How to get airport lounge access without spending much

Airport lounge access can make a trip far more comfortable. Here are some affordable ways to enjoy the benefits.

A lounge gives you a quiet place to relax before a holiday flight or get work done during a business trip.

Many airport lounges charge for entry, but frequent travelers can sometimes get in for less - or even free - through a suitable credit card or loyalty program.

Ways to get airport lounge access for less

1. Credit card rewards

If you expect to visit an airport lounge several times a year, a credit card with free or reduced-price access may cost you less overall.

Make sure you pay your credit card balance in full every month to avoid steep interest charges.

2. Packaged bank account perks

Packaged bank accounts start at roughly 15 a month and may offer good value, especially when you use the included benefits. Depending on the account, these can cover travel and home insurance, roadside assistance, cashback, freebies, and access to better savings rates.

Some include free airport lounge access - a useful extra for frequent travelers. For example:

The Barclays Travel Plus Pack costs 26 per month and comes with six complimentary lounge visits each year. You can use them at more than 1,000 lounges via the DragonPass Premier Plus app, or swap a visit for an 18 meal voucher at selected airport restaurants. At 39 a month, the NatWest Premier Reward Black account provides unlimited worldwide access to DragonPass Premier Plus lounges.

3. Get a membership

If a rewards credit card or packaged bank account would not give you enough value, a standalone airport lounge membership may suit you better.

Two of the best-known providers are Priority Pass and DragonPass. Their membership options differ, so compare them before signing up.

Swipe to scroll horizontally Check the lounges at the airports you use most before paying for either program.

4. Fly business or first-class

A business- or first-class boarding pass may be enough to get you into an airline lounge at no extra charge.

Some carriers offer far more to their highest-paying passengers. At Cathay Pacific's The Wing, First, travelers can order from an la carte menu, visit the champagne bar, use private workstations, or relax in cabanas fitted with rain showers.

Likewise, Air France's La Premire lounge provides upscale meals and personal beauty or botanical treatments. A private chauffeur can even take you to the airport, though that tailored service costs extra.

5. Have airline elite status

Airlines give their frequent flyers elite status, with rewards tied to how often they travel.

Those rewards vary by programme. They may include free checked bags, priority check-in, or access to airport lounges.

For example:

British Airways gives complimentary lounge access to Emerald and Sapphire members of any Oneworld frequent flyer programme when they fly on BA or another Oneworld airline. British Airways Club Silver and Gold members qualify as well, provided they are travelling on British Airways or a Oneworld partner. On Star Alliance flights, United Airlines admits Premier Gold, Platinum and 1K members to United Club lounges when they are flying internationally; each member may bring one guest. Gold members of Virgin Flying Club can enter a Clubhouse lounge with one guest when travelling on the same flight.

How to get one-time airport lounge access

For a single visit, a lounge pass may cost less than buying airport food and drinks. Passes are available directly from the lounge or through providers including Lounge Pass, LoungePair and Holiday Extras.

Prices usually begin at about 20, but the lounge and its facilities can affect the cost. Booking ahead tends to be cheaper; fares bought on the day of travel are often higher.

If you're unsure which lounge fits your trip, ask the airport you're flying from. BFIA visited Clubrooms by No1 Lounges in Heathrow Terminal Three; it offers a more private experience without requiring a business-class ticket.

Alternatively, Which? has compiled a guide to the UK's best airport lounges, comparing their prices with what they offer, including food and drink.

Can you get airport lounge access for free?

Yes. Some passengers can enter an airport lounge without paying an admission fee.

Business- or first-class passengers may enter for free, as may travelers whose credit cards include lounge access, such as the Platinum Card from American Express. Certain memberships also cover one guest, and military personnel might qualify for complimentary entry.

Look for special offers, too. Signing up for the No1 Lounges or Stansted Airport newsletter can get you 10% off.