Flying can be very stressful. All those long lines, security checks, and flight delays are just a lot to deal with. Fortunately, Priority Pass lounges can make your airport experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
Want to get some work done before your flight? Plug in your laptop and connect to the lounge’s free Wifi while sipping your drink.
Tired after a long flight? Plop into a cozy sofa while watching TV or take that needed power nap.
Today, we’ll go into detail on what Priority Pass Lounges are. We’ll discuss how to access these exclusive lounges, explore their various locations, and discover the many benefits they offer.
What are Priority Pass Lounges?
Priority Pass boasts an extensive network of 1,300 lounges in 600+ airports across 150 countries.
These lounges include Plaza Premium, The Club, Minute Suites, Aspire, and more.
Additionally, Priority Pass also gives you access to non-lounge partners like Gameway (gaming zones) and Be Relax Spa (spa services).
Priority Pass Benefits
Having a Priority Pass membership is definitely worth having for travelers, especially if you fly a lot.
Here are the main benefits you’ll enjoy in most Priority Pass lounges:
- Free beverages and pre-flight snacks.
- Hot food in select lounges.
- Free alcoholic drinks in most lounges.
- Free Wi-Fi.
- Power outlets and USB ports for mobile devices and laptops.
- Comfortable seats and relaxing spaces for work and relaxation.
Just remember that the quality of Priority Pass lounges varies from one location to another.
For example, the Turkish Airlines lounge in Washington, DC flaunts a spacious, fancy space and offers delicious, warm food and a cozy bar.
On the other hand, the Swissport Lounge in Chicago, Illinois only provides a self-serve selection of basic snacks and drinks.
Priority Pass Paid Membership
Buying a Priority Pass annual membership is also another option.
There are three types of memberships that Priority Pass offers:
- Standard: This plan costs $99/year and members must pay $35 per visit.
- Standard Plus: This plan costs $329/year and members will get 10 Free visits. Succeeding visits will cost $35 per visit.
- Prestige: This plan costs $469/year and gives you unlimited member visits for free.
Regardless of the plan you have, members who plan to bring guests will have to pay $35 per guest per visit.
How to Use Priority Pass
Once you’ve signed up for a membership, you’ll automatically receive a digital card in your Priority Pass account. You’ll also receive a physical card which typically arrives within a week.
Members who have a credit card with complimentary Priority Pass Select membership must register and activate their membership. You can’t just show your credit card to enter a lounge.
Upon logging into your online credit card account, go to Card Benefits > Priority Pass > Register. Go over the terms of your membership after registering successfully to understand all included perks.
Priority Pass App
Members can download the Priority Pass app on their phones to easily find lounges they want to visit. The app also provides a digital membership card for lounge entry. It’s available for Apple and Android users.
Lounge Requirements
There are three things that you need to bring before you show up at a Priority Pass lounge.
- Same-day boarding pass for your flight
- Valid ID
- Priority Pass Card or Digital Membership (works at most lounges)
Lounge Restrictions
There are several potential restrictions on using Priority Pass that you should be aware of. Most of these restrictions are listed on the Priority Pass website or on their mobile app.
Overcapacity: Many lounges, especially in the U.S., may be full when you try to visit. These lounge either will put you on a waitlist or deny entry temporarily. For example, I frequent The Club CLT, and there’s almost always a 15-30 minute to get in.
Duration Restrictions: Many lounges restrict you to a maximum stay of 2-3 hours to prevent overcrowding. Other non-traditional lounges like Minute Suites (private rooms) and Gameway (video games) limit you to one hour, with the ability to pay for subsequent hours.
Hourly Restrictions: Airline-specific lounges (e.g., Lufthansa Lounges) may restrict the hours you can visit. For example, if Lufthansa has several flights leaving at 4:00 PM, they may restrict access between 1 PM and 4:00 PM to allow their business and first-class passengers the ability to use a less busy airport lounge. During the other hours, Priority Pass helps airlines offset the fixed costs of running a lounge.
Paid Membership Restrictions: A few lounges are limited to paid Priority Pass memberships (i.e., membership not via a credit card). These include Jabberbox (private workspaces) and ROAM Fitness.
The Verdict
Priority Pass can get you access to thousands of airport lounges worldwide. Some of these lounges may have restrictions, so you should read the fine print before visiting.
The best way to get a membership is via a credit card because so many great cards offer it as a benefit. My favorites are the Chase Sapphire Reserve® , Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, and American Express Platinum Card®.
