Introduction
Access to VIP lounges can make the difference between a stressful and a relaxing travel experience. With a Priority Pass membership, you can enjoy exclusive amenities such as comfortable seating, complimentary food and drinks, high-speed Wi-Fi, and even showers and spas, regardless of your airline or ticket class.
While buying a Priority Pass membership outright can be expensive, there are several ways to get it for free. In this article, we will explore the best ways to obtain a Priority Pass membership without paying a dime, including credit card offers, loyalty programs, promotions and giveaways, rewards points, work travel benefits, and even negotiation.
Credit Card Offers
Credit card companies often offer Priority Pass as a valuable perk to attract more customers or retain their loyalty. By signing up for a credit card with Priority Pass access, you can enjoy the VIP lounge benefits for free as long as you keep using your card.
Some of the best credit card offers with Priority Pass access include:
- Chase Sapphire Reserve: this premium travel card offers unlimited Priority Pass access for you and up to two guests, as well as a $300 annual travel credit that can offset your card’s annual fee.
- The Platinum Card from American Express: one of the most prestigious cards on the market, this card grants you access to over 1,300 lounges worldwide, including Priority Pass, and offers benefits such as airline fee credits, Uber credits, and hotel elite status.
- Citi Prestige Card: this luxury card allows you to bring up to two guests to any Priority Pass lounge, as well as enjoy other travel benefits like flight and hotel discounts, travel insurance, and 24/7 concierge service.
When comparing credit cards with Priority Pass access, be sure to consider the annual fee, the rewards program, and other perks and benefits that may fit your lifestyle and spending habits. Some credit cards may also limit the number of visits or guests you can bring to the lounges, so read the fine print carefully.
Loyalty Programs
If you are a frequent traveler with a particular airline or hotel brand, you may be able to get free Priority Pass access through its loyalty program. Many airlines and hotels partner with Priority Pass to provide their elite members with complimentary or discounted lounge access.
Some loyalty programs with Priority Pass access include:
- United MileagePlus: if you reach Premier Gold, Platinum, or 1K status with United Airlines, you can receive free or reduced-price Priority Pass membership, as well as other benefits like complimentary upgrades, priority boarding, and baggage handling.
- Hilton Honors: if you achieve Diamond status with Hilton, you can get a Priority Pass membership with ten free visits included, as well as other perks like room upgrades, late check-out, and free breakfast.
- Marriott Bonvoy: if you attain Platinum Elite or Titanium Elite status with Marriott, you can get a Priority Pass membership with free unlimited visits for you and one guest, as well as other advantages like lounge access at Marriott properties and elite status with car rental agencies.
To attain elite status in a loyalty program, you usually need to fulfill certain requirements such as flying a certain number of miles or nights, spending a certain amount, or holding a particular credit card. Check the specific rules and benefits of each loyalty program and see if they align with your travel goals and preferences.
Promotions and Giveaways
Occasionally, websites, companies, or even Priority Pass itself may run promotions or giveaways that allow you to win a free membership or trial period. These opportunities are usually time-sensitive and require some effort or luck on your part, but can be worth it if you get lucky.
Some of the latest opportunities to win a free Priority Pass membership include:
- Priority Pass Quiz Sweepstakes: by answering a trivia quiz about Priority Pass lounges and benefits, you can enter to win a one-year Priority Pass membership, a $200 LoungeBuddy credit, or one of three $100 Amazon gift cards.
- Mastercard Airport Experiences: if you have a World or World Elite Mastercard, you can register for a complimentary Airport Experience membership that includes a six-month Priority Pass trial and other travel perks.
- Amex Offers: if you have an American Express card, check if there are any offers that give you statement credits or rewards points for purchasing a Priority Pass membership or using it at specific lounges.
To increase your chances of winning a free Priority Pass membership, follow relevant social media accounts, sign up for newsletters, and set up alerts for new promotions. Be aware of scams or fake offers that ask for personal information or payment upfront.
Trade Rewards Points
If you have accumulated a large number of rewards points or miles from various loyalty programs or credit cards, you can consider trading them for a free Priority Pass membership. This option may require some research and negotiation, but can save you a substantial amount of money and time.
To trade rewards points for a Priority Pass membership, follow these tips:
- Find someone who needs your rewards points and has Priority Pass membership to offer. You can use online forums, social media groups, or specialized platforms like Points.com or AwardWallet to find potential candidates.
- Agree on the terms of the trade, including the number of points, the validity period, and any additional fees or conditions. Make sure both parties agree on the value and security of the trade.
- Make the trade securely and fairly by using reputable payment channels, verifying the credentials and identity of the other party, and documenting the transaction. Keep in mind that rewards point trades are usually non-refundable and irrevocable.
Work Travel Benefits
If you are lucky enough to have a job that involves frequent travel, you may be eligible for a free Priority Pass membership as part of your work travel benefits. Many companies offer their executives, consultants, or employees who travel a lot access to airport lounges to improve their productivity and comfort.
Some of the jobs or industries where you can get a free Priority Pass membership include:
- Executives or officers of large corporations
- Consultants or freelancers working for multiple clients
- Journalists or media professionals covering international news or events
- Politicians or diplomats traveling for official purposes
- Airline or airport employees or contractors
To lobby your employer for a free Priority Pass membership, highlight the benefits that airport lounges can bring to your work, such as faster Wi-Fi, quieter environment, better food and drinks, and networking opportunities. You can also compare the cost of a Priority Pass membership versus the potential savings and productivity gains that you can achieve by using it.
Negotiate with Airlines or Hotels
If none of the above methods work for you, you can try negotiating directly with airlines or hotels that partner with Priority Pass. You may be able to get free or discounted access if you have a compelling reason and are ready to make a case.
To negotiate successfully with airlines or hotels, use these tips:
- Know your strengths and weaknesses, and emphasize why you are a valuable customer or guest. If you have a long-standing relationship, have had a bad experience, or travel frequently, use that as leverage.
- Research alternative options and show that you have done your homework. If you know a competitor that offers a better lounge access program, or a similar hotel that includes lounge access, mention that.
- Be polite, professional, and persistent. Don’t be afraid to escalate your request to a higher-ranking representative or department if you are not satisfied with the initial response.
However, be aware that negotiation may not always work, and may also damage your relationship with the airline or hotel. Don’t use aggressive or manipulative tactics, and respect their decision if they decline your request.
Conclusion
Having a Priority Pass membership can greatly enhance your travel experience and make you feel like a VIP. While buying one may be out of reach for many people, there are several ways to get it for free, from credit card offers and loyalty programs to promotions, rewards points, work travel benefits, and negotiation.
Determine which method suits your situation best, and take action to get your free Priority Pass membership today. It could be the best investment you make for your travel well-being.
