If you travel frequently with a particular airline, it is worth exploring the various lounge membership programs. You can access a network of airport lounges worldwide for a set annual fee, irrespective of your ticket class. Many airlines partner with other companies to extend their reach to a handful of international lounges. Airline-affiliated memberships often extend benefits beyond the lounges, offering their members priority check-in, extra free baggage and a few unique perks. Guest entry policies are varied, though most clubs will provide you with a discounted day rate at a minimum.
If your travel is not often restricted to a particular airline but your travel (and desire for comfort) is still frequent, private airport lounge memberships may be more worthwhile. Several private companies, including Plaza Premium and Aspire, have established lounges worldwide, which can be accessed by passengers flying on any airline with any class ticket. These lounges sell either an annual membership or single-day passes.
If you merely want to dabble in the world of luxury lounges without making a hefty annual commitment, a number of both styles of lounges will offer day rates to passengers. These rates range from USD 20 – 75 per day. While a pricey splurge, this is a handy way to test the services and decide whether or not you want to commit to a USD 500+ annual membership. We have flagged lounges and airlines that offer up day passes on their respective pages.
Take some time to explore a variety of membership programs offered by airlines and companies. When one captures your attention, visit the website to read the small print before signing up!
These airlines and third-party operators offer membership-based airport lounge access: