Did you know that you do not need to be a CEO or famous to get FREE access to Airport Lounges? I’m revealing all the secrets about how to get Airport Lounge access free and what to expect once you are on “the inside”.
What is an Airport Lounge?
An Airport Lounge, once reserved for the elite, is an exclusive area that offers perks for airline passengers. An airport lounge is a separate “VIP” area where airline passengers can comfortably relax as they wait for their flight.
Airport Lounges provide a calming oasis from the hustle and bustle typically found in airports. No longer do you have to compete for a seat as you wait for your boarding time.
I’m about to spill the beans and share how any ordinary person (just like me) can get Airport Lounge access, too.
Source: Hawaiian Airlines
Are drinks free in Airport Lounges?
YES!!! Drinks are free in airport lounges. Some airport lounges also offer FREE alcoholic drinks! Can you believe it? This is a huge perk!!
The privileges of airport lounges have been one of the world’s best kept secret….up until now.
Source: Aspire Airport Lounge
Is food free in Airport Lounges?
YES!!!! Most Airport Lounges offer free food. Some Airport Lounges offer complimentary basic snacks; whereas, other Airport Lounges offer full hot buffet spreads at no cost! The food variety varies by lounge and by airport and not all Airport Lounges offer food services.
Getting FREE food while travelling at the airport is pretty amazing, I must say. If you have ever purchased a regular-priced meal at the airport, you will know what I’m talking about.
Airport Lounges are a welcome reprieve from the over-priced and not-so-fast food. FREE food at Airport Lounges is definitely one of the best kept secrets out there.
Say goodbye to forking over an arm-and-leg on food at the airport.
What kind of food do you get in an Airport Lounge?
The type of food that you get at Airport Lounges really depends on the lounge. Some Airport Lounges do not offer any food at all; whereas, other Airport Lounges offer hot restaurant-style meal.
My favourite is when an Airport Lounge offers a smorgasbord of complimentary food options.
Source: Air Canada, Aspire Airport Lounge
When I have more time, I also enjoy the complimentary menu-style dining options:
Source: LoungeBuddy.com
When I’m in a rush, the simple grab-and-go free snacks is awesome.
Source: LoungeBuddy.com; HalfHalfTravel.com
Airport food is expensive, so getting free snacks and food in the Airport Lounge is wonderful.
Be aware that some lounges charge a premium for specialty drinks and food items.
What is inside an Airport Lounge?
Apart from providing complimentary food and beverages, Airport Lounges usually provide amenities such as comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, televisions, and access to newspapers. There is often a range of seating options, including tables, chairs, sofas, and workspaces.
A few Airport Lounges go beyond the basics and offer additional facilities like cell phone chargers, gaming stations, showers, and sleeping quarters. Despite the extra fee associated with some of these amenities, it provides passengers a place to rest and rejuvenate.
Although I personally have not experienced lounges with dedicated sleeping rooms or showers, it is worth noting that such facilities do exist.
Can you sleep at an Airport Lounge?
Maybe. It depends on the Airport Lounge. Some lounges close during nighttime hours; whereas, others are open 24 hours per day.
The majority of Airport Lounges lack sleeping quarters. However, this pod shows how a reclining chair can quickly transform into a bed for those passengers needing a quick nap.
Source: DragonPass, Qatar
Airport Lounges often have restricted hours of operation and may limit entry up to 3 hours prior to your flight departure time. There is also typically a cap on how long you can spend inside the lounge.
Check the website of the Airport Lounge that you wish to visit and review its amenities, operating hours, and regulations.
Do all airports offer Airport Lounges?
Most major airports in the United States offer at least one Airport Lounge. However, in smaller airports, Airport Lounges are less prevalent.
Airport Lounges are not only in major airports in the USA. Airport Lounges can also be found in Canada, Europe, Australia, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
What are different types of lounge at Airports?
There are three distinct types or categories of lounges at Airports:
How do I get Airport Lounge Access for free?
There are five ways to get Airport Lounge Access:
- Fly First Class or Business Class
- A perk for flying First Class or Business Class is access to the airline’s Airport Lounge. Use it or lose it.
- Earn Elite Status through Airline’s Frequent Flyer Program
- Once you reach Elite status on an airline’s Frequent Flyer Program, you earn special privileges such as access to that airline’s Airport Lounges. Sign up for the Frequent Flyer Program to start collecting points.
- Utilize Credit Card Benefits
- Exclusive Credit Cards may include several complimentary visits to Airport Lounges each year. Check your credit card for details.
- Join an Independent Airport Lounge Network
- Annual membership programs grant access to Independent Airport Lounges. Different programs are available to accommodate your needs.
- Show your US Military ID
- Active US Military members get complimentary access to USO Airport Lounges as well as specific US-based Airline Lounges.
- Buy a Day Pass (not free)
- Some Airport Lounges allow you buy a one-day pass to access Airport Lounges. Prices and accessibility vary.
What Airlines have Airport Lounges?
Airlines that have an Airport Lounge include:
- Alaska Airlines (Alaska Lounge)
- American Airlines (Admirals Club)
- Delta Air Lines (Delta Sky Club)
- Hawaiian Airlines (Premier Club)
- United Airlines (United Club Lounge)
Canadian Airlines with Airport Lounges include:
- Air Canada (Maple Leaf Club)
- West Jet (Elevation Lounge)
Most International Airlines have Airport Lounges. Low-cost airlines and regional airline carriers do not have Airport Lounges.
Can economy passengers access VIP Lounge?
Economy airline tickets do not include access to the VIP lounge.
However, all airline passengers can access VIP Airport Lounges if they have earned Elite status through the airline’s Frequent Flyer Program.
Are there any Independent Airport Lounges?
Yes, there are several Independent Airport Lounges. Many of these Independent Airport Lounge Networks offer different membership plans to suit your needs.
Independent Airport Lounge Networks include:
Credit card companies, such as MasterCard, partner with Independent Airport Lounge Networks to turn the airport experience from one of endurance to indulgence.
For extra savings on memberships fees, check out Groupon. I have seen promotional offerings for PriorityPass on Groupon.
What Airports have a USO Lounge?
There are over 50 USO Airport Lounges across United States and abroad. To get a complete listing of the USO centres around the world, please visit the USO website.
Active military members get free access to USO Airport Lounges as well as the United Club Lounge and the American Airlines Admiral Club. You must present your boarding pass and be in uniform with Military ID to enter. American Airlines also extends the invitation to immediate family members (including spouse/partner and children up to age 18) or up to 2 guests.
Is there a USO Lounge at San Juan Puerto Rico Airport?
No, there is no USO Lounge at San Juan Puerto Rico Airport.
However, PriorityPass currently operates two Airport Lounges in San Juan, Puerto Rico at Terminal A and Terminal C.
What is the average cost of one day pass to Airport Lounge?
A one-day pass typically costs around USD$50 per person.
More information about specific Airport Lounges and reservation details can be found be on the LoungeBuddy App.
Going on a cruise is fun. Sometimes getting there can be stressful. Take the stress out of flying by arriving to the airport early and taking advantage of the perks found in Airport Lounges. You won’t regret it.
Until next time,
Shelley