Lounge access isn’t exclusive to the affluent — it’s available to anyone aiming to enhance their airport experience with added comfort and reduced stress.
Numerous top-tier rewards credit cards provide access to the global Priority Pass network. While you might already possess a Priority Pass card, its specifics and benefits can sometimes be unclear.
It’s essential to recognize that Priority Pass membership isn’t automatically activated; if your credit card includes this benefit, you must enroll first to access the perks.
Let’s dive into the various tiers of Priority Pass membership and explore which credit cards offer these benefits, as well as tips for maximizing your access.
What is Priority Pass?
Priority Pass provides access to a comprehensive network of airport lounges, mini-suites, and even some airport eateries, with over 1,700 locations available across 600 cities in 148 countries. For instance, you may find a Plaza Premium Lounge accessible through your Priority Pass membership.
While the network is extensive, most lounges are located outside the U.S.
This means that, although Priority Pass can enhance many of your travel experiences, there’s no certainty that a lounge will be available on every trip you take. However, there’s a good chance you’ll benefit from it during many of your travels.
Approximately 40 U.S. airports host Priority Pass lounges, some featuring multiple locations, including:
- 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)
- Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)
- Miami International Airport (MIA)
- Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP)
- John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
- Orlando International Airport (MCO)
- San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
- St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)
- Dulles International Airport (IAD)
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Related: The 9 best Priority Pass lounges in the US
When flying internationally, you might discover lounges in smaller airports, such as Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport (LIR) in Liberia, Costa Rica, or Entebbe International Airport (EBB) in Uganda. A lounge in Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) even features a pool.
The quality and offerings of lounges in the Priority Pass network differ based on their operators and locations. For instance, The Club ATL in Atlanta is independently operated, whereas the Lufthansa Business Lounge in Detroit and the Air France Lounge in Boston are airline-affiliated.
Before visiting a Priority Pass lounge, it’s advisable to conduct some research, as the quality can vary significantly. Some lounges, such as the Vienna Lounge at Vienna International Airport (VIE), offer luxurious amenities and gourmet food, while others, like the Bellini VIP Lounge at Vincenzo Bellini Catania Airport (CTA) in Sicily, might not meet expectations.
Related: Inside Priority Pass’ most highly-rated lounge
If you’re traveling with guests or children, be sure to review the specific lounge rules and your Priority Pass membership details to understand any additional charges or guest limits that might apply.
Priority Pass Restaurants and Minute Suites
In addition to lounges, Priority Pass has partnerships with some airport restaurants and offers access to Minute Suites — private spaces to relax or nap. This means members can enjoy meals at restaurants instead of lounges when preferred.
Note: American Express has removed the restaurant benefit from its Priority Pass memberships, while Capital One eliminated this benefit for personal Venture X cardholders at the start of 2023.
Additionally, while the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite® Card* offers eight Priority Pass visits per year, these cannot be used for participating restaurants, per a U.S. Bank representative.
Credit cards still offering Priority Pass memberships that include non-lounge visits, like spas and restaurants, include:
*Details of these cards have been collected independently by The Points Guy and haven’t been reviewed by the card issuer.
Currently, over 30 airport restaurants in the U.S. and more internationally participate in Priority Pass. Some notable examples include:
Priority Pass provides a variable credit amount at participating restaurants, generally around $28 per person. Some establishments may also limit the number of guests that can share this benefit.
Gratuity is typically not included at bars and restaurants, so be sure to tip based on the total amount before any discounts apply. Many venues also restrict items from being taken to go, which might not suit those in a hurry.
Priority Pass also offers unique options such as the PGA MSP Lounge in Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP), featuring access to a putting green, golf lessons, and a golf simulator (fees apply). The lounge grants a $15 credit that can go toward food, drinks, or golf activities, with standard limitations similar to other non-lounge visits.
Lastly, Priority Pass gives access to Minute Suites located in Atlanta, Charlotte, Salt Lake City, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Philadelphia. The first hour is included as part of your membership, and subsequent hours can be rented at a discounted rate of $34.
On the opposite side of the globe, sleep pods can be found at Dubai International Airport (DXB) for two to three-hour rentals, depending on the time of day.
Related: The 10 best Priority Pass lounges around the world
What’s the Difference Between Priority Pass and Priority Pass Select?
The terms “Priority Pass” and “Priority Pass Select” can lead to confusion, so let’s clarify.
Priority Pass represents the company providing memberships for its lounge network, which can be purchased directly with annual fees starting at $99. Here’s a summary of the membership options:
- Standard membership: $99 per year; includes visits at $35 each for both the member and guests.
- Standard Plus membership: $329 per year; offers 10 complimentary visits, with additional visits priced at $35 each (this applies to guests as well).
- Prestige membership: $469 per year; includes unlimited visits for the member, although guests incur a $35 fee per visit.
If you’re opting for one of the above Priority Pass memberships, the Standard is ideal for occasional travelers, the Standard Plus suits frequent travelers who anticipate several lounge visits each year, while the Prestige membership is geared towards those who frequently travel and will take advantage of unlimited lounge access.
Many U.S. credit cards provide Priority Pass access through a program called Priority Pass Select. Specifics regarding guest policies depend on the card type.
Both Priority Pass and Priority Pass Select members can pay for additional guests beyond their membership allowances.
Related: Is a Priority Pass lounge membership truly worth it?
Credit Cards that Offer Priority Pass Select Memberships
Several credit cards allow you to obtain a Priority Pass Select membership, including premium travel options like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® and The Platinum Card® from American Express (enrollment necessary), as well as hotel credit cards like the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card (enrollment needed) and the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, which even includes two guest visits.
Other cards providing Priority Pass benefits include:
*The information regarding these cards has been compiled independently by The Points Guy and not reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Keep in mind that the number of visits and guest benefits can vary for each card and generally require enrollment to access these perks.
For more insights into the best credit cards for Priority Pass lounge access, please refer to this guide.
How to Utilize Priority Pass Benefits
If you possess a card with Priority Pass Select membership, simply presenting your credit card at lounges, restaurants, or Minute Suites will not grant you complimentary access.
First, you need to enroll in the program through the link associated with your credit card account, found under “Benefits” upon logging in.
Related: How to enroll in Priority Pass with eligible credit cards
Since receiving your membership card may take a week or two, it’s prudent to enroll as soon as your credit card arrives if you wish to reap this benefit.
While awaiting your physical card, download the Priority Pass app for a digital membership card that is usable at most of the facilities.
Ensure you’re aware of the guest policies that apply to your benefits — and how many guests are allowed — ahead of your visit, as the lounge staff may not be aware of your specific privileges.
As the lounges do not typically require presenting your credit card, account charges might surprise you only after reviewing your statement.
The Lounge May Be Full
Even the best plans for lounge visits can go awry. With the increasing number of travelers having lounge access, some lounges can reach their maximum capacity. It’s important to note that certain lounges may only grant access to Priority Pass members during specific hours. To avoid disappointment, check the Priority Pass website for available locations and their operating hours before your trip. Be prepared for the possibility that some lounges may be at capacity during peak travel times and deny entry to Priority Pass members.
Bottom Line
Multiple credit cards come with Priority Pass Select memberships as a benefit, which can significantly enhance your travel experience by offering complimentary food and drinks and a tranquil place to unwind or work.
Always review the specific details related to your membership, as guest policies can differ between cards.
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