Airports can be noisy and crowded. A lounge gives you space to sit, eat, or work before your flight. But not every lounge is the same, and some aren’t worth the cost. Here are a few things to think about before you choose one.
Check how you can get in
There are different ways to access a lounge. Some tickets include it, especially in business or first class. Frequent flyer status can also open the door, even if you’re flying economy. If you don’t have either, you might get in with a membership like Priority Pass or through a credit card. Some lounges also let you pay at the desk, though this isn’t always guaranteed if they’re busy.
Watch this video to get some insider tips:
Pick the right location
Always check where the lounge is. It needs to be in the same terminal as your flight, and ideally past security. In Europe, the Schengen and non-Schengen areas are often separate, so make sure the lounge is on the right side. It’s also worth looking at how far it is from your gate so you’re not rushing at the last minute.
Think about timing
Opening hours and peak times matter. Early mornings and evenings are often busy, and some lounges fill up fast. A few, like Enjoy Travel, let you book in advance, which can save you stress. If your stay will be short, weigh up whether it’s worth paying for entry.
Look at what’s on offer
Some lounges are basic, with soft drinks and snacks. Others have hot food, showers, or quiet rooms. If you only want a coffee and a chair, a cheaper option will do. But if you’ve got a long layover, it may be worth finding one with better facilities.
Read the small print
Most lounges have time limits, often around three hours. Some have dress codes or only allow entry close to your flight time. If you plan to use a membership card, check whether you need the physical card or if the app is enough. Small details can make a big difference at the door.
Rely on reviews, not adverts
Websites and brochures tend to make every lounge sound the same. Recent reviews and photos from other travellers are more useful. They’ll give you an idea of how crowded it gets, whether the Wi-Fi is reliable, and if the food is worth it. You can also try sites like Lounge Review, or just type the name of the lounge you’re after in ChatGPT and ask him for the latest reviews.
You can also watch videos on YouTube, like this one:
Match it to your needs
Think about what you want from the space. If you need quiet, avoid lounges close to bars or family areas. If you want to work, check for strong Wi-Fi and plenty of charging points. If you’re travelling with dietary needs, it’s best to look at menus before you arrive.
Be realistic about value
Lounges can be a nice break, but they’re not always worth the price. Do a quick mental check: how long will you stay, and what would you spend outside on food and drink? For a short stop before boarding, the terminal café might be enough. For a long layover, the comfort and extras can be worth the cost.
Keep an eye on the clock
Not every lounge makes boarding announcements. Set an alarm on your phone, and leave early if your gate is far away. Missing your flight is never worth the extra cup of coffee.
Choosing a lounge comes down to location, timing, and what you need most. Look past the glossy adverts and focus on the details that matter to you. Sometimes it’s worth it, sometimes it isn’t. Either way, you’ll step on the plane feeling more in control.
Choosing the Right Airport Lounge: A Quick Guide
| Consideration | Tips |
|---|---|
| How to Get In | Check if your ticket, frequent flyer status, membership, or credit card provides access. You might also be able to pay at the door. |
| Location | Confirm the lounge is in your terminal, past security, and on the right side for international flights (e.g., Schengen vs. non-Schengen). |
| Timing | Be mindful of opening hours and peak times. Consider booking in advance if possible and whether a short stay is worth the cost. |
| Offerings | Look at what’s provided—some lounges only offer basic snacks, while others have hot food, showers, and quiet rooms. |
| Fine Print | Check for time limits, dress codes, and entry requirements like needing a physical card for entry. |
| Reviews | Rely on recent reviews and photos from other travelers instead of promotional brochures to get a realistic idea of the lounge. |
| Needs | Match the lounge to your needs—whether you want a quiet place to work with Wi-Fi or a spot to relax with family. |
| Value | Be realistic about the cost versus the value. Consider the length of your stay and what you’d spend on food and drinks outside the lounge. |
| Clock | Set an alarm on your phone, as many lounges do not make boarding announcements. |
Frequently Asked Questions About Airport Lounges
What is an airport lounge and why should I use one? An airport lounge is a special area in the airport that provides a quiet, comfortable space to relax, eat, or work before your flight. They offer a break from the noise and crowds of the main terminal.
How can I get into an airport lounge? There are several ways to access a lounge:
- Ticket Class: Business or first-class tickets often include lounge access.
- Frequent Flyer Status: High-tier frequent flyer status can grant you entry, even if you’re flying economy.
- Memberships & Credit Cards: Memberships like Priority Pass or specific credit cards can get you in.
- Pay at the Door: Some lounges allow you to pay for entry, but this isn’t always available, especially during busy times.
How do I choose the right lounge at the airport? First, always check that the lounge is in the same terminal as your flight and past security. If you’re flying in Europe, make sure the lounge is in the correct Schengen or non-Schengen area. It’s also a good idea to check its distance from your departure gate so you don’t have to rush.
What kind of facilities do lounges offer? Lounges vary greatly in what they offer. Some might only have basic snacks and soft drinks, while others provide hot meals, showers, quiet rooms, and bars. Look at the amenities before you go to make sure it meets your needs, whether you just want a quiet chair or a place to get a full meal.
Are there time limits or other rules for using a lounge? Yes, most lounges have a time limit, typically around three hours. You should also check for any other rules, such as a dress code or specific entry times. If you’re using a membership card, confirm whether a physical card or a digital app is required for entry.
How can I find reliable information about a specific lounge? Instead of relying on official websites, look for recent reviews and photos from other travelers. These can give you a better idea of how crowded the lounge gets, the quality of the food, and how reliable the Wi-Fi is.
Is an airport lounge always worth the money? Not always. It’s important to be realistic about the value. Consider how long your stay will be and what you would spend on food and drinks outside the lounge. For a very short layover, a coffee shop in the terminal might be enough. For a longer wait, the comfort and extra facilities of a lounge can be worth the cost.
