How to Get Cheap or Free Airport Lounge Access

Gemz
Mar 14
3 min read

Flying can be stressful, but airport lounges offer a quiet escape from the chaos—comfortable seating, complimentary drinks, snacks, Wi-Fi, and even showers in some cases. The best part? You don’t have to fly business or first class to enjoy them. Here are some easy ways to get lounge access without breaking the bank.

1. Buy a One-Off Lounge Pass

If you’re not a frequent traveller but want to enjoy a lounge before a long flight, a one-time pass is an affordable option. Prices typically start at £20-£25 per person, and you can book in advance through:

Lounge Pass – Access to lounges in airports worldwide.
Holiday Extras – A great site to book lounges alongside other travel extras.
No1 Lounges – Popular in the UK, offering premium lounges at select airports.
Aspire Lounges (Swissport) – A well-known network with multiple locations.

Booking online is usually cheaper than paying at the airport, and it guarantees you a spot, as some lounges have limited availability.

2. Use a Credit Card That Offers Lounge Access

Several travel credit cards offer free or discounted lounge access as a perk. A few top choices include:

American Express Preferred Rewards Gold – Comes with two free lounge visits per year through LoungeKey.
American Express Platinum – Offers unlimited lounge access for you and a guest at over 1,400 lounges worldwide.
Barclaycard Avios Plus – Includes discounts on lounge access and extra Avios points for flights.

3. Get a Lounge Membership

For frequent travellers, an annual lounge membership could be the most cost-effective option.

Priority Pass – One of the most well-known programs, offering access to over 1,500 lounges worldwide. Plans range from pay-as-you-go (£69/year + £24 per visit) to unlimited access (£419/year).
DragonPass – Similar to Priority Pass but often included with certain bank accounts and credit cards.

If you travel multiple times a year, the cost of an annual membership can quickly pay for itself.

4. Check if Your Bank Account Includes Lounge Access

Some packaged bank accounts offer free lounge passes as part of their perks. A couple of standout options:

Barclays Travel Plus Pack (£22.50/month) – Includes six free lounge visits per year, alongside travel insurance and breakdown cover.
NatWest Reward Black (£36/month) – Offers unlimited access to airport lounges via DragonPass, plus travel insurance and other perks.

If you already have one of these accounts or are considering opening one, the lounge access alone can make it worthwhile.

5. Use Airline Loyalty Programs

Many airline loyalty programs include lounge access as a perk for frequent flyers. Even if you’re not a high-tier member, some programs let you buy discounted lounge access with miles or points.

Virgin Atlantic Flying Club – Offers discounts on No1 Lounges without needing to redeem miles.
British Airways Executive Club – Higher-tier members get free access to BA lounges, while lower-tier members can pay for entry with Avios.

If you regularly fly with one airline, joining their loyalty program is a no-brainer.

6. Ask for Lounge Access (It Sometimes Works!)

If you’re celebrating a special occasion or have had a disrupted flight, it doesn’t hurt to ask about lounge access at check-in. Airlines and lounge staff sometimes offer complimentary access as a goodwill gesture. It’s rare, but if you don’t ask, you don’t get!

7. Look Out for Promotions and Discounts

Lounge memberships and passes often go on sale, especially during events like Black Friday or when signing up for airport newsletters. Some airports even offer 10% off lounge access if you subscribe to their emails.

Final Thoughts

Airport lounges aren’t just for business travellers—they’re for anyone who wants to enjoy a more relaxing pre-flight experience. Whether you use a one-time pass, a credit card perk, or a membership, there are plenty of ways to gain access without spending a fortune.

Would you pay for airport lounge access, or do you prefer waiting at the gate? Let me know in the comments!