Priority Pass vs Lounge Pass

Many of us used to believe that the world’s top airport lounges were only accessible to the elite, like people who invented a social network or investment bankers. The idea of indulging in luxuries such as showers and all-you-can-eat buffets felt like something reserved for those willing to remortgage their homes.

Fortunately, times have changed, and this perception is no longer accurate. Thanks to platforms like Priority Pass and Lounge Pass, airport lounges have become much more affordable and accessible.

This shift is undoubtedly a positive one, as few truly relish the stress and hassle that often accompanies air travel. Anything that can ease the experience is a welcomed advantage.

Now, the pressing question is: which of these major airport lounge passes is the better option? Let’s delve into a thorough analysis of what both Priority Pass and Lounge Pass bring to the table.

What is Priority Pass?

Priority Pass is a club where members can enjoy airport lounges and affiliated restaurants worldwide. It doesn’t matter which airline or class of service you have; once you’re a member, you get access. They’ve got a massive network with over 1,300 spots in around 600 airports globally.

Priority Pass Memberships

You’ve got a couple of options to snag a Priority Pass membership: buy one or activate a free one, usually bundled with your credit card. These paths offer slightly different perks.

● Purchased Priority Pass Memberships

For the paid memberships, you can head to the Priority Pass website. They offer three tiers: Standard, Standard Plus, and Prestige.

The basic Standard membership runs at $99 a year. Whenever you visit a lounge, you’ll need to shell out $35, and the same goes for each non-member guest.

The middle ground, Standard Plus, costs $329 annually and gives you 10 visits included. Any extra visits will be $35 each. Guest visits are also $35 each.

If you’re looking for a top-tier experience, the Prestige membership is priced at $469 per year and covers all your visits, although guests will still cost $35 per visit.

● Credit Card Priority Pass Memberships

Certain credit cards provide a special version of Priority Pass known as Priority Pass Select, which comes at no cost for cardholders.

The specific terms of Priority Pass Select, including the number of free visits to lounges, guest policies, and potential guest fees, vary depending on the credit card company.

It’s important to reach out to your credit card provider to understand the details of your Priority Pass Select membership. Don’t forget to activate your Priority Pass membership online well before your travels, as activation could take a few weeks.

I recommend reading the fine print because you never know what will get you. I know it’s a hassle and most people don’t but it is good to know all the details because no one likes getting shorted.

Among the credit cards that grant complimentary Priority Pass Select memberships are Chase Sapphire Reserve, Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card, The Platinum Card from American Express, Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card, and Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card.

What Is Lounge Pass?

Lounge Pass offers a convenient online or app-based platform for purchasing access to airport lounges. There are no membership fees or joining requirements; you just pick the lounge, make a payment, and download your access.

Essentially, it’s a straightforward pay-as-you-go option to enjoy airport lounge access.

Where Does Lounge Pass Work?

Lounge Pass is a worldwide service, though it’s important to note that it may not be accessible at every airport in every country. Nevertheless, it significantly streamlines and eases the travel experience.

Lounge Pass operates in approximately 600 lounges situated across 350 airports globally.

It extends to various international destinations like Amsterdam, Berlin, Geneva, Singapore, Boston, Los Angeles, Zurich, and more.

For a comprehensive list of lounge locations, you can visit their website and select the country to view the available lounges.

Priority Pass vs Lounge Pass: Lounge access

Let’s dive into the topic that’s of great interest to many: which lounges can you access with each of these passes?

With Priority Pass, even the most basic membership guarantees entry to all of their 1200+ partner lounges across the globe. This contains over 100 airports in the USA, as well as virtually all significant European cities and major global airports.

In the U.S., using a Priority Pass at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), you can enter different lounges. In Terminal 4, you have access to both the Wingtips Lounge and the Swissport Lounge, providing options to unwind before your flight — ideal if you’re departing from Terminal 4.

And you won’t be sacrificing quality, either.

All of the lounges mentioned above feature complimentary refreshments, shower facilities, newspapers and magazines, WiFi, and more.

To discover which lounges Priority Pass allows access to at your regional airport, take a look at the company’s full lounge directory.

Lounge Pass runs a comparatively smaller operation than its biggest competitor. However, you can still pick from around 400 lounges at over 250 airports globally.

When it comes to specific airports like JFK, Lounge Pass grants access to the same lounges as Priority Pass.

It is a similar story in Manchester, however, at London Gatwick, the Lounge Pass offers entry to seven lounges, which is two more than what the Priority Pass provides.

Although Lounge Pass offers you a bit more choices at the major airports, Priority Pass has to win in this category.

Why?

Because when you begin touring abroad it offers you access to approximately 3x the number of R&R venues compared to Lounge Pass.

Priority Pass vs Lounge Pass: Customer Support

When it comes to customer service, Priority Pass takes great pride in its offerings.

Apart from their user-friendly app, which we’ll discuss in detail shortly, they boast a dedicated 24/7 support line.

This hotline ensures you can reach their multilingual Membership Services team at any time of the day, year-round.

Additionally, Priority Pass has established offices not only in the USA but also in Hong Kong and the UK.

So, if you ever require assistance while in these countries, they’ve got you covered.

In contrast, Lounge Pass falls short in this aspect. While they do have a dedicated support line, it operates from 8am to 8pm and is based in the UK.

This could potentially lead to a substantial phone bill if you need to make an international call.

Clearly, in terms of customer service, Priority Pass emerges as the winner.

Priority Pass vs Lounge Pass: App

When it comes to comparing the apps, the Priority Pass app truly earns its five-star rating on the iOS App Store.

It’s impressively designed, user-friendly, and exudes a sense of quality right from the start.

Once you’re logged in, the recently revamped app allows you to smoothly navigate major airports, gain access to your designated lounge, handle your account, and more.

Additionally, there are readily available contact details for their dedicated support line, which could be a lifesaver if you find yourself in need of assistance.

On the other hand, Lounge Pass doesn’t offer any of these functionalities simply because it doesn’t have an app.

This aspect clearly marks a win for Priority Pass.

Priority Pass vs Lounge Pass: Membership Value and Options

When it comes to Priority Pass in the USA, they offer three membership choices, all of which involve an annual fee.

First off, there’s the ‘Standard’ membership, which comes in at approximately $99 per year. Afterward, each lounge visit incurs a charge of $35, along with an additional $35 fee for every guest you bring along.

Moving up a level, we have the ‘Standard Plus’ option.

This one has a higher flat fee, roughly ranging from $329, but it grants you ten complimentary visits. After exhausting those, subsequent visits will cost $35 each. The fee for bringing a guest remains at $35 per person.

Lastly, the ‘Prestige’ package costs around $469 annually.

With this package, all visits to lounges are free for the member. The guest visit fee remains consistent at $35.

Of course, the value you get from your selected Priority Pass is tied to how frequently you fly.

In simple terms, the more you travel by air, the more you’ll find it worthwhile to invest in a higher annual fee for your Priority Pass.

Lounge Pass operates on a contrasting model. Instead of committing to an annual fee, you pay for access each time you decide to visit a lounge.

You don’t have to commit to a membership either. Just enter your flight’s booking reference and your email, then specify the number of people in your group and provide their details.

The rates begin at $25 for each visit, with an average cost of around $40 per traveler. This is a bit higher than the usual $35 per visit you’d find with Priority Pass.

Choosing a clear winner is a tough call because it really hinges on your travel frequency and flexibility requirements. For those who travel often, especially for business, Priority Pass might be the preferred choice.

Their Prestige tier allows you to make a single upfront payment at the beginning of the year, granting you easy access to any affiliated lounge whenever you travel.

Conversely, Lounge Pass caters more to occasional travelers. If you’re planning a special romantic getaway or any infrequent trip and you desire a touch of luxury, paying per visit to a lounge is likely the better match for your specific needs.

Considering membership options and overall value, it seems fair to call it a tie.

Priority Pass vs Lounge Pass — Additional Factors to Consider

● Guaranteed Lounge Access

During peak periods or when airports are packed, Priority Pass holders might face difficulty accessing lounges as priority is given to those who made direct bookings — excluding №1 lounges where members can pay an additional fee for guaranteed entry.

This could particularly be a concern at highly congested airports or during busy times, as well as when there are numerous flight delays or cancellations.

With Lounge Pass, the experience is akin to direct booking, ensuring access to the lounge without any hindrances.

● Other Membership Benefits

Lounge Pass allows you to buy access to a specific lounge for a single visit, granting you the amenities outlined in that lounge’s details. It doesn’t come with any membership perks; you simply pay for access each time.

On the other hand, with Priority Pass, being a member comes with additional advantages. This includes complimentary spa sessions (available at all spas in the US), discounted car transfers, and special meal deals within the airport.

Priority Pass vs Lounge Pass: Verdict

Although Priority Pass is the overall winner in terms of the classifications mentioned above, we would not suggest that you rush to purchase one instantly.

As summarized earlier, the most excellent option will be decided entirely on your personal requirements.

Priority Pass is a superior product and quite impressive.

If you are a frequent traveler and/or for business, the Standard Plus and Prestige choices, particularly, will provide you the ease of mind while you are on the go.

However, a Lounge Pass is by far the more suitable choice for those memorable one-off occasions, when you won’t desire to be spewing out on a hefty annual fee.

In any case, accessible and reasonably priced access to airport lounges has become a permanent feature. How you choose to utilize this opportunity is entirely your decision.

FAQS

How long is the allowed stay at a lounge with Priority Pass?

The specific policies regarding lounge duration might vary slightly within the Priority Pass network. Generally, the time limit for your stay is about 3 hours. For precise details about a particular lounge’s hours and amenities, you can refer to the Priority Pass website or app.

Can someone else, like my spouse, use my Priority Pass for lounge entry?

The Priority Pass membership card is meant for your personal use and is non-transferable.

Lounge staff will verify that the name on your membership card matches the one on your boarding pass when you enter a lounge.

Is investing in a lounge pass worthwhile?

Gaining entry to airport lounges is usually a valuable experience, whether it’s included with your airline ticket, credit card perks, or elite status.

The advantages range from essential amenities like Wi-Fi, clean facilities, drinks, and seating to more luxurious offerings like sit-down meals and premium beverages.

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