How Does Priority Pass Work?
This guide explains what Priority Pass is, how to use it, and why the fine print depends on your card.
What Priority Pass is
Priority Pass is an independent membership program that gives you access to a large network of airport lounges around the world, regardless of which airline you are flying. Rather than buying a membership directly, most people get it bundled with a premium travel card, which is the cheapest way in. It sits alongside other lounge access options.
How to use it
Using it is simple: at a participating lounge, you present your Priority Pass, usually a digital membership in the app or a physical card, and you are scanned in. The app also lets you find participating lounges in the airport you are traveling through. Some memberships extend to participating airport restaurants, where your membership covers a dining credit instead of a lounge visit.
Why the details depend on your card
The version of Priority Pass you get is defined by the card that grants it. One card might give unlimited visits, another a set number per year, and guest policies range from free guests to a per-guest fee. Whether restaurants are included also varies, and some issuers have removed that feature. So check your specific card terms, and weigh it against whether lounge access is worth it for how you travel.
- Priority Pass is a global network of 1,300-plus airport lounges.
- Many premium travel cards include a membership.
- You enter by showing your membership in the app or as a card.
- Visit limits and guest policies vary by the card that grants it.
- Some memberships include participating restaurants, others do not.
Frequently asked questions
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