How to get a free Priority Pass membership — which includes access to over 1,200 airport lounges around the world

31.07.2024 - 21:38 / insider.com / Chase Sapphire-Reserve

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The Chase Sapphire Reserve and the Amex Platinum Card are two of the best cards available for anyone who travels. While there are a few differences between the cards, which you can read about here, they're also similar in many respects.

One of the things that the cards have in common is that they both come with a complimentary Priority Pass Select membership. Priority Pass is a network of airport lounges that members can access for free, as well as a number of restaurants and spa-type properties that offer substantial credits for Priority Pass members.

Priority Pass recently announced that it has surpassed 1,200 locations around the world, having spent the past year bringing about 175 new lounge properties and other facilities into the network.

As cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve have become more popular and common, there's been an increased demand on the Priority Pass network. By adding 141 traditional lounges and 34 restaurants, spas, and "relaxation experiences," Priority Pass has expanded offerings around the world.

"We aim to continually improve and evolve the Priority Pass offering to our members with new and exciting experiences that meet their ever-changing needs," said Sheryl Pflaum, EVP of The Americas at Collinson, the operator of Priority Pass.

Personally, I love having lounge access. They're comfortable, relaxing, and generally include access to relatively private, comfortable seats, an internet connection, food and drinks (which are often complimentary), and sometimes other amenities. Lounges are the perfect oases where you can get away of the hustle and bustle of the main terminals — even when lounges are busy, they still beat the gate area by a wide margin.

Earn 5x points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1x point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

$550

N/A

22.49% - 29.49% Variable

Earn 60,000 bonus points

Good to Excellent

If you're new to rewards credit cards you may want to start elsewhere, but if you know you want to earn Chase points and you spend a lot on travel and dining, the Sapphire Reserve is one of the most rewarding options.

Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 per calendar year) and