Unlock Global Airport Lounge Access With Priority Pass Select; Some Top Credit Cards With Benefits!

Travelling has become an integral part of our lives, whether for business or pleasure. The idea of a seamless and luxurious airport experience is appealing, especially given the stress associated with air travel. Enter Priority Pass, one of the world's top airport experience providers, which has been boosting travel experiences since its establishment in 1992.

Through various membership tiers, including the exclusive Priority Pass Select, travellers can gain access to a global network of airport lounges, making their journey more comfortable and enjoyable. This guide will delve into how Priority Pass Select operates and the credit cards that offer this premium perk.

What is Priority Pass Select?

Priority Pass offers three membership tiers directly on its website: Standard, Standard Plus, and Prestige, each providing different levels of access to airport lounges worldwide. However, a unique tier called Priority Pass Select is available exclusively through certain US financial institutions, particularly credit card providers. This tier offers an even more enticing set of benefits for frequent travellers.

Priority Pass Select is "specially designed for customers who receive their membership through a US Financial Institution," according to the company. This means that if your bank or credit card provider includes Priority Pass as part of your account benefits, you can enrol in this premium membership tier. Priority Pass Select members gain access to lounges and other experiences at 95% of the world's busiest airports, with extensive coverage across North and South America, Europe, Asia, and beyond.

Which Credit Cards Provide Priority Pass Select?

Several credit cards offer Priority Pass Select membership, often bundled with other travel-related bonuses and rewards. These cards not only grant access to over 1,500 airport lounges in more than 145 countries but also come with substantial points or miles as incentives for new cardholders. Let's explore the credit cards that provide this valuable benefit.

American Express Cards

American Express leads the pack with multiple cards offering Priority Pass access. Here are some notable ones:

The Platinum Card

Annual Fee: $695
Bonus Offer: 80,000 Membership Rewards Points after spending $8,000 on eligible purchases within the first six months.
Benefits: Access to Priority Pass lounges, as well as Amex's own Centurion Lounges and other premium travel benefits.

The Business Platinum Card

Annual Fee: $695
Bonus Offer: 150,000 Membership Rewards Points after spending $20,000 on eligible purchases within the first three months.
Benefits: Similar to the personal Platinum Card, this business version offers extensive travel perks, including Priority Pass Select membership.

Marriott Bonvoy Card

Annual Fee: $650
Bonus Offer: 95,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 within the first six months.
Benefits: Unlimited access to over 1,500 airport lounges, plus benefits within the Marriott Bonvoy program.

Capital One Cards

Capital One has entered the premium travel card market, offering cards that include Priority Pass Select membership:

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Annual Fee: $395
Bonus Offer: 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months.
Benefits: Priority Pass Select membership, along with access to Capital One's own lounges at select airports and other travel benefits.

Capital One Venture X Business Card

Annual Fee: $395
Bonus Offer: 150,000 bonus miles after spending $30,000 within the first three months.
Benefits: Similar perks as the personal Venture X card, tailored for business travelers.

Chase Cards

Chase offers Priority Pass Select membership through several of its premium cards, though changes are on the horizon:

Chase Sapphire Reserve

Annual Fee: $550
Bonus Offer: 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 within the first three months.
Benefits: Priority Pass Select membership, access to various other travel benefits, though restaurant, café, and market access through Priority Pass will end on July 1, 2024.

Ritz-Carlton Rewards Credit Card

Availability: This card is no longer available to new applicants but can be obtained by converting from another Chase-issued Marriott credit card.
Benefits: Includes Priority Pass Select membership and luxurious travel perks within the Ritz-Carlton and Marriott ecosystems.

Other Cards

Other financial institutions also offer credit cards with Priority Pass membership:

US Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite Card

Annual Fee: $400
Bonus Offer: 50,000 points after spending $4,500 within the first three months.
Benefits: Includes Priority Pass Select membership and other travel benefits.

US Bank Altitude Connect

Annual Fee: $95
Bonus Offer: 50,000 points after spending $3,000 within the first 120 days.
Benefits: Provides Priority Pass Select membership with moderate travel perks.

Citi Prestige Card

Annual Fee: $495
Bonus Offer: Varies by offer; typically around 50,000 points after meeting spending requirements.
Benefits: Priority Pass Select membership and other premium travel benefits.

Mastercard Gold Card and Mastercard Black Card

Annual Fees: $995 and $495, respectively
Benefits: Both cards offer Priority Pass Select membership, along with high-end travel and lifestyle benefits.

Priority Pass Select transforms your airport experience by providing access to lounges that offer comfortable seating, complimentary refreshments, Wi-Fi, and even showers and sleeping areas in some locations. This membership can significantly enhance your travel experience, making long layovers and delays more bearable.

To maximize your Priority Pass Select membership, consider the following tips:
Check Lounge Availability: Before travelling, use the Priority Pass app or website to check the availability and details of lounges at your departure and destination airports.

Understand Guest Policies: Each lounge has its own guest policy. Familiarize yourself with these policies, especially if you're travelling with family or colleagues.

Explore Additional Benefits: Some lounges offer unique amenities like spa services, conference rooms, and more. Take advantage of these offerings to enhance your stay.

Stay Informed: Keep up with updates from your credit card issuer and Priority Pass to stay informed about any changes in lounge access or additional perks.

Priority Pass Select is a valuable benefit offered by several premium credit cards, providing travellers with a touch of luxury and convenience. By understanding how to obtain and make the most of this membership, you can ensure that your travel experiences are as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.