Gifting Airport Lounge Access: A Step-by-Step Guide

Access to airport lounges can be obtained through various means, including fare class, airline rewards programs, and credit card benefits. However, one alternative way to gain lounge access is through Priority Pass.

Priority Pass offers memberships that can be purchased by anyone, with different levels of membership to suit different types of travelers. This means that Priority Pass memberships can also be gifted to loved ones during the holiday season. Instead of stocking stuffings with uncertain gadgets or comforts, why not give a gift that can be used in any way the recipient chooses? After all, having Priority Pass lounge access means enjoying free food, which is something everyone appreciates, especially considering the high prices at airports.

What exactly is Priority Pass? It is a membership program that provides access to a network of over 1,300 airport lounges in 140 countries, regardless of the airline or ticket class. This means that Priority Pass members can enjoy amenities such as complimentary drinks, snacks, comfortable seating, quiet areas, and sometimes even showers or beds, depending on the lounge. In addition, some airport restaurants participate in the program, allowing members to receive credits towards their bill when dining outside of a lounge.

Priority Pass offers three levels of membership: Standard, Standard Plus, and Prestige. The difference between these levels is mainly the cost per lounge visit, with the Prestige level offering free lounge access. It is important to note that not all airports or terminals have participating lounges, so it is advisable to consider the frequented airports, travel plans, and frequency of flying before gifting a Priority Pass membership.

The cost of a Priority Pass membership depends on the level chosen. A Standard membership costs $99 per year, with an additional $35 fee for each lounge visit. Guests can also access lounges for a fee of $35. A Standard Plus membership costs $329 per year and includes 10 free lounge visits, with subsequent visits costing $35 for both members and guests. Prestige memberships cost $469 per year and offer unlimited free lounge visits, while guests are still charged a $35 fee per visit.

Gifting a Priority Pass membership is simple and can be done through the Priority Pass website. Just select the desired membership, provide the gift recipient’s personal details, enter a delivery address for the physical Priority Pass card, and make the payment. It is crucial to ensure that the name on the membership card matches the cardholder’s identification, so be sure to purchase the membership in the gift recipient’s name as it appears on their driver’s license or passport.

Another way to gift Priority Pass is through Priority Pass Select, which is available to certain credit cardholders. By designating the traveler as an authorized user on their credit card, they can enjoy the benefits of Priority Pass. Credit cards such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offer Priority Pass Select memberships as perks. These memberships provide access to lounges in busy airports worldwide. However, it is important to note that adding an authorized user to a credit card should only be done for trusted family members, as some credit cards charge annual fees for authorized users. It is advisable to check the details of the credit card with the financial institution before making someone an authorized user.

In conclusion, gifting a Priority Pass membership is a thoughtful and practical gift for frequent travelers. It provides access to airport lounges, offering a range of amenities and the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the airport. With different membership levels available, there is an option to suit every traveler’s needs and preferences. So, this holiday season, consider giving the gift of Priority Pass and allow your loved ones to indulge in a more comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.