If you travel often, you know that airports can be stressful. Between long lines, loud waiting areas, and overpriced food, I’m always happy when I can escape the chaos and recharge in an airport lounge. That’s where Priority Pass comes in. With access to over 1,300 lounges worldwide, it’s the largest independent airport lounge membership program and one of my favorite ways to make travel smoother.
As a frequent traveler, I’ve found that Priority Pass almost always gives me access to a lounge, no matter where I am in the world. Having a quiet place to work, relax, or grab a bite before a flight makes a huge difference. Lounges usually include free food and drinks too, which saves me from buying expensive airport meals every time I fly.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about Priority Pass, including how it works, the benefits, membership options, and how to save on your membership.
Published: September 5, 2025
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What is Priority Pass?
Priority Pass launched in 1992 to make airport lounge access available to more travelers, not just those flying in first class. Since then, it has grown into the largest airport lounge network in the world, with locations across six continents.
Unlike airline lounge programs, Priority Pass isn’t tied to one carrier or alliance. That means you can use your membership no matter what airline or class of service you’re flying. It’s designed to give you flexibility and comfort on almost any trip.
I use it all over the world, no matter what airline I’m flying. I find a lounge in the Priority Pass app, show my pass, and boom, I’m chilling in the lounge before I know it.
Benefits of Priority Pass Membership
Priority Pass members like myself enjoy a wide range of perks designed to make the airport experience less stressful and more enjoyable. Here is what you can expect with a Priority Pass membership:
- Lounge Access – Entry to over 1,300 lounges in 600+ cities across more than 140 countries.
- Food and Drinks – Complimentary snacks, full meals in many lounges, and free alcohol at most locations.
- Wi-Fi and Charging Stations – Stay connected and keep your devices powered before your flight.
- Quiet Space – Lounges are typically much calmer than the main terminal, making them great for working or resting.
- Retail, Dining, and Spa Discounts – Members (at certain tiers) also get access to 800+ offers at airports worldwide.
- Digital Membership Card – The Priority Pass app gives you access to your card, lounge maps, and updated offers.
- 24/7 Customer Support – Assistance whenever you need it, wherever you are.
- Safer Travel – Lounges provide more space and fewer crowds compared to public gate areas.
I personally find the food and drinks in the lounges especially valuable — over time, it saves me a lot of money compared to buying meals at airport restaurants.
Priority Pass Membership Options and Pricing
Priority Pass offers three membership tiers, so you can choose one that fits your travel style and frequency:
- Standard Membership – $99 per year. Best for occasional travelers. Lounge visits are $35 each for both members and guests.
- Standard Plus Membership – $329 per year. Best for regular travelers. Includes 10 free visits per year, then $35 per additional visit. Guests are $35 each.
- Prestige Membership – $469 per year. Best for frequent travelers. Unlimited lounge visits for the member, with guest visits at $35 each.
Each option is flexible, but if you travel more than a few times a year, Standard Plus or Prestige will likely give you the best value.
Where You Can Use Priority Pass
Priority Pass lounges are located in almost every major international airport and many regional ones too. Whether you’re traveling through Europe, North America, Asia, or the Middle East, you’ll find lounges in most hub cities.
Beyond traditional lounges, the program also partners with airport restaurants and even spa services. In some airports, you can use your membership to get a dining credit at select restaurants, which is another great perk.
However, before you buy a priority Pass membership, I recommend looking at their list of lounge locations to make sure they are in airports you go to. For example, I don’t have on in my home airport (Chicago O’Hare) but I travel enough to use my membership at nearly any other airport I find myself at, especially abroad.
Free Priority Pass Memberships with Credit Cards
One of the easiest ways to get Priority Pass is through a travel credit card. Many premium cards include a Priority Pass Select membership as part of their benefits.
Cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, Capital One Venture X, and the Amex Platinum all include Priority Pass memberships that can save you hundreds of dollars annually. Some cards even include free guest access, which is a huge bonus if you travel with family or friends.
If you already hold a travel credit card, check if this perk is included before buying a membership directly.
How to Save on Priority Pass
While Priority Pass is worth the cost at full price, there are several ways to save money:
- Look for sales – Discounts are often available during major shopping events like Black Friday. You can check out my Priority Pass Black Friday guide here for more details.
- Use cashback sites – Platforms like Rakuten often offer cashback on Priority Pass purchases.
- Get it through a credit card – As mentioned above, some travel cards include Priority Pass for free.
Is Priority Pass Worth It?
If you travel more than a couple of times a year, I think Priority Pass is absolutely worth it. I love my Priority Pass and I’ve had mine for nearly four years now.
The membership pays for itself quickly when you consider the value of free food, drinks, and lounge access compared to airport prices.
For me, the biggest benefit is peace of mind. I know that for so many airports around the world, I’ll have a quiet place to wait for my flight. That’s invaluable, especially during long layovers or flight delays.
Conclusion: Priority Pass Makes Travel Better
Priority Pass is the largest and most flexible airport lounge program in the world, with more locations than any competitor. It makes air travel more comfortable, saves money on food and drinks, and gives you a calm space before flights.
If you want to maximize your travel experience, I highly recommend joining. Be sure to check for sales and promotions, especially around Black Friday, to save even more on your membership.
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