What’s great about airport lounge access?
The mysterious allure of an airport lounge leaves many travelers bewildered and wondering how to gain access to these exclusive spots. Airport lounges offer weary travelers access to complimentary snacks, free drinks, Wi-Fi, and even shower facilities. They are the perfect place to freshen up and take the edge off a long journey.
Airport lounges may not be as exclusive as you might think. In fact, many credit card providers offer them as part of their rewards program. We’ve put together a list of the best ways for you to get airport lounge access next time you travel.
How to get airport lounge access?
Get a single-day airport lounge pass
Many airports around the world provide single-day lounge passes so you can enjoy the amenities as you’re passing through. From Singapore’s Changi International– one of the world’s best airports to Laos’s Luang Prabang International – one of the smallest airports in the world- almost all airports today offer single-day airport lounge pass for travellers.
Depending on the carrier, a single-day airport lounge pass can range between $30 to $75 per visit. It may seem like a steep upfront cost, but it may work out less than you would spend on food and drink in the airport anyway.
Be sure to check the carrier’s website before you book as some enlist more locations than others. For example, Delta has 50 locations in the U.S. and a hundred more partner lounges worldwide. Also, consider that many lounges place a limit on the amount of time you can spend there.
Purchase a membership
If you regularly travel, then purchasing an airport lounge membership card should be a guilt-free experience. Their memberships can range from $350 to $650, and you will most likely have to pay a joining fee.
Even if you fly with one airline exclusively, this option is great because a lot of carriers partner with each other. So if your carrier doesn’t have a lounge at the airport you are in, then you can use a partner lounge instead. Before committing, make sure to check the destinations available to see if it is worthwhile.
Use third parties
Often third-party vendors like the ones you book travel packages through, serve up airport lounge access to their most loyal customers. Schemes like the one eBooker offer will reward you with access after numerous purchases. Or you could go with companies like Priority Pass, Lounge Pass, and Loungebuddy, where you can purchase both long and short term lounge access from as little as $25.
Utilize your credit card
One of the many benefits of credit cards is their rewards schemes. They come in all shapes and sizes, offering cashback, discounts, and even airport lounge access. If you are considering getting a credit card to take advantage of their airport lounges passes, it may not be worth it. But along with all the other benefits, they work out to be a cost-effective way to supercharge your travel experience.
American Express is renowned for its fantastic airport lounge offers, but make sure to check with your banking provider before flying to see if they offer the service and whether your destination is included.
Opt for a public lounge
Not all lounges are privately owned by airline carriers. A lot of airports offer a pay to play model with a single per-visit charge that doesn’t involve signing up for costly or lengthy memberships. These airport lounges typically include the same amenities but don’t offer alcoholic drinks as part of the deal.
Rates will usually start at around $20 for the day, but some offer a variety of upgrades or charge an hourly rate. These aren’t as common as private airport lounges, so you will need to check ahead of time.
Achieve elite status
Elite Status is something sought after by most seasoned flyers. Once you achieve Elite Status, you begin to receive bonuses that include free upgrades, checked baggage, and even discounted flights. Of course on top of these, you get access to airport lounges across the globe.
Achieving Elite Status is calculated differently on every airline, so read the ins and outs before picking one. Choosing a Star Alliance membership is a good call, as it gives you access to the other partners as well. Bare in mind its long process that requires significant travel miles.
Be a guest
Unlike the other methods on our list, being a guest requires no preparation or forethought. You simply have to tag along with someone who is part of a frequent flyer program, and you can go into the airport lounge too.
The only caveat for this option is that it typically has to be an international flight. The rules also differ slightly if your partner isn’t a frequent flyer and has gotten their access through a credit card or ticket purchase. Make sure to check the airport lounge access rules beforehand.
Should you use an airport lounge?
People often sight the cost of airport lounges as a way to discourage people from giving them a try. However, if you travel regularly, they are worth it, and they breathe some life into a long journey. For short-haul flights, let loose and treat yourself to a luxury airport lounge experience.
