Let’s face it: airport lounges are a little slice of luxury in the chaos of travel, free food, comfy seats, fast Wi-Fi, and sometimes even showers or nap pods. But here’s the good news: you don’t need a business class ticket (or to be a frequent flyer elite) to enjoy these perks. Here’s your ultimate guide to getting into lounges like a pro, even in economy.

1. DragonPass

What it is: A global airport lounge access program offering entry to 1,300+ lounges in over 140 countries.

How to access:

• DragonPass membership

• Plans vary by usage:

  • Classic: €99/year including 1 free lounge visit (Additional member or guest visits for €31 per visit)

  • Preferential: €259/year including 8 free visits (Additional member or guest visits for €31 per visit)

  • Prestige: €429/year with unlimited access for the member (Additional member or guest visits for €31 per visit)

Where it works: Major lounges in most international airports, and also includes airport dining, spa services, and fast-track immigration in some airports.

Tip: You can also access some lounges à la carte by booking a one-time visit through the DragonPass app.

2. Priority Pass

What it is: Another major global lounge network—1,500+ lounges worldwide.

Membership options:

• Standard: €66/year + €30 per visit for members and guests

• Standard Plus: €245/year with 10 free visits then €30 for members and guests

• Prestige: €413/year with unlimited visits for members - €30 for guests

Best for: Frequent travelers who want reliable lounge access globally. Priority Pass lounges are often slightly more premium than DragonPass.

Extras: Some memberships also include access to airport restaurants (you get a credit towards your bill).

3. Revolut Lounge Access

What it is: Revolut Rev Points program, gives lounge access to cardholders.

How it works:

• Revolut Rev Points (Free): access to lounges with €34 per visit

• Revolut Premium Plan (€9.99/month): Access to lounges with discounted prices (starting around €24 per visit).

• Revolut Metal Plan (€16.99/month): Access to lounges with discounted prices (starting around €24 per visit).

• Revolut Ultra (€55.00/month): Unlimited access to 1000+ airport lounges

Perks: You can instantly book access in the Revolut app, no need to carry a separate lounge card. It’s perfect for occasional travelers.

4. Airline Elite Status (Frequent Flyer Programs)

What it is: Once you reach a certain tier in your favorite airline’s loyalty program, lounge access is often included, even when flying economy.

Examples:

• Turkish Airlines Miles & Smiles Elite or Elite Plus: Access to Turkish Airlines lounges and Star Alliance lounges when flying any Star Alliance airline.

• Star Alliance Gold (Lufthansa, ANA, United, etc.): Access to 1000+ lounges when flying with a Star Alliance carrier.

• SkyTeam Elite Plus, Oneworld Sapphire: Similar benefits across their respective alliances.

How to get it: You’ll need to accumulate qualifying miles, so it’s best for frequent flyers.

5. Premium Credit Cards with Lounge Access

Some credit cards offer complimentary lounge access as part of their perks. This can be a game-changer if you travel often.

Examples:

• American Express Platinum: Unlimited Priority Pass access + Centurion Lounges (premium) + Plaza Premium lounges.

  • Annual fee: around €700, but comes with tons of other perks.

• Visa Infinite Cards (like N26 Metal or certain bank-issued cards): Often include Priority Pass or DragonPass.

• Revolut Ultra(mentioned above) also qualifies.

Tip: Always check the specific benefits with your card issuer—some offer lounge access only on international flights or limit the number of free entries.

6. Pay-per-Use Lounges

Some lounges allow you to just walk in and pay—no membership or card needed.

Examples:

• Plaza Premium Lounges: Open to anyone, with rates starting from €25–€50 for a 2-3 hour stay.

• LoungeBuddy (App): Lets you find and prepay for lounge access based on airport and terminal.

Bonus: Book a Business Class Flight with Miles

Even if you’re normally an economy traveler, remember: airline miles can get you business class tickets, which include lounge access. Redeem wisely!

Final Tip: Always check lounge hours and capacity. Some lounges are closed at night or full during peak travel.

With all these options, there’s really no reason to sit in a plastic chair next to a screaming toddler ever again. Whether you’re a budget backpacker or a casual traveler, a bit of planning goes a long way, and into the lounge.

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