Nothing kills a travel day faster than being turned away from a nice airport lounge you thought you had access to. Whether you're juggling airline status, credit card perks or random lounge passes, figuring out how to get into a lounge gives you peace of mind.
This guide (and video) breaks down the types of airport lounges, top lounge programs, how to gain access and which lounges are actually worth your time. Let’s get right to it.
Types of Airport Lounges
When it comes to lounge access, not all lounges are created equal. Here are the three major types you should know:
1. Independent Lounge Networks
These include programs like Priority Pass and Plaza Premium. These lounges are pretty global and often show up in airports you’d never expect.
Think smaller, more functional spaces with free snacks, Wi-Fi and charging stations.
Priority Pass offers access to more than 1,500 lounges worldwide and is one of the easiest ways to enjoy lounge perks, especially since many travel credit cards include membership as a benefit. Quality varies by location, so it’s always smart to check reviews beforehand.
Plaza Premium is a bit more upscale, though it has a smaller footprint at just over 200 locations, mostly outside the U.S. It’s often bundled with the same credit cards that offer Priority Pass.
2. Card Issuer Lounges
Premium travel cards have joined the lounge game with some seriously nice options:
Centurion Lounges (by American Express): With curated dining, cocktails and spa perks, these lounges are known for being among the best, but they’re also frequently crowded.
Capital One Lounges: Currently available in a few U.S. cities, these lounges have a similar high-end vibe with great meals, quiet workspaces and all-inclusive drinks.
Access is typically limited to holders of specific premium cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express or the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card.
3. Airline-Specific Lounges
These are often the trickiest to navigate. In the U.S., the big three networks include:
Delta Sky Club
United Club and Polaris Lounges
American Airlines Admirals Club and Flagship Lounges
Entry usually depends on elite status, flying in premium cabins or holding the right co-branded credit card. Some allow day passes (like United), while others (like Delta) have stricter rules and expensive memberships.
How to Get Airport Lounge Access
There are several ways to score entry into lounges without paying a fortune:
Premium Travel Credit Cards: Cards like the Amex Platinum, the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, and the Venture X often include lounge access as a perk, sometimes even to multiple networks.
Elite Airline Status: Frequent flyers with status (especially international travelers with SkyTeam, Star Alliance or Oneworld elite tiers) can often access lounges when flying economy.
Day Passes and Paid Memberships: United and American both offer day passes for purchase. But for frequent flyers, a full membership might make sense — just be prepared to spend a little more.
Tips Before You Head to the Lounge
Download the App: Programs like Priority Pass and American Express have apps that show lounge locations, hours and digital access cards, which is super helpful on a busy travel day.
Activate Your Membership: Many cards require you to enroll before using your lounge benefit — don’t skip this step.
Bring a Guest? Check your card or status rules. Most programs allow one or two guests for free, but others charge $30–$50 per person.
Crowds Are Real: Even premium lounges can get packed. Aim to arrive early or visit during off-peak hours when possible.
Is It Worth It?
In our opinion, airport lounges should be a priority. If you travel even a few times a year, lounge access can make a big difference. Whether you’re escaping the crazy terminal, recharging during a delay or just want a snack that doesn’t cost you $14, the perks add up quickly.
Just make sure you know how to get in before approaching that check-in desk.
💡 Pro Tip: Many of our favorite travel credit cards come with lounge access, making it that much easier to relax pre-flight. Check out those cards here.
