Priority Pass Select is a benefit that’s offered with select premium travel credit cards. Be aware that the benefit level may vary based on the credit cards you have.

For example, some premium travel cards have unlimited access for you and two guests, while other credit cards may only give you 10 Priority Pass tickets per year. Always check your card’s benefit guide for the most up to date information.

Priority Pass FAQ

1. How do you get multiple Priority Pass Select cards?

If you have more than one premium credit card that offers Priority Pass as a benefit, you will most likely end up with the respective number of Priority Pass cards.

To obtain the cards, you’ll need to log in your online account or call the number on the back of your credit card to request the Priority Pass card. Not all credit issuers will automatically send the Priority Pass card.

Pro-tip: Label your Priority Pass cards to keep track of them. I usually write which card the pass is associated with on the back, so I don’t confuse them.

Your credit card will not grant you access into Priority Pass lounges. You MUST present the physical (unexpired) Priority Pass card. Some lounges will also accept the card if it’s linked to the Priority Pass app.

For example, I hold both the Chase Sapphire Reserve and The Platinum Card from American Express. Both of these cards give me access to Priority Pass, so I have two separate membership cards. The great thing about Priority Pass is that the card number is different for each credit card, and not tied to your name.

At restaurants, I usually use one Priority Pass card for food, close out the tab, and then use the second card to get drinks. Be sure to carry cash to leave a tip since it’s not included in the credits.

Important note: Not all Priority Pass Select cards are created equal. For example, the Priority Pass from The Platinum Card and other Amex cards does NOT grant you access to restaurants. Double check the benefits of your respective card before using it.

2. How many guests can you bring into the Priority Pass lounge?

When the benefit says “you and two guests” that means you can bring yourself AND two additional people into the lounge.

The answer varies based on your credit card agreement with Priority Pass. Always check your card benefit guide for the most up to date information.

• Chase Sapphire Reserve - Complimentary visit for you + 2 guests
• Amex Platinum - Complimentary visit  for you + 2 guests
• U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve - Complimentary visit for the first 4 visits and 4 individual accompanying guests per membership year. Each visit and guest after that will be subject to the $27 fee.

3. Can you use the Priority Pass Lounge upon arrival?

In my experience, yes, but your mileage may vary. Technically, you can enter a lounge if you have the Priority Pass card and a same-day boarding pass. However, it mainly depends on the front desk reception if they want to let you in, and how busy the lounge is.

One pro-tip is to check the Priority Pass app to see if there is an arrival’s lounge. Hong Kong International Airport has an arrival’s lounge after you clear customs and pickup your luggage.

The only exception is if you have to clear security to visit the lounge - you will not be able to visit.

4. Why would you want to use the Priority Pass upon arrival?

If you have a morning flight, the lounge is a good place to stay until you are ready to explore the city.

In Singapore, my flight landed at  6 AM and hotel check-in was at 12 PM, so I  visited every single Priority Pass lounge in the airport.

Another example is if your flight lands during rush hour. I would rather spend an hour relaxing in the lounge instead of sitting in rush hour traffic.

5. How long does it take to get the Priority Pass card?

It depends on the credit issuer. In my experience, it usually takes 2-3 weeks.

6. What about checked bags?

One important note is that if you check your bags, I don’t recommend staying in the lounge for a long time because you don’t want to “lose” your luggage.

I usually don’t check a bag when I travel domestically.

7. The Priority Pass fee increased from $27 to $32?

I don’t talk about this because most people reading this post or watching our videos most likely are not affected by the price increase. Most readers have complimentary Priority Pass access, and if they don’t, it’s usually not worth paying the entrance fee.

8. Why do you hate Priority Pass lounges in the U.S.?

In my experience, Priority Pass lounges in the U.S. only offer bar snacks and drinks. If you visit a Priority Pass lounge in Asia or Europe, there is usually at least one hot food offering, in addition to drinks and snacks.

I’m a fan of the restaurant additions to the network since I can get a hot meal before my flight.

9. Are the food and alcohol free?

It depends on the lounge and their rules. Most lounges will have complimentary food and drink, but there are exceptions.

Some lounges may have a voucher system for a set limit, and others may have a premium menu that you can order from. The front desk reception will usually notify you if there are any additional charges.

10. Can you use multiple Priority Pass cards for the same meal at the restaurant?

Technically, no. You’re only supposed to use one Priority Pass card per table. However, you can always ask the server to split the tab between two cards so they know what to do accordingly.

On the other hand, you can order food on one card, and come back and use another card for drinks.

Important: Be sure to let your server know that you’re using a Priority Pass card BEFORE you order. They will have to swipe the Priority Pass card to put it in the system.

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