Everything you need to know about the Priority Pass airport lounge program - The Points Guy (2024)

This post has been updated with information that the Chase Sapphire Reserve will lose Priority Pass restaurant access from July 1, 2024.

Lounge access: It's not just for the rich and famous. It's for anyone who wants to make their airport travel experience more luxurious and less stressful.

Many top rewards credit cards offer access to the worldwide Priority Pass. Although you may already have a Priority Pass card in your wallet or app on your phone, it's sometimes unclear what that means and what's included in your membership.

It's also worth noting that Priority Pass membership isn't automatic; if you have a credit card that offers membership, you still need to enroll to activate your membership benefits.

Let's take a closer look at the different levels of Priority Pass membership, which cards offer the benefit and how to get the most out of your access.

Everything you need to know about the Priority Pass airport lounge program - The Points Guy (1)

What is Priority Pass?

Priority Pass is a network of airport lounges, minisuites and even airport restaurants. As of this writing, it boasts 1,400 eligible locations in over 600 cities in 148 countries.

Although those numbers are impressive, many lounges are outside the U.S.

So, while the network is large, there's no guarantee you'll have access to a lounge on every trip you take. However, there's a good chance Priority Pass can help you on many of your trips.

Priority Pass lounges are located at more than 40 U.S. airports, and some have multiple lounges, including:

Everything you need to know about the Priority Pass airport lounge program - The Points Guy (2)

Daily Newsletter

Reward your inbox with the TPG Daily newsletter

Join over 700,000 readers for breaking news, in-depth guides and exclusive deals from TPG’s experts

  • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
  • Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
  • Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)
  • Charleston International Airport (CHS)
  • Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
  • Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
  • Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
  • Las Vegas' Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
  • Miami International Airport (MIA)
  • Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP)
  • New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
  • Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
  • Orlando International Airport (MCO)
  • San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
  • St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)
  • Washington's Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Related: Best Priority Pass lounges in the US

Traveling internationally, you may find lounges in small to midsize airports such as Guanacaste Airport (LIR) in Liberia, Costa Rica, and Entebbe International Airport (EBB) in Entebbe, Uganda. There's even a lounge with a pool in Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ).

Everything you need to know about the Priority Pass airport lounge program - The Points Guy (3)

The facilities in the Priority Pass network vary by owner and location. Some lounges, like The Club ATL in Atlanta, are independent facilities, while others are affiliated with airlines. Both the Lufthansa Business Lounge in Detroit and the Air France Lounge in Boston are some examples of this.

If you are traveling with guests and children, you'll want to check the rules of your desired lounge location and your Priority Pass membership to find out if there will be an additional charge and if there is a guest limit.

Priority Pass restaurants and minisuites

Priority Pass also has a partnership with some airport restaurants, minisuites and more, allowing members to enjoy perks at locations that don't have a traditional lounge or the chance to eat at a restaurant rather than an airport lounge for a change.

American Express-issued Priority Pass memberships no longer include the restaurant benefit, and Capital One removed this benefit at the start of 2023 for personal Venture X cardholders.

Similarly, the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite® Card* offers four Priority Pass visits per year, but these cannot be used for Priority Pass restaurants, according to a spokesperson for U.S. Bank.

The credit cards offering Priority Pass memberships that still include non-lounge visits, such as at spas and restaurants, include:

  • Capital One Venture X Business (only for eligible existing cardholders, not for new applicants)
  • Chase Sapphire Reserve (restaurant access ends June 30)
  • Citi Prestige® Card (no longer open to new applicants)*
  • The Ritz-Carlton Credit Card* (restaurant access ends June 30)
  • UBS Visa Infinite Card*

*The information for these cards has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

There currently are more than 30 Priority Pass-participating airport restaurants within the U.S., and more are available internationally. Some examples include:

Everything you need to know about the Priority Pass airport lounge program - The Points Guy (4)

The amount of the Priority Pass restaurant credit varies, but it averages $28 per person. Some restaurants also cap the number of guests. If you have one member and one included guest on your membership, then you may be able to enjoy $56 worth of food and drinks for your table by swiping your Priority Pass card from a credit card such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve.

At bars and restaurants, gratuity is not included, so be sure to tip on the bill amount before the credit is applied. Many locations do not allow you to take items to go, so it might not be the best option if you are in a rush.

Priority Pass also has some less conventional airport options. For example, the PGA MSP Lounge at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) offers free access to a putting green, along with golf lessons and a golf simulator available for a fee. This lounge also offers a $15 credit that can be applied toward food and drinks or to a golf experience. Remember that this location has the same limitations as other non-lounge visits mentioned above.

Everything you need to know about the Priority Pass airport lounge program - The Points Guy (5)

Finally, Priority Pass provides access to Minute Suites in Atlanta, Charlotte, Salt Lake City, Dallas-Fort Worth and Philadelphia. The first hour is included with your Priority Pass membership, and additional hours can be rented at a discounted rate of $34.

On the other side of the world, sleep pods are available at Dubai International Airport (DXB) for two to three hours, depending on the time of day.

Related: The best Priority Pass lounges around the world

What is the difference between Priority Pass and Priority Pass Select?

There's a lot of confusion surrounding the terms "Priority Pass" and "Priority Pass Select," so we want to clear the air.

Priority Pass is the name of the company that offers memberships to lounges in its network. You can purchase Priority Pass memberships directly on the site, with annual fees starting at $99. Here's a breakdown of the membership options:

  • Standard membership: $99 per year; includes visits for $35 each for the member and any guests.
  • Standard Plus membership: $329 per year; includes 10 free visits, with subsequent visits for $35 each (the same price as all guest visits).
  • Prestige membership: $469 per year; all visits are included for the member, though guests are charged $35 per visit.

Meanwhile, many U.S. credit cards offer club access benefits called Priority Pass Select. Some are for just one person, while others include guests. In either case, Priority Pass and Priority Pass Select members can pay for additional guests beyond what is included with their membership.

Related: Is a Priority Pass lounge membership actually worth it?

Everything you need to know about the Priority Pass airport lounge program - The Points Guy (6)

Credit cards that offer Priority Pass Select memberships

These are multiple credit cards through which you can get a Priority Pass Select membership.

These include not only premium travel cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve and The Platinum Card® from American Express (enrollment required) but also hotel credit cards like the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card (enrollment is required) and the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, which even includes two guests.

How to use Priority Pass benefits

Once you have a card with a Priority Pass Select membership, you can't just present your credit card at a participating lounge, restaurant or Minute Suite and receive complimentary access. First, you must enroll in the program using a link associated with your credit card account. Find the link under "Benefits" when you log in to your account.

Related: How to enroll in Priority Pass with eligible credit cards

Because it can take a week or two to receive your membership card in the mail, it's best to enroll as soon as you receive your credit card. In the meantime, you can download the Priority Pass app, which includes a digital membership card that you can use to access most, but not all, facilities.

Make sure to know if guests are permitted — and how many — ahead of your visit, because the reception team at the lounge won't know your specific guest privileges. Because you're never asked to present your credit card at the lounge, you might not know you're charged until you see your statement.

Everything you need to know about the Priority Pass airport lounge program - The Points Guy (7)

The lounge might be full

Your best-laid lounge plans may not work out. Nowadays, many travelers have lounge access, and the lounges sometimes reach capacity. Some lounges are available to Priority Pass members during select hours only. Check the Priority Pass website before your next trip for available locations and their hours — and don't be shocked if some lounges are temporarily at capacity during peak times and deny access to Priority Pass members.

Bottom line

Several cards offer Priority Pass Select membership as a benefit, which can improve your travel experience with goodies like free food and drinks, as well as a comfortable place to relax or get some work done.

Check specific details of your membership because the guest policies vary from card to card.

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Everything you need to know about the Priority Pass airport lounge program - The Points Guy (2024)

FAQs

Does Priority Pass give you free access to airport lounges? ›

As a Priority Pass Member, you'll have access to 1,600+ airport lounges and travel experiences worldwide, allowing you to enjoy your time at the airport on both your outbound and return journey. Many payment cards offer complimentary Priority Pass membership.

How does Priority Pass for airport lounges work? ›

Simply, present your Priority Pass membership card and boarding pass for access. As a Platinum Cardholder, you are entitled to a complimentary membership in Priority Pass. This allows you to wait for your flight in a relaxed atmosphere in one of the more than 1,200 Priority Pass lounges around the world.

How many times can you use Priority Pass in a day? ›

How many times can I use my Priority Pass membership? There is no limit to the number of lounge visits you can use in a day or a year as long as you have a valid same-day boarding pass. However, how many complimentary visits you have will depend on your membership.

What is the difference between airport lounge and Priority Pass? ›

What is the difference between airport lounges and Priority Pass? Airport lounges are designated areas in airports for travellers to relax before flights. Priority Pass is a membership programme that provides access to a global network of over 1,500 airport lounges worldwide, regardless of airline or ticket class.

Do you have to pay for food in Priority Pass lounge? ›

Refuel with Priority Pass

If you're feeling peckish or parched, you can refresh and refuel with a range of complimentary snacks and drinks in our lounges. Or use the Priority Pass app, to see what restaurants are available in your entitlements, giving you more choice while you wait for your flight.

Can you get into Delta lounge with a Priority Pass? ›

Priority Pass memberships do not include entrance into Delta Sky Clubs.

Can I sleep in Priority Pass lounge? ›

Cardholders can use their lounge visit entitlement to take advantage of one of the following options: 2 hour stay in a Power Nap Pod - plus 30 minutes luxury shower use (towels and shower amenities include), cotton sheet, pillow and a blanket OR a 3 hour stay in an Economy Sleep Pod (one person).

How many hours is Priority Pass lounge? ›

How long can you stay in a Priority Pass lounge for? Lounges in the Priority Pass network may have slightly different policies, but the general time limit is 3 hours. You can find information about a specific lounge, such as its hours and specific amenities, on the Priority Pass website or app.

Do you tip in Priority Pass lounge? ›

Tipping is not required in airport lounges

In the United States, for example, tipping most members of a wait staff and professionals who provide a service is customary. Despite this convention, tipping in a U.S. airport lounge is not required.

Can my wife use my Priority Pass? ›

Can my membership card be used by someone else? The Priority Pass membership card is non-transferable.

Can 2 people use same Priority Pass? ›

Yes, we encourage you to share the Priority Pass experience with your friends, family or business partners. Before doing so, we encourage you to check the Lounge Information under the lounge listing to verify whether the lounge you are visiting has a guest limit or whether you will be charged.

What is the difference between Priority Pass and Lounge Key? ›

A: LoungeKey is a network of worldwide lounges that allows entry by presenting an eligible MasterCard payment card. No membership card is required. Priority Pass is a network of worldwide lounges that allows members entry by presenting their valid Priority Pass membership card to gain entry to a lounge.

Is everything free in Priority Pass lounge? ›

Each lounge is slightly different in layout and features, but usually include amenities such as free food, drinks, Wi-Fi and plenty of comfortable places to relax. If you have a Priority Pass membership, you're able to utilize these lounges regardless of the airline you're flying or the class of your ticket.

Which bank accounts give access to airport lounges? ›

Airport lounge access is included with Barclays and NatWest premium bank accounts. Packaged bank accounts usually have a monthly fee, but they come with a host of perks which can make them very good value for money.

Can I bring a guest into a lounge with my Priority Pass? ›

Yes, Priority Pass does allow members to bring guests into lounges, though the number of guests and the fees may vary. Check your membership level and the specific lounge you want to visit beforehand to find out if there are any restrictions and consider signing up for a credit card that offers free guest access.

How to get free access to airport lounges? ›

How To Get Airport Lounge Access In India
  1. Airline Status: Elite Status.
  2. Business or First Class Ticket : Premium Class Travel.
  3. Credit Card Benefits : Co-Branded Credit Cards.
  4. Priority Pass or LoungeKey Membership: Independent Memberships.
  5. Airline Alliances: Alliance Benefits.
  6. Pay-Per-Use Lounges:One-Time Fee.
Sep 6, 2024

What is Priority Pass lounge charges? ›

* The access and usage at all Priority Pass lounges is complimentary only for Primary and Add on Priority. Pass holders. All guests visits using Priority pass would be charged at US $27 + GST per visit per guest. Visit www.prioritypass.com for list of lounge details.

Which card offers airport lounge access? ›

Credit cards for airport lounge access
S NoCredit Card
1SBI Platinum Corporate Card
2ICICI Bank Coral Rupay Credit Card
3HDFC Visa Signature Credit Card
4Tata Neu Plus HDFC Bank Credit Card
6 more rows
4 days ago

Which bank gives free access to airport lounges? ›

Airport lounge access is included with Barclays and NatWest premium bank accounts. Packaged bank accounts usually have a monthly fee, but they come with a host of perks which can make them very good value for money.

Top Articles
P-8 Poseidon raked wingtip - Airliners.net
LENZA, Pedro, Direito Constitucional Descomplicado, Ed Saraiva [PDF] | Online Book Share
Y3Df Circle
Cost of Attendance 2024-2025
solo - PDFCOFFEE.COM
Best Transmission Service Margate
Lawrence Ks Police Scanner
Mogadore Reservoir Boat Rental Price
Pomegranate Pear Cake Disposable
Craigslist Tampa Com
DAVITA INC Executive Salaries & Other Compensation | Salary.com
Skip The Games Orlando Fl
CLUTCHING HIS in a sentence | Sentences WordTool
Obituaries in Fort Smith, AR | Times Record
Ohio high school football playoff scores | See who won OHSAA state semifinals to go to Canton
Inspira Financial Integration for Employers & Employees | Aetna
Uly Keto Gummies Pioneer Woman
Free Classifieds! Buy a car or truck, sell your home, find a job, house, apartment, boat and more. | NL Classifieds
Kalmus Beach Snack Bar Menu
You think 'WAP' is dirty? Meet 19-year-old L.A. rapper ppcocaine, the filth queen of TikTok
Lock 20 Auto Vehicles
i - Imaginary unit - MATLAB
Writing Center Ucsc
Trizzle Aarp
Body horror flick ‘The Substance’ is great — and also weird and gross
Brandy Gordon Nsfw
Fortmyerscraigslist
Mcgibbon Guinn Funeral Home
450 jaar Leidens Ontzet: dit is er te doen op 2 en 3 oktober en zo kom je er
Msp To Lax Google Flights
Anatomy, Abdomen and Pelvis, Quadratus Lumborum
Maddies Cookies And Cream Gun Lake
Used Cars for Sale in Boston, MA
Jason Matheson Show, Bio, Wiki, Age, Husband, Salary, and Net Worth
Lpsqueen.com Reviews
Lève-personnes mobiles
South Jordan Vasa Class Schedule
Lamp Repair Kansas City Mo
Turbo Debitcard.com/Activate
9 Elements of a Writing Rubric: How to Score Well on Your Paper
Pennsylvania Launches PEUC Program for People who Run Out of Unemployment Benefits
La Mona Y Geros Desnuda
The Circuit from Atchison, Kansas
Calculatrice de fraction - Simplifier fraction en ligne - Solumaths
Merrick Rv Loans
Causeway Gomovies
Second Chance Maryland Lottery
Numbrix April 29 2023
Edgenuity Unit Test: Comprehensive Overview on Student's Guide
Television Archive News Search Service
St Croix County Police Department
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Delena Feil

Last Updated:

Views: 5595

Rating: 4.4 / 5 (65 voted)

Reviews: 88% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Delena Feil

Birthday: 1998-08-29

Address: 747 Lubowitz Run, Sidmouth, HI 90646-5543

Phone: +99513241752844

Job: Design Supervisor

Hobby: Digital arts, Lacemaking, Air sports, Running, Scouting, Shooting, Puzzles

Introduction: My name is Delena Feil, I am a clean, splendid, calm, fancy, jolly, bright, faithful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.