One of the nice benefits of a premium travel rewards credit card is access to business lounges around the world. Most of the major airlines in the United States offer premium co-branded cards that include lounge club memberships. Unfortunately, these cards come at a high price that is comparable to the cost of the membership itself. Thankfully, there are several cards that offer business lounge access at a discounted price. Lounge Club and Priority Pass are both operated by Priority Travel Group. As an additional credit card benefit, these memberships offer free and discounted entry into select business lounges around the world.
How This Benefit Works
Once a cardholder obtains a card that includes either Lounge Club or Priority Pass membership, the cardholder must request a separate membership card in advance. Note that the eligible credit card by itself is not sufficient to gain entry into the member lounges. After the cardholder applies online, the Lounge Club or Priority Pass membership card will be sent in the mail. In most instances, the first two visits to a member lounge are free for the cardholder and a single guest. Subsequent visits will be charged to the cardholders account at the discounted rate of $27. This fee, while significant, is about half of the normal entry fee for one person.
What To Expect At A Business Lounge
The lounges in this program generally tend to be facilities owned by a smaller carriers or independent lounges affiliated with multiple airlines. On a recent visit to Cancun, I was pleased to learn that my Lounge Club card was valid at separate lounges in both of their major terminals. Upon entry, I was greeted and I was allowed use of the club for myself and my guest at no additional charge. All I had to do was present my Lounge Club card, which is a benefit of my Chase Ink Bold charge card. Cold drinks, light snacks, and wireless Internet service was also available. The atmosphere was quiet and there were plenty comfortable chairs. Alternatively, there were desks with electrical outlets available for those who preferred to do work. Since my accommodations scheduled my airport transportation well ahead of my departure time, I was thankful that I was able to spend my two hours in that lounge, rather than in the crowded boarding area. By learning about the business lounge benefits of various credit cards, travelers can utilize this valuable service for free or at an affordable price.
For more information, please see the Priority Pass website.
