How to Get Airport Lounge Access

5 June, 2024

Synopsis

• You can get airport lounge access with certain Credit Cards.

• You can also access airport lounges with a day pass, through airline loyalty programmes or via direct membership.

• You may also bring a guest with you in the lounge with additional charges.
  
  

Airports are typically associated with long lines, crowded terminals and uncomfortable waiting areas. However, you can take a break from the crowds and chaos of the airport by making your way to an airport lounge. These lounges are situated inside the airport terminal and include a wide range of amenities. In this article, you can get information on how you can get access to airport lounges in different ways.

How to Get Airport Lounge Access

Here are different ways you can access an airport lounge:

• Credit Card with Airport Lounge Access 
  
  Certain Credit Cards come with airport lounge access as a complimentary perk. When you’re at the airport lounge, you simply need to present your Credit Card with lounge access to the attendant. Credit Cards intended as Travel Credit Cards typically offer this service. The travel perks may differ based on the type of Card as well. You can also opt for a co-branded Credit Card that focuses on premium travel benefits. Note that you may have to pay an annual fee for such cards. Typically, premium range of Credit Cards may offer Priority Pass membership. Priority Pass is an independent airport lounge access programme which grants you access to 1500+ lounges globally.

Ensure you check the associated terms and conditions since there will most likely be a limit on the number of times you can access the airport lounge for free. For instance, the HDFC Bank Regalia Gold Credit Card gives you 12 complimentary access to airport lounges in India in a year. You also get access to Priority Pass membership which gives you access to airports affiliated with the Priority Pass programme across the globe. The HDFC Bank Regalia Gold Credit Card grants you six complimentary accesses yearly.

• Airline Affiliated
  
  Airline companies may offer free airport lounge access to members of their loyalty programmes. These special lounges are typically offered to passengers travelling in business class or first class. These airport lounges are affiliated with the carrier and may be reserved only for passengers travelling on that particular airline. To gain entry, you’ll need to present your boarding pass. Depending on your loyalty status with the airline, you may enter the lounge with a guest. The charges for guest entry may be waived or discounted.
  
  

• Airline Alliance Affiliated 
  
  Multiple airlines may partner with each other to form an alliance. This alliance helps airlines share resources and extend a wide network of services to passengers. These alliances offer a loyalty programme to frequent fliers where they can access affiliated airport lounges.
  
  

• Direct Entry With a Day Pass 
  
  If you’re not one to travel frequently but would still like to experience an airport lounge, you can consider a day pass. If you don’t own a Credit Card with an airport lounge access perk or are not associated with an airline loyalty programme, a day pass can be beneficial. Before you travel, verify if the airport you’re arriving at or departing from has airport lounges offering day passes. You may be able to book the lounge access online. You can present your boarding pass, pay the fee and enjoy the various amenities offered.
  
  

• Guest Entry With Someone Who Has Lounge Access 
  
  Typically, individuals with a lounge access membership, via Credit Cards, direct membership or airline affiliation, can invite a guest to the lounge. If you’re travelling with an individual who has airport lounge access, you can access the lounge as a guest. Depending on the membership, affiliation, and Credit Card type, the cardholder or member may have to pay a fee for the guests.
  
  

• Direct Membership
  
  You can be a member of an airport lounge programme by subscribing directly. You can visit the website, fill out the application form, make the payment and subscribe. You may receive a physical membership card via post. The card may also be available on an app.
  
  

What Does Airport Lounge Access Offer?

Here are reasons why you should take a respite at an airport lounge:

• A Space to Relax: Airport lounges offer comfortable seating to help you relax, away from the hustle and bustle of airports. Other relaxation amenities may also include spa treatments.

• Complimentary Meals: Generally, airport lounges offer complimentary meals and drinks. This can help you save money significantly since food and drinks elsewhere in the airport tend to be expensive.

• Access to Workstations: You can get work done comfortably. These lounges usually offer dedicated workstations, free Wi-Fi, charging stations or other business equipment.

• Family Friendly: Travelling with kids is not easy. You can help your little ones relax before a flight at airport lounges. Certain lounges may admit children under a specific age for free.
  
  

Get Airport Lounge Access with HDFC Bank Cards

At HDFC Bank, we offer a wide range of Debit Cards and Credit Cards, each with varying perks. One such perk is access to airport lounges. A bank card with airport lounge access also allows you to bring in a guest as well. Select cards also give you access to premium airport lounges. You can compare multiple cards and find the one that works best for you. Apply for Credit Card here.

*Disclaimer: Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. Credit Card approvals at the sole discretion of HDFC Bank Limited. Credit Card approvals is subject to documentation and verification as per Bank's requirement. Interest rates are subject to change. Please check with your RM or closest bank branch for current interest rates.