Cracking the code on lounge access

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Hello from 30,000 feet! It's Mary Ellen here, flying on an American Airlines first-class flight that I booked, you guessed it, on points! As a budget traveler, I'd never pay cash for a fancy flight like this, but thankfully, knowing how to play the points-and-miles game has opened up a whole new world of bougie travel for me. And it can for you too.

I'm not stopping with just a first-class flight. When I connect in Dallas-Fort Worth, it's lounge-hopping time, because this is a treat-yourself kind of weekend. Lounge access isn't just for the rich or business travelers anymore. These days, it's more accessible than ever — if you have the right travel credit cards.

Budget travel tip of the week

Travel credit cards come with a range of benefits, like TSA Precheck , travel insurance and so much more. But one of the most popular benefits is lounge access. Who doesn't want unlimited free food and drinks? Considering how expensive both of those things can be in an airport, accessing lounges can be a real money saver.

There are generally three main types of airport lounges:

• Airline-specific lounges (think AA Admirals Club, Delta Sky Club)

• Bank-specific lounges (Capital One, Chase and Amex all have them)

• Independent lounges often accessed through Priority Pass (like The Club and Plaza Premium)

In order to use these, you need to qualify by doing one of the following:

• Having elite airline status (doable, but takes effort)

• Buying a day pass (eh, I don't like to spend extra money)

• Buying a Priority Pass membership (see above ☝️)

• Holding the right travel credit cards (my specialty!)

MANY travel credit cards include lounge benefits, and it's definitely the easiest way to gain access. Always take into account where you live and which airports you use regularly when choosing a credit card. 

It's also important to consider how many people you frequently travel with and whether you want everyone to enjoy lounge life together. I'm typically a family traveler, so I prioritize cards that offer a Priority Pass membership with access for two guests.

The bottom line: Bougie airport lounge access is more accessible than ever if you hold the right travel credit cards.

Listen to the Wonderland on Points podcast

In this episode: Find out exactly which credit cards can give you the best lounge access options.

Listen now