven’t earned them through an elite tier. Therefore, if you wish to enjoy the VIP lounge experience just a few times each year, consider purchasing a day pass as needed. Moreover, to save even more, plan ahead: some airlines offer discounted day passes when you purchase your ticket instead of buying the pass at the airport. Day pass prices can vary, typically hovering around $50. For instance, United Club lounge passes are priced at $59, while Alaska Airlines charges $45 per day.
2. Join an Independent Lounge Access Program
If you haven’t reached elite status in your preferred airline loyalty program, an option of purchasing annual memberships to U.S. airline lounges is available, ranging from $400 to $600. Given that the average day pass costs around $50, this can be a fantastic option for those who travel at least five times a year. However, for infrequent travelers, bypassing airline lounges for more affordable memberships through independent airport lounge networks can be beneficial. For example, LoungePass starts at only $13.50 per pass, allowing travelers to avoid annual fees. Moreover, LoungePass provides access to over 300 lounges in 190 airports across the globe. Priority Pass also offers a range of memberships from pay-as-you-go to all-inclusive options. Starting at $99 per year, it includes additional fees of $27 per lounge visit, with the highest tier priced at $399 a year for unlimited access.
Priority Pass encompasses more than 900 lounges worldwide and collaborates with various credit card companies, such as Citi Prestige and American Express Platinum, providing complimentary or discounted memberships to cardholders.
3. Take Advantage of Travel Credit Card Perks
Numerous travel rewards credit cards come with complimentary or discounted airport lounge access as a membership benefit. For instance, American Express Platinum offers complimentary access to over 900 airport lounges, including The Centurion lounge network and Delta Sky Club. Furthermore, immediate family and up to two companions can enjoy the lounge’s benefits.
Additionally, United MileagePlus® Club cardholders and their eligible travel companions can relax and enjoy complimentary food and beverages at all United Club locations and participating Star Alliance lounges globally. The Citi Executive/AAdvantage World Elite MasterCard not only grants lounge access but also allows cardholders to earn 50,000 AAdvantage bonus miles after making $5,000 in purchases within the first three months.
If you smoke and are looking for designated areas, various airports offer smoking lounges for travelers.
