Airport lounges: Not just for VIPs. Even you, budget traveler, can access the splendor of leather captain’s chairs and fresh coffee in a real mug. No more wandering airport terminals, creating a makeshift bed out of your carry-on while you wait for a connecting flight. Consider this your guide to escaping airport purgatory.
Check your credit card policy
This is your first stop. Some credit cards have ample benefits, which include airport lounge access. If you hold one of these golden tickets, you likely already know about it. But check your policy just to be sure. On a business trip? See if your company can offer a corporate card with access.
Head to LoungeBuddy
Just enter what airports you’re visiting into LoungeBuddy and you’ll see your airport lounge options. It even gives you info on amenities, reviews and photos allowing you to find the perfect lounge for you. Then you just have to turn your decisions into clicks. (There’s even an iPhone app.)
Members Only
Maybe you’ve heard of it, maybe you haven’t. But Priority Pass gives you access to a network of airport lounges (both independent and airline-owned). As one of the most widely-used frequent flyer programs, you can become a Priority Standard Member for $99 annually, then pay $27 for a visit to the lounge. As a Priority Standard Plus member ($249 per year), you get ten free trips to a lounge and then pay the usual $27 after that. If you know you’re flying a ton this year, grab yourself a Priority Prestige membership. For an annual fee of $399, you can take advantage of the lounges as often as you want.
For a one-off unwind – the Day Pass
Listen. You’re headed out on one big trip this year. You’re excited, but that 6-hour stopover in Paris is going to break you unless you get some proper downtime. Opt, instead, for a Day Pass instead of a priority pass. A Day Pass, for the airline or independent lounge of your choice, costs between $20 and $85 on average.
KAYAK Insider Tip: Make sure to pre-order your pass. Day passes ordered on the actual day you need them are going to cost more.
Go independent
Independent lounges require no airline affiliation. They’ve got most of the amenities you’re looking for and don’t require a membership. Chains such as Airspace (especially in the US) and Plaza Premium (which will keep you rested across places like Canada, China, Australia, Malaysia and India) can cost as little as $20 (and some credit card holders may get in free). Sometimes there are even small spa treatments for an extra charge. The catch: check the hours as some of these public lounges close earlier in the evening.
Buddy up
How ‘bout putting down your phone and striking up a convo? Novel idea. But it could be worth it when you learn that every first-class passenger may bring a guest to their airline’s lounge – free of charge. Capitalize on that. Hang out by the lounge’s entrance and get ready to look exhausted, turn on the charm or present your case however you see fit. Believe in the kindness of strangers.
Looking for more travel hacks? Check out our tips and tricks for all sorts of travel needs.
