Priority Pass Review [2024]: Lounges worth it for the price?

We all wish for a smooth experience at airports. But the incessant noise and big crowds are usually inevitable, and layovers and unexpected flight delays can make it even more overwhelming. Throw in uncomfortable seats, poor Wi-Fi, expensive meals, and it can turn dreadful. 

This is when lounges really start to look like the perfect respite. But, the price tag and accessibility can stand in the way. After all, aren't airport lounges mainly for business/first-class travelers who can afford the extra comfort and luxury? Not necessarily so!

Priority Pass is a program that offers lounge access to travelers at a reduced price or free of charge! Sounds like a beacon of hope? Read our Priority Pass review to find out!  

On a side note, busy travelers can also consider using App in the Air to help keep track of their travels. If you're looking for luxury travel experiences at a more affordable price, take a look at our Inspirato review!

Without further ado, let's dig into Priority Pass, starting with what they are.

What is Priority Pass?

Founded in 1992, Priority Pass is a company that provides independent airport lounge access programs for travelers. The network consists of over 1300 lounges in 148 countries worldwide.

Priority Pass aims to make the lounge experience affordable and accessible to any traveler who wants to get away from the usual chaos at airports. As a member, you can enjoy its benefits regardless of the class in which you travel. 

Here's a map that helps you locate Priority Pass lounges globally. You can also use the Priority Pass mobile app to search lounges, save your favorite lounges, navigate airports, and check for amenities available. 

How much is Priority Pass?

Priority Pass offers three membership options to choose from;

• The Standard membership costs $99 per annum. With this pass, the member and one guest can access the lounges at a fee of $32 each. 
• The Standard Plus membership costs $299 per annum. The member can enjoy 10 free visits and pay $32 for each visit after that. Your guest can also enter for $32. 
• The Prestige membership costs $429 per annum. The member can access lounges free regardless of the number of visits. Your guest can enter for $32.

How to get the Priority Pass?

One option is to directly sign up for a Priority Pass membership via the website. Once you have registered successfully, you will receive a membership card with full details on terms and conditions and perks via mail. As it will take a few days or so, you can also go for a digital membership to gain access right away. Another option is the Priority Pass Select.

What is Priority Pass Select?

This is where you gain membership through a credit card or travel card issued by a U.S financial institution. Under this, it will be one of the perks of having a credit card. Make sure you research and find out if your bank or credit/travel card includes it as a benefit to enrolling. 

What does Priority Pass get you?

There's a variety of perks that you can enjoy with a Priority Pass membership. They can differ from lounge to lounge, airport to airport. Here are the major 6 perks that you can benefit from having a Priority Pass.

1. Lounge access

• Complimentary refreshments, including alcohol
• Private working spaces
• Free and high-speed Wi-Fi
• Charging ports to power up your devices before the next flight 
• Comfortable recliners and quiet environment to relax 
• Conference room access 
• Shower facilities 

2. Some airports also allow Priority Pass members to skip the long check-in and security lines, reducing wait time.

3. You can use Restaurant Credit to enjoy a discounted meal at one of the restaurants in the airport (if they are affiliated with Priority Pass). It can waiver up to $28 off the entire bill. You can also bring a guest along and get another $28 off.

4. Exclusive retail and spa experiences 

5. Discounted accommodation choices both in and out of airports

6. Discounted car rentals 

What we liked about Priority Pass

• Access to lounges for budget travelers 

During a long layover or a short stopover, we struggle to find a good spot to sleep, charge our devices, or get hold of a stable internet connection. Lounge access comes in really handy here. Usually, lounges are accessible only for business class travelers and selected airlines. But, with a Priority Pass, even economy class passengers and those traveling in budget airlines can enjoy the comforts of a lounge. All you need is your Priority Pass card and the boarding pass.

• Worth it! (In our opinion)

We think the Standard Plus and Prestige memberships are valuable for people who frequently travel internationally. Usually, lounges can cost anywhere between $25-$75 per person per visit. But, with Priority Pass, you can enjoy them at a reduced rate of $32 or free. Considering the perks, food, and peace of mind, it's a huge save. 

• Additional amenities 

Even if there's no lounge at the airport or you don't have time to enjoy the benefits, your Priority Pass can still prove to be useful. Treat yourself to a good meal at a fraction of the cost, enjoy special discounts when shopping, or ride a cab for a lesser price. It's excellent for thrifty digital nomads.

What Priority Pass can do better 

• Increase the lounges

Although Priority Pass boasts of being the No.1 lounge access program, it still covers only a limited number of airports. Within the U.S, there are only 40. If lounges are full, especially in peak seasons, you won't be able to enter them. However, the good news is that the company continues to invest in lounges and restaurants worldwide. 

Are Priority Pass Lounges Usually Full?

Many travelers holding priority pass memberships or priority pass affiliated credit cards have access to these lounges and those who pay the full price for lounge access, so priority pass lounges can get quite full, depending on the airport.

If you're headed to a large international airport during peak travel season during the day, chances are these Priority Pass lounges may be full. This is the case with large airports, such as Paris's Charles de Gaulle Airport or Amsterdam's Schipol Airport.

A good way to check if the Priority Pass lounges are full is to take a look at the airport's popular times on Google Maps and try to avoid peak hours. You can always call ahead to ask whether the lounges will be full!

Is Priority Pass worth it?

Yes, but it's not for everyone.

If you don't go on frequent international trips, we don't think Priority Pass is a good option. So, before you sign up, consider your travel plans and destinations and see if you can access lounges there via Priority Pass. Also, if your usual choice is business class, you don't really need it because lounge access is usually included.

That being said, if you do use Priority Pass, they're an amazing service with tons of affordable membership options and tons more benefits from their membership plans!

Our Rating: 4.4/5

Pros 

• Every traveler can access lounges
• A convenient option 
• Cost-effective for regular flyers
• Extra perks

Cons 

• Limited coverage
• Quality of Lounges not consistent
• Membership prices costly

Plan your trip to include lounge stays with Pilot!

Whether you decide to go with Priority Pass during your travels, we believe that planning ahead is essential for all travel.

Having a flexible travel planning app could be great in including amenities like airport lounges into your itinerary. Why not give Pilot a try?