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How to Access Business Class Lounges (FOR FREE!)

When people ask me about packings lists, or the best tech for my travels, or the ONE thing I wouldn’t travel without. It’s an easy answer these days. If we ignore the obvious (google maps etc), then the one thing I wouldn’t travel with is my Priority Pass membership. For 8 years, it’s allowed me to access business class lounges (they have a ridiculous 1700+ in an equally ridiculous 145+ countries) , for free, when I’m flying economy.

I first signed up AFTER I finished visiting every country in the world (I’m an idiot for doing it so late), and since then I’ve used it to access business class lounges roughly 100 times a year. That’s 8 years, almost 1000 lounges (and plenty of champagne, cocktails fast wifi, and free food to boot!).

The way I see airports is like that. You can either look forward to the airport experience, or you can dread it. Simple as that. Flying can be a chaotic mess—crowds, overpriced airport food, and nowhere comfortable to sit. But what if you could swap that for plush seating, free drinks, and a quiet space before your flight? Enter airport lounges. If you’ve ever wandered past those frosted glass doors and wondered how to get in, this guide is for you. Now I look forward to every single flight because of my Priority Pass membership. Often even going early to airports to chill, catch up with work, have a couple of glass of wine before my flight. Game changer.

TLDR? Priority Pass is the number 1 thing every flyer should have. I did a whole Priority Pass review here (with a 30% discount at the moment).

What is an Airport Lounge?

If you’re new to this, let’s start with the basics. An airport lounge is basically an oasis in the middle of the terminal. It’s a private area where (pro) travelers can relax, grab food and drinks, charge devices, and sometimes even shower before a flight. Business and first-class passengers usually get automatic access, but there are other ways in, too. Namely, Priority Pass. Pay a yearly fee (currently 30% off) and you can access lounges to your heart’s content.

Is an Airport Lounge Worth It?

If you can work with WiFi, yes. If you want to enjoy your airport experience with a glass of wine, yes. If you want to avoid screaming kids, and Chinese tour groups, yes. Basically, it’s always worth it!

If you value peace, comfort, and a little indulgence before flying, then yes. Lounges offer:

• Complimentary food and drinks (no more overpriced airport sandwiches)
• Comfortable seating
• Free Wi-Fi and charging points
• Flight information screens so you don’t have to hover by the gate
• Sometimes even showers, cocktail barmen, spas, and sleep pods!

For frequent travelers, lounge access is a game-changer. I can’t believe I lived without accessing these places for so long. And thank God for Priority Pass (30% DISCOUNT HERE!)

Ways to Access Business Class Lounges

1. Fly Business or First Class

The obvious way in. If you’ve splashed out on a premium ticket, lounge access is often included. Just check your airline’s policy. I’d suggest that less than 20% of people in the lounge are paying for business class.

2. Airline Loyalty Programs & Elite Status

Frequent flyer programs like British Airways Executive Club or Emirates Skywards offer lounge access to high-tier members, even when flying economy. If you travel often with the same airline, this can be a solid investment. This is tough though. I fly ALL the time, and never had status!

3. Priority Pass – The Easy Way In aka Cheat Mode.

The easiest way to unlock lounge doors worldwide is with Priority Pass, the largest independent airport lounge program with over 1,700 lounges in 600+ cities.

Special Offer: Right now, new customers can get up to 30% off Priority Pass membership using this link. The offer is valid until Dec 31, 2025, and can only be used once.

With Priority Pass, you can:

• Pre-book lounges to guarantee a spot (although you don’t need to, I never do this)
• Access lounges for free
• Use lounges on both departing and returning flights

This membership is perfect for anyone who flies regularly but doesn’t always book business class tickets (that’s most of us I think!).

4. Pay-As-You-Go Lounge Passes

If you only travel occasionally, some lounges sell one-time passes for a single visit. The price can be over $100 a pop though. If you’re doing that 3 or 4 times a year, you’re better getting a membership to Priority Pass.

5. Credit Cards with Lounge Access

Some premium credit cards come with lounge perks. But the credit cards that offer this can be more than $1000 a year in credit card fees. For most people, they don’t want to pay that.

Extra Perks of Priority Pass

Beyond lounge access, Priority Pass members can also enjoy:

• Discounted airport dining in select locations
• Be Relax Spa access for pre-flight pampering
• Gaming lounges at some airports
• Pre-order takeaway from 485+ airport restaurants
• Private airport transfers at over 1,100 airports
• Exclusive car rental discounts

How to Get Started and access biz class lounges:

Getting lounge access with Priority Pass is simple:

1. Sign up online through this link for up to 30% off.
2. Download the Priority Pass app for instant digital access.
3. Find a lounge at your departure airport.
4. Show your membership and walk in—easy!

FAQs

1. Can I use a lounge immediately after joining?

Yes! Once you sign up, download the app, and use your digital membership card for instant lounge access. You don’t need to wait for the physical card. In fact, I haven’t even used my physical card in years. I just keep my Priority Pass digital card in my wallet on my iPhone.

2. Can I take a guest into a lounge?

Yes! Guests are welcome, but you’ll need to pay a visit fee for each person you bring along. Thankfully it’s discounted due to your membership. So even if the lounge charges $75 or whatever, you will only pay £24.

3. What’s the difference between Priority Pass membership plans?

• Standard: Pay-as-you-go for each lounge visit.
• Standard Plus: 10 free lounge visits per year, then pay per visit.
• Prestige: Unlimited free visits.

I’ve done all 3 over the 8 years I’ve been a member. I’d skip the first one to be honest. Obviously the Prestige is best for me, with so many flights per year. If you’re flying around 5 or 6 times a year, then the middle one is best.

4. Where can I find a list of available lounges?

Use the Priority Pass app or check their website to see all lounge locations and perks.

How Do I sign Up?

EASY! Go HERE, sign up and you can use a lounge in minutes!

Final Thoughts

It’s HONESTLY A GAME CHANGER. You’ll struggle to think how you ever did without it! If I lost all my travel knowledge, this would be the first step to getting back on track.

So, whether you fly once a year or every week, getting access to business class lounges is easier than you think. Priority Pass is the best all-round option, especially with up to 30% off right now. No more waiting at the gate on uncomfortable chairs—level up your airport experience today.