Airports can be busy and chaotic places, especially during peak travel periods.
One way to make your travel experience more comfortable is by accessing an airport lounge.
These oases offer a quiet respite where you can grab refreshments and take a break from the stress of the airport. There’s more than one way to access airport lounges. So let’s take at a look at some options.
Purchase a day pass
The easiest and most straightforward way to access an airport lounge is by purchasing a day pass. Many airlines and airport lounges offer day passes which give you access to their lounges for a set period. Prices for day passes vary, but you can expect to pay somewhere around £70 for up to 6 hours. There are options to have a shower for an extra fee (c. £25-£30) and also a private rest area for up to 6 hours for about £120. Some lounges may have restrictions on the number of day passes they sell each day, so it’s wise to buy your pass in advance to avoid disappointment.
Get a lounge membership
If you travel frequently, consider getting a lounge membership. These memberships usually provide unlimited airport lounge access. Depending on which level of membership you opt for, you can enjoy such benefits as discounts on food and drinks, priority boarding, and free Wi-Fi. Membership fees vary, but you can expect to spend anywhere from £69 to £419 per year and £24 per visit. The higher the membership, the less you pay per visit. Worthwhile if you travel a lot.
Travel in business or first class
Yes, pigs might fly. But, one day, if you travel business or first class, access to airport lounges is often included as part of your ticket. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you buy, you may have access to the airline’s own lounge or a partner lounge. Lounge access may not be available on all flights or for all classes. Check before you travel if you’re relying on a bit of peace and quiet before your flight.
Use a credit card with lounge access
Lots of credit cards offer access to airport lounges as a benefit. Some cards offer unlimited access, while others provide a set number of visits per year. Cards such as Capital One, American Express and Delta have the most comprehensive benefits. Before applying for a credit card with lounge access, check the terms and conditions to understand the benefits and associated fees. For a quick look at a number of options, check out the Points Guy site.
Join a loyalty program
Many airlines and airport lounges offer loyalty programs that provide lounge access as a benefit. To join these programs, you usually need to accumulate a certain number of miles or points through travel or other activities. Once you reach the required threshold, you gain certain privileges. Lounge access, flight upgrades, priority boarding, and free checked bags. Many frequent flyer programs work together with partner airlines and other companies, making it easy to accumulate points.
In a nutshell, there are several ways to access airport lounges. From purchasing a day pass to joining a lounge membership program or using a credit card with lounge access. Before you choose, consider your travel habits and budget to determine which option is best for you. Airport lounge access is an excellent way to start your stress-free trip in comfort and style.
