Introduction
If you’re a frequent traveler who values comfort and convenience while waiting for your flight, then a Priority Pass membership should be on your wish list. This program offers access to over 1300 VIP lounges in airports worldwide, regardless of your airline or frequent flyer status.
Many travelers believe that this perk is expensive or difficult to obtain, but in reality, there are several ways to get a Priority Pass membership for free. This article will guide you through the different methods and provide tips on how to maximize your benefits.
Refer a Friend
Some credit cards offer a free Priority Pass membership for referring a friend who signs up for their program. This means that you can share your membership with your friends and family, and earn more memberships in return.
For example, the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Platinum Card from American Express offer this referral perk. Simply share your unique link with your friends, and once they are approved for the card, you’ll receive a free Priority Pass membership.
If you have a large network of friends or you’re influential on social media, this could be an excellent way to score some free memberships. Just make sure you’re not spamming or pressuring people to sign up for the card, as this could backfire and damage your relationships.
Travel Rewards
Another way to get a Priority Pass membership for free is by applying for a travel rewards credit card that offers this perk as part of the welcome bonus. Generally, these cards require you to meet a spending threshold within a certain period, such as $4000 in the first three months.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve, Hilton Honors Aspire Card from American Express, and Citi Prestige Card are examples of credit cards that offer a complimentary Priority Pass membership as part of their welcome bonus.
To ensure that this strategy works for you, make sure that the card’s annual fee and other benefits justify the expense. Also, make sure you can meet the spending threshold without overspending or carrying a balance, as interest charges could quickly negate any rewards.
Loyalty Programs
If you’re a loyal customer of a particular airline or hotel chain, you may be eligible for complimentary Priority Pass membership as an elite member. Generally, this requires you to achieve a certain level of loyalty, such as Gold or Platinum status, based on your travel or stay activity.
For example, United Airlines offers a free Priority Pass membership to its Premier Gold, Platinum, and 1K members. Marriott Bonvoy offers Gold Elite and Platinum Elite members access to over 1000 airport lounges, including Priority Pass lounges.
To become an elite member, make sure you’re enrolled in the loyalty program and actively accumulate points or miles through your travel or stay activity. You may also need to pay for a higher fare or room category to earn more points or miles quickly.
Complimentary Memberships
Some premium banking services offer their clients free Priority Pass memberships as part of their benefits package. For example, the Citigold and Citi Private Bank accounts offer a complimentary Priority Pass membership to their clients.
To check if your bank offers this perk, contact their customer service or check their website. You may need to meet certain balance or deposit requirements to qualify.
Corporate Perks
If you’re employed by a company that values your travel comfort, you may be eligible for a Priority Pass membership as a corporate perk. This means that your employer will cover the cost of your membership or reimburse you for it.
To find out if your company offers this perk, check with your HR department or supervisor. You may need to provide proof of your business travel activity or enter into a reimbursement agreement.
Credit Card Signup Bonus
Finally, you can also get a Priority Pass membership as part of a credit card signup bonus. This means that you’ll receive the membership immediately upon approval for the card, without having to meet any spending threshold.
Some examples of credit cards that offer this benefit include the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass Card, Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card, and Radisson Rewards Visa Card.
To apply for these credit cards, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria and submit all required documents and information. You can check the issuer’s website or visit a bank branch to start the process.
Conclusion
Getting a Priority Pass membership for free may require some effort and strategic planning, but it’s definitely doable if you know where to look. By taking advantage of referral perks, travel rewards, loyalty programs, banking benefits, corporate perks, and credit card signup bonuses, you can enjoy VIP access to airport lounges worldwide without breaking the bank.
Remember to read the fine print, compare the benefits and costs, and use your membership wisely to maximize your value. And if you find this article helpful, feel free to share it with your fellow travelers who could also benefit from the information.