1. Credit Cards with Lounge Access
The most popular way to access airport lounges is through a credit card that includes lounge benefits. Many premium travel credit cards offer complimentary access to lounge networks worldwide.
Best credit cards for lounge access:
- American Express Platinum Card - Access to Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass, Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta), and Plaza Premium lounges
- Chase Sapphire Reserve - Priority Pass Select membership with unlimited visits
- Capital One Venture X - Priority Pass membership plus Capital One lounges
- Diners Club International - Access to 1,000+ airport lounges worldwide
Credit card lounge access is often the best value since you're getting lounge visits bundled with other travel benefits like travel insurance, points earning, and hotel status.
Browse lounges by access method →
2. Lounge Membership Programs
Dedicated lounge membership programs let you pay an annual fee for access to a network of lounges, regardless of which airline you fly or credit card you hold.
Major lounge membership programs:
| Program | Annual Cost | Lounges | Guest Policy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Priority Pass | $99-$469 | 1,500+ | Varies by plan |
| LoungeKey | Pay-per-visit | 1,100+ | Per-visit fee |
| DragonPass | Varies | 1,300+ | Per-visit fee |
| Plaza Premium | $199-$399 | 250+ | Add-on fee |
Priority Pass is the largest independent lounge network and the most popular membership choice for frequent travellers.
3. Day Passes (Walk-In Access)
Many airport lounges sell single-visit day passes, letting you pay once to access the lounge without any membership or credit card requirement.
Typical day pass prices:
- Independent lounges: $25-$50 per visit
- Priority Pass lounges: $32 per visit (Standard membership)
- Plaza Premium lounges: $40-$65 per visit
- Airline lounges: $50-$80 per visit
- Premium/First Class lounges: $100+ per visit
Day passes are the best option if you fly infrequently but want lounge access for a special trip or long layover.
4. Airline Status or Ticket Class
Flying business class or first class typically includes complimentary access to the airline's lounges. Frequent flyer elite status can also unlock lounge access on economy tickets.
How airline-based access works:
- Business Class ticket: Access to business class lounges operated by your airline or alliance partners
- First Class ticket: Access to first class and business class lounges
- Gold/Platinum frequent flyer status: Lounge access on any ticket class (policies vary by airline)
- Alliance status: Star Alliance Gold, oneworld Sapphire/Emerald, and SkyTeam Elite Plus offer partner lounge access worldwide
Browse lounges by airline access →
5. Lounge Booking Apps
Several apps and websites let you pre-book lounge visits, sometimes at discounted rates compared to walk-in prices.
Popular booking options:
- LoungeBuddy (now part of American Express) - Book individual visits
- Loungepass - Pre-book at select airports
- Airport lounge websites - Many lounges offer direct online booking
- Airport Lounge List - Find and compare lounges at your airport
Pre-booking can save you money and guarantee your spot, especially during peak travel times when popular lounges may reach capacity.
6. Airport-Specific Programs
Some airports operate their own lounge programs or offer day passes through their terminal operators.
Examples include:
- Airport-operated premium lounges available to all passengers
- Terminal-specific lounge programs with bundled pricing
- Airport loyalty programs that include lounge access perks
Check the specific airport page on our site to see what's available:
7. Military and Government Access
Active duty military personnel and certain government employees may have access to USO lounges (at US airports) or other dedicated facilities.
Which Access Method Is Right for You?
The best way to access airport lounges depends on how often you travel:
- 1-3 trips per year: Buy day passes as needed - most cost-effective
- 4-8 trips per year: Consider a credit card with lounge access - the annual fee pays for itself
- 9+ trips per year: A dedicated membership like Priority Pass Prestige offers unlimited visits and maximum value
- Frequent business travellers: Airline status through a frequent flyer program gives you the most consistent access across your airline's network
Pro tip: Many travellers combine methods. A premium credit card for Priority Pass access plus airline status for your home carrier's lounges gives you the widest coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone go to an airport lounge?
Yes. While lounges were once exclusively for business and first class passengers, today anyone can access most airport lounges through day passes, credit cards, or membership programs. Simply check what access options are available at the specific lounge.
Do I need to book a lounge in advance?
Usually not. Most lounges accept walk-ins with valid access credentials (membership card, qualifying credit card, or day pass purchase). However, some popular lounges do reach capacity, so pre-booking can be worthwhile during peak travel periods.
Can I bring guests to an airport lounge?
Guest policies vary by lounge and access method. Priority Pass Prestige allows guests at $35 each. Some credit cards include guest access. Most day passes are per person. Check the specific lounge's policy before your visit.
How early can I access an airport lounge before my flight?
Most lounges allow access up to 3 hours before your flight. Some have no time restrictions as long as you have a same-day boarding pass. A few lounges, particularly those near hotels, may offer overnight access.
Are airport lounges only in international terminals?
No. Airport lounges are found in both domestic and international terminals. Many major domestic airports have excellent lounge options. Search our directory to find lounges at any airport.
Ready to Find Your Lounge?
Search our directory to find lounges at your airport and see exactly how to access them.