How to Get Access to Airport Lounges

We have all read tips for ways to occupy yourself when you’re at the airport. Books, games, people watching or even leaving to explore the city are all great options, depending on the length of your layover. If you are facing a particularly long layover, however, and would rather spend the time relaxing as opposed to venturing into the city, consider one of Independent Traveler’s seven ways to get access to the airport lounge, even if your ticket does say coach.

1. Buy a day pass. Many airlines now sell day passes for their lounges, usually averaging $50. However, if you know you are going to have significant downtime, you can often buy day passes in advance for a reduced cost. If you’re going to be traveling internationally, check out LoungePass.com. Make sure you take note of whether the time you are allowed to spend there is restricted.
2. Lounge membership. While road warriors used to hold lounge memberships paid for by their companies, those perks are mostly a thing of the past, leaving business travelers finding more flexible ways to get access. If you only fly on one airline, for example, you may want to consider an airline membership. Before making that investment, make sure that the airports you frequent provide lounges, since typically only the busiest of airports have lounges.
3. Third-party vendors. If you regularly use different airlines for booking flights, you might benefit the most from purchasing a lounge membership from a third-party vendor. Priority Pass.com, for example, offers access to 600 lounges worldwide for an annual fee.
4. Public pay-in lounge. Many airports are now providing public lounges where you can pay a fee for comfortable chairs, snacks, Wi-Fi access, small meals and non-alcoholic beverages. Some lounges even offer shower facilities, which can be useful if you are only traveling with a carry-on and have all your toiletries with you.
5. Elite status. Many airlines offer lounge perks for customers who have achieved elite status by flying exclusively with their airline.
6. Credit card. One of the easiest ways to get lounge privileges is to acquire a credit card with that airline. Keep in mind, however, that some of the airlines charge significant annual fees for their credit cards. Read the fine print before applying and make sure your spending and travel habits make the card worth the money.
7. Make friends and be a guest. Some people have gained access to lounges by standing outside the door and asking a person going inside if they can take them in as a guest. Also, try checking on eBay or Craigslist for guest passes.