Tips for Steering Clear of Crowds at Priority Pass Airport Lounges

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The Priority Pass network boasts over 1,300 airport lounges across 600 cities in 148 countries, making it the largest independent program of its kind globally. While you can purchase a Priority Pass membership directly, many memberships are obtained for free via select credit cards. These lounges range from singular, airport-managed spaces to those operated by major airlines. However, one commonality among Priority Pass lounges is their tendency to be crowded.

Discover the reasons behind the frequent overcrowding of Priority Pass lounges—and explore tips to help you sidestep the crowds.

What Makes Priority Pass Lounges So Crowded?

Although it’s not always a certainty that a Priority Pass lounge will be at full capacity, it frequently occurs. There are several factors contributing to this congestion.

1. Many lounges serve airlines as well

Numerous lounges within the Priority Pass network aren’t solely for Priority Pass members. This is evident with airline-branded lounges, such as the Turkish Airlines lounges in Miami and the Air France lounge in Boston. Typically, these lounges are accessible to business and first-class passengers, along with those holding elite status with the airline. Additionally, access often extends to passengers with premium tickets in the airline's alliance, like Star Alliance for Turkish and SkyTeam for Air France.

Moreover, many third-party Priority Pass lounges are contracted to accommodate first- and business-class travelers from airlines that lack a dedicated lounge at certain airports. For instance, the non-airline-affiliated Shongololo Lounge serves as the main lounge for numerous airlines operating in and out of Johannesburg, South Africa, including Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific, Qantas, Swiss, and Etihad—and it’s consistently bustling!

2. An Increasing Number of Premium Credit Cardholders

The demand for premium credit cards is soaring. This surge includes many credit card holders who receive Priority Pass membership as a complimentary perk from their card issuers. Popular travel credit cards like the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card ($395 annual fee), Chase Sapphire Reserve® ($550 annual fee), Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card ($650 annual fee—see rates and fees), and The Platinum Card® from American Express ($695 annual fee—see rates and fees) provide cardholders with Priority Pass access. With this membership, travelers can enter lounges on their travel date, regardless of the airline or class of service, and can bring two guests for free per visit.

3. Extra Cardholders

While it may seem generous for Priority Pass members to invite two guests each visit, the allowances don’t stop there. Authorized users or additional cardholders of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve, Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card, and the Platinum Card from American Express also receive their own Priority Pass Select Membership, complete with the same access and two-guest policy.

4. Busy Seasons and Rush Hours

Just like any aspect of travel, airport lounges experience peak seasons. When large numbers of travelers converge at airports, it’s no surprise that lounges become more congested. Additionally, there are specific times when numerous flights depart simultaneously, leading to a rush of passengers eager to access the lounge before their flights.

Strategies for Beating the Crowds at Priority Pass Lounges

While you might not always be able to dodge the crowds, there are ways to try. Maximize your access to snacks, meals, alcoholic beverages, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and comfortable seating at Priority Pass lounges with these helpful tips.

1. Arrive Early and Practice Patience

This may seem like common sense, but giving yourself extra time and exercising a bit of patience can be quite beneficial. Priority Pass lounges experience peak entry times aligned with flight departures, but there are also quieter moments when travelers finish their last drink and head to their gates. Typically, if you’re willing to wait around 10–15 minutes, you should be able to enter, find a seat, and relax. Be prepared for a wait, but you might be pleasantly surprised if you don’t need to. To fully enjoy the amenities, plan to arrive at the airport 30–60 minutes earlier than you would without lounge access.

2. Opt for Credit Card–Branded Lounges Instead of Priority Pass Lounges

While many travelers hold a Priority Pass membership through premium credit cards, these cards often come with their own exclusive lounges. American Express features Centurion lounges globally. Chase has recently opened the Chase Sapphire Lounge by the Club in Boston and another in Hong Kong (with more locations planned). Capital One is set to launch several new airport lounges and smaller landings following the success of its first lounge in Dallas. Generally, credit card–branded lounges offer a superior experience compared to Priority Pass lounges. If both options are available at your airport, choose the credit card lounge for better amenities (and drinks) and fewer crowds.

3. Seek Out Plaza Premium Lounges

As of June 2023, Plaza Premium lounges became part of the Priority Pass network. These lounges are located in 70 airports across 30 countries and six continents. Since they are fully owned and operated by Plaza Premium Group (PPG), they maintain high quality standards. This news hasn’t reached everyone yet, so currently, Plaza Premium lounges tend to be quieter than their Priority Pass counterparts.

Not every major airport features a Plaza Premium lounge, but some, like Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), and London Heathrow Airport (LHR), have multiple locations. One of PPG’s newest and most impressive lounges is in the new Terminal C at Orlando International Airport (MCO). While there isn't an app, the PPG website makes it easy to locate lounges. You can also find them on the Priority Pass app now.

4. Chase Sapphire Reserve Members Can Explore Non-Lounge Airport Options

Beyond its lounges, Priority Pass offers access to a variety of airport restaurants, cafés, and bars. There are nearly 30 so-called lounge alternatives where Priority Pass members can enjoy a food and beverage credit ranging from $28 to $32 per guest. This exclusive benefit is available only to Chase Sapphire Reserve members. Currently, the Reserve allows this Priority Pass credit for both the cardholder and one guest. For instance, at Boston Logan, you’ll find three non-lounge options: opposite Gate B24 or E7, enjoy up to $56 off your bill at either location of the New American restaurant Stephanie’s. Near Gate C25, you can receive up to $56 off at Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse, which offers hearty cuts similar to its Back Bay original, along with pizzas, salads, and breakfast items.

While the offers outlined above are accurate as of publication, they are subject to change and may have been modified or may no longer be available.