Priority Pass Review: The Airport Upgrade You Didn't Know You Needed
“Airplane travel is nature’s way of making you look like your passport photo.”
Going on vacation is fun — seeing new places, exploring different cultures, and trying amazing local food. But let’s be honest: airport chaos isn’t always part of that fun, especially when it means long layovers in crowded terminals.
For the longest time, I would glance at those lounge signs and think… why would anyone pay to sit in a separate room? You’re waiting anyway. What does it matter where you wait?
Well, joke’s on me. Since I started using Priority Pass lounge access three years ago, I honestly can’t imagine traveling without it.
As someone who struggles with overstimulation, I never realized how much airports were affecting me. The noise, the lights, the constant running of people around you. It can take a toll, even if you don’t consciously notice it.
The quiet, the space, the freedom from worrying about bathroom lines and constant announcements, it’s a perfect way to calm my overwhelmed, anxious mind.
Are you thinking about getting a Priority Pass but need some convincing? Let me walk you through all the perks so you can decide if it’s worth the investment.
Ready? Let’s explore all the perks and benefits, and see if a Priority Pass is worth it for you:
1. Escape the Chaos: Lounge Access Anytime
With a Priority Pass, you can access over 1,700 lounges worldwide, no matter which airline you’re flying or what class of ticket you have. There’s even an app that shows you which lounges you can access at each airport and what amenities they offer, so you can plan ahead and know exactly what to expect. Plus, you can bring a guest with you, which makes waiting for flights so much more enjoyable when you’re traveling with a friend or family member.
Every lounge is different. Some have chairs or sleeping pods you can actually lie down on and recharge, others have tables or phone booths , but one thing is always the same: you can finally sit down, breathe, and enjoy a little peace and quiet. Personally, I love finding a corner to put my headphones on, scroll through a book, or just watch the world go by without the constant noise, bright lights, and people rushing everywhere. For someone like me who gets easily overstimulated, it’s a total game-changer.
2. Fuel Up: Complimentary Food and Drinks
One of the best parts about lounges is the food and drinks — and yes, it’s all included with your Priority Pass. Most lounges offer hot meals like pasta, soup, or other simple dishes, so you don’t have to splurge on overpriced airport snacks. There are also alcoholic beverages, from beer and wine to basic cocktails like Bacardi & Coke or a Bloody Mary. Many lounges even have champagne, so if you’re in the mood to start your travels on a celebratory note, you totally can.
If you’re looking for something quick or to take with you, most lounges have fresh fruit and small snacks like nuts to grab on the go. Personally, I love grabbing a little snack and a glass of wine, settling into a cozy chair, and just enjoying a few quiet moments before the next leg of my trip. It’s these little comforts that make waiting at the airport feel way less stressful and way more enjoyable.
3. Work in Peace: Stay Productive or Recharge
If you need to get some work done, lounges make it so much easier. Most have tables, quiet corners, and even phone booths where you can focus or have a meeting without the chaos of the terminal. Fast, free Wi-Fi and plenty of charging stations mean you can power through emails, prep for a presentation, or simply keep your devices ready for the next leg of your journey.
Personally, I love settling into a corner with my laptop. I can actually get things done without feeling rushed, and instead of frantically juggling my bag, phone, and coffee in a crowded gate area. For anyone who needs a little calm productivity or wants to recharge before a flight, lounges are a great solution.
4. Extra Perks and Comforts
Some lounges go above and beyond, offering showers, spa services, and dedicated relaxation areas, a perk I’ve noticed most often in airports in the UAE. After a long flight or before a long haul, nothing beats a quick shower and the chance to feel refreshed again. Some lounges even have quiet rooms or loungers where you can just stretch out, close your eyes, and take a proper moment to relax. For me, these extras make a huge difference. They turn what could be a stressful and long layover into a mini escape, giving me the energy and calm to actually enjoy the rest of my journey.
Choosing the Right Priority Pass (and Credit Card Perks)
Deciding on the right Priority Pass membership can feel a little overwhelming at first, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. There are different membership tiers, from Standard to Prestige, offering varying numbers of free visits and guest access depending on your travel habits.
If you’re thinking about a new credit card, it’s worth checking if your preferred one includes a Priority Pass membership. Most American Express cards, for example, include this perk along with other travel benefits like travel insurance, purchase protection, or airport lounge credits, making it a really smart way to get extra value out of your card.
If a new card isn’t on your radar, no worries. You can always get a Priority Pass membership standalone through the Priority Pass website, giving you full lounge access whenever you need it.
Priority Pass Membership
Relax. Recharge. Fly.
In short, I really love my Priority Pass. I use it every single time I fly, even if it’s just to relax for half an hour. It’s such a simple upgrade, but it completely changes the airport experience for the better. If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out to me here or on Instagram — I’m happy to answer any of your questions. Happy Travels!
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