What is Priority Pass, and How to Use It with Travel Cards?

For frequent travelers, airport lounges are a haven of comfort, offering relaxation, food, and other premium services. Priority Pass is a globally recognized program that provides access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide. Many travel credit cards include complimentary Priority Pass memberships as part of their benefits. In this article, we’ll explore Priority Pass and how you can maximize its value using travel cards.

What is Priority Pass?

Priority Pass is a membership program designed to grant travelers access to premium airport lounges, regardless of the airline or travel class. These lounges provide amenities such as:

• Comfortable seating areas.
• Complimentary food and beverages.
• High-speed Wi-Fi.
• Business facilities like meeting rooms and printing services.
• Shower facilities in select lounges.

How Does Priority Pass Work?

1. Membership Levels:
   Priority Pass offers three membership tiers:
   • Standard: Pay-per-visit lounge access.
   • Standard Plus: Includes a set number of complimentary visits annually.
   • Prestige: Unlimited complimentary lounge access.
2. Accessing Lounges:
   • Present your Priority Pass card or digital membership at participating lounges.
   • Some lounges may also require boarding passes.
3. Charges:
   Depending on your membership level or travel credit card benefits, visits may be complimentary or chargeable.

How to Use Priority Pass with Travel Credit Cards

Travel credit cards make Priority Pass memberships even more valuable by including complimentary access and other travel perks. Here's how you can use it:

1. Check Card Benefits:
   Verify if your travel credit card offers complimentary Priority Pass membership. Premium cards like the HDFC Diners Club Black and ICICI Emeralde often include unlimited access.
2. Activate Your Membership:
   Upon receiving your credit card, activate the Priority Pass membership by signing up on the issuer’s website or app.
3. Download the App:
   The Priority Pass app helps locate lounges, shows amenities available, and provides digital lounge access.
4. Use While Traveling:
   Present your Priority Pass card or app at lounges for entry. Be mindful of any guest entry charges or limits on complimentary visits.
5. Upgrade Your Experience:
   Some credit cards allow additional guest passes or upgrades for family members at a discounted rate.

Top Travel Credit Cards Offering Priority Pass Membership

1. HDFC Diners Club Black

• Unlimited global lounge access.
• No extra charges for Priority Pass lounges.

2. ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card

• Unlimited access for the cardholder and one guest.
• Low foreign exchange markup fee (1.5%).

3. SBI Elite Credit Card

• Complimentary Priority Pass membership.
• 8 complimentary international lounge visits annually.

4. Axis Bank Vistara Infinite Credit Card

• Priority Pass for both primary and add-on cardholders.

5. American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card

• Exclusive lounge access and Priority Pass benefits.

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Benefits of Priority Pass Membership via Travel Cards

1. Cost Savings:
   Many travel cards waive the membership fee, offering significant savings.
2. Convenience:
   Avoid crowded airport terminals and relax in premium lounges.
3. Global Access:
   Use your membership in over 1,300 lounges across 148 countries.
4. Additional Perks:
   Enjoy complimentary meals, beverages, and business amenities.
5. Family Benefits:
   Some cards allow guest access, making it perfect for family travelers.

FAQs: What is Priority Pass and How to Use It?

1. What is Priority Pass?
   Priority Pass is a global membership program offering access to airport lounges with premium facilities.
2. How can I get Priority Pass with a travel credit card?
   Many premium travel credit cards, like HDFC Diners Club Black, include complimentary Priority Pass membership.
3. Are there any charges for using Priority Pass lounges?
   Charges depend on your card’s membership tier. Many credit cards include complimentary visits, while some may charge a nominal fee for additional visits.
4. Can I use Priority Pass lounges without a credit card?
   Yes, you can purchase Priority Pass membership separately, but travel cards often provide better value with complimentary access.
5. Do Priority Pass lounges allow guest entry?
   Yes, but additional charges may apply unless your card covers guest visits.
6. What is the difference between Priority Pass and regular airline lounges?
   Priority Pass lounges are independent of airlines, offering access regardless of your ticket class or carrier.
7. Which is the best travel card for Priority Pass access?
   Cards like HDFC Diners Club Black and ICICI Emeralde are top choices for unlimited lounge access.