Get complimentary lounge access with these Priority Pass credit cards

What is Priority Pass?

Priority Pass is a membership program that offers access to some of the top airport lounge networks around the world. Depending on your membership level and lounge, this access can be completely free or require a small fee.

With Priority Pass membership, you can also get deals and coupons for common retailers you’d find at the airport, such as dining, spa treatments and newsstands.

How do I gain access to Priority Pass lounges?

There are currently two primary ways of gaining access to Priority Pass lounges: Purchase a membership or obtain a credit card that offers complimentary membership.

Purchasing a Priority Pass membership

Priority Pass offers three membership levels, each with a different price structure and lounge access capabilities.

Gain access through a Priority Pass credit card

Certain credit cards offer Priority Pass membership as a travel benefit. Priority Pass membership earned through eligible credit cards is called Priority Pass Select.

Functionally, there isn’t much difference between a standard Priority Pass membership and a Priority Pass Select membership. In fact, the design of the card is the only indication of a membership difference. Signing on to your account makes no mention of “Select” status.

Priority Pass benefits and amenities

Since Priority Pass lounges are a collection of lounge networks as well as independent lounges, the exact amenities you’ll find in each lounge will differ depending on the lounge or location. However, here are some of the more common amenities you can expect:

• Access to complimentary drinks, alcohol and dining
• Free Wi-Fi
• Charging stations
• Conference rooms
• Televisions
• Magazines and other reading material

Priority Pass membership also entitles you to discounts in certain restaurants, bars or other dining areas in airports. For example, you can enjoy $28 off of your bill at Noble Hops in Tucson AZ Intl. Noble Hops is the only “lounge” listed in this airport, so you’ll want to check ahead to see what your lounge options are during travel.

Priority Pass lounge locations

No matter where you travel, you’re likely to have plentiful opportunities to relax and enjoy some complimentary dining. Here are the available Priority Pass lounges by location:

North America

How to make the most of your Priority Pass membership

Priority Pass membership is a great value if you remember to make the most of it. Here are some simple tips to find the most value:

• Scout out lounges ahead of time.
  You may need to go to another terminal to find an eligible lounge. Also, note not all airports have traditional “lounges” as some offer pubs or other dining locations instead.
• Use your dining perks.
  You can get up to $28 off your bill at eligible Priority Pass restaurants and pubs. This offer can extend to guests depending on the location. That means you could receive $56 off of your bill for you and one Priority Pass “guest.” This is particularly useful if you’re traveling through an airport without lounges, such as Denver International Airport.
• Register an authorized user.
  Priority Pass Select memberships earned through eligible Priority Pass credit cards are also given to each authorized user on your account. This is a terrific perk considering the value of a Priority Pass Select is comparable to a paid Prestige membership at $429. This also doubles the number of guests you can bring with you if you happen to travel with your fellow authorized user.
• Remember your discounts.
  One of the overlooked perks of Priority Pass membership is the selection of discounts on airport retailers. While you’ll find less-than-earth-shattering deals, this can still help you shave a few dollars off those airport essentials.

Bottom line

Picking up a credit card with Priority Pass is a great value-add, particularly if you travel to a variety of locations on different airlines. It’s best if you do a little research ahead of your travels to scout out eligible lounges and deals.

Compare credit cards that offer lounge access to find the perfect card for your travel and purchasing needs.

Frequently asked questions

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

  Nothing major. Priority Pass used to have access to a few additional lounge networks, though now available lounges are standardized between the two.

• Can I use someone else's Priority Pass?

  No. Only the individual listed on the membership card can use that Priority Pass.

• Why was I denied Priority Pass entry?

  Some lounges restrict lounge access for Priority Pass members during busy hours. Check with the individual lounge ahead of time for more information.

• Are there Priority Pass Lounges overseas?

  Yes. Many major airports, such as Gatwick or Heathrow in the UK, offer Priority Pass access.