Everything You Need To Know About Airport Lounges... Are They Really Worth It?
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- čas přidán 4. 06. 2024
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I tried the luxury airport lounges to see if they are really worth it!
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Pros of the delta reserve:
-You get lounge access! To BOTH Centurion and Delta SkyClubs
-Medallion status, so you can get the chance to be upgraded on flights
-First class companion ticket, after you have the card for a year
Cons:
You ONLY get lounge access when flying Delta
00:00 Airport Lounges Exist!!
00:29 Types of Lounges
00:51 How To Get In
02:17 The Delta SkyClub Overview
04:43 Thank you Dell for Sponsoring!
07:12 Delta SkyClub Pros & Cons
07:52 The Centurion Lounges
10:25 Priority Pass Lounges
11:27 So... are they worth it?!
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When I was 20 and flew solo I entered a lounge from the airline I flew with thinking it was free for all passengers. 😂 There was none attending the front desk and no signs regarding membership or fees. 🤷 I casually took advantage of the free snacks and drinks 🥯🥤🧁like a boss 😎
😆, awesome!
Theft
@@jeremiahfink5440 Yes. That's what it is to pay for food and drinks at the airports.
🤣🤣🤣
@@Powermass meh. The lounge will survive lol
I was shocked when I found out about these lounges a few years ago. It’s like another world. It makes traveling and layover’s much more pleasant. Sometimes I even get annoyed if my layover isn’t long enough to hang in the lounge.😂
it'll totally change how you travel! I swear, there never is enough lounge time!!
I agree! I’m traveling to Cancun this week and have a 2 hour layover in MEX and everyone is like “Aww, that stinks” and I’m like it really doesn’t when they have a Centurion lounge there 😁 #IYKYK!
@@CashMoneyReckadz Ha ha!! Enjoy that darn layover!!!
@@CashMoneyReckadz you won’t have time to enjoy the lounge lol
yeah I'm going to have to try these at some point...typically when I fly it's to places here on the west coast of North America, so no layover, and I will come maybe an hour early (I know the TSA says two hours but I've been there as late as 15 min before boarding ends and had no problem getting on plane...), so I feel like in most cases I wouldn't be there long enough to benefit.
On the other hand, there's definitely something to be said for a guaranteed seat as opposed to potentially having to stand for an hour. :)
I flew business class to Japan via Singapore Airlines and let me tell you, with a 6 hr layover, the lounge is a GAME CHANGER. I didn't even care that I had a 6 hr layover. My first time in a lounge and it won't be the last.
Lounges are a game changer. They transform your flights from a harrowing experience to a downright pleasant one. I actually leave early now and try and schedule long layovers so I can hit up the lounges.
Hey Kris - awesome that you find lounges to be a big value add to your experience! ✈️ Do you get in via credit cards, elite status, or both?
@@MarkReese I get lounge access with my AMEX Platinum
@@whitefangv - Nice! Definitely the best card out there for lounge access! 💯
Wish Lax had Priority pass lounges but they don’t.
they are good but not good enough for me to schedule long layovers 😅
We have the American Airlines Admiral's Club access and it is worth it. Some lounges have areas for sleeping, showers (good for international and long domestic flights) sectioned off areas for working or business calls, etc. AA also has a special customer service area that can help you rebook missed or cancelled flights without having to wait in line downstairs - worth it. Cons: AA's food isn't as good as Centurion, but AA also has a Flagship Lounge which is a huge step up from the regular lounge. Given that we travel a lot for both business and pleasure, lounge access (with the ability to bring four guests in!) is so worth it.
A few things to consider, if you have a particular airline that you love/prefer to travel, checkout if they have lounges and if they are on routes that you frequent. If you have passes to United lounges but you fly to Alaska a lot, it won’t do you much good. And also, check if your airline partners with other airlines to use their lounges. For instance American Airlines gives you access to Alaska Airline lounges.
I used to travel 32+ times per year across the US and lounges are the way to go. Aside form that, great update as to how things are now. Back in my day of travels (1990's) I eventually went AMEX platinum to get into whatever airline lounge I had a ticket for. Now I see things have changed (even the old Crown lounge is now Sky lounge). Again, nice update.
I loooooove the Centurion Lounge. Always a great experience and they actually make great cocktails. But every time I’ve ever been, it’s packed. The food area filters out very quickly, but the business/lounge/workspace is never open. So getting work done has always been a pipe dream for me.
same the food is amazing but not great for getting work done hahaha
And I am sooooo glad they are limiting cardholders guests because they were too crowded.
Hey Robuilt - yep I know what you mean 😄✌️ I'm also a big fan of the Centurion Lounge, though I use it more often when I want a full meal / drink / a social environment. When it comes to being productive, I much prefer airline-operated lounges (Delta, United, AA, Alaska) as those tend to be much quieter and attract a business crowd. Have you tried any of those instead for getting work done? ✈️
When you said always packed, I think maybe that’s why Amex is changing the rules/policies starting in 2023 which is next year?! I think they listen customers that been complaining about “too many people”. Lol! People is going to have to start paying $50 per person if you’re going to bring guests with you to get access to lounges? Am I wrong? I don’t think I’m making sense here? Lol! That’s what I’ve heard and read.
@@ShelbyChurch not sure if they have this in the US, but in Hong Kong, there's a section of the Centurion Lounge which is only accessible by Centurion Card (aka Black Card) holders, it's a full-service restaurant, and never crowded.
Just retired from a career where I traveled internationally in business whereby allowed access to United's lounges. Got to see nearly every corner of the world and loved the low stress inside these lounges, especially Asia Pacific. Solid review, thanks.
Yes..agree..Hongkong Cathay pacific lounge is one of the best..
One thing to note, you don't have to fly First Class on International Flights for lounge access, just business class. It's definitely worth it on international flights as you typically have longer layovers. Also, the shower after an international flight is so awesome.
Great points, Josh! What has been the best international airport lounge experience you've had? 😃✈️
I did this recently on business class to Japan via Singapore airlines. Awesome.
If you’re a frequent traveler, Chase Sapphire Reserve is the best travel card and includes Priority Pass and is way more than worth it. My husband is in banking and finance so he’s done a thorough review of these cards. Also the lounges outside the US are almost always much better and more luxurious. Plus the sapphire reserve travel site to book flights with points (particularly international) also is more than worth the Annual fee. We love it so much
I asked for this video, and really appreciate that you did it. Very informative. Thank you, Shelby! ✈️
Hi Jeannine! Since watching Shelby's video a few months back, have you been to any airport lounges prior to your flights? 😃✈️
This brings back memories of traveling with British Airlines and getting into the Lounge at Heathrow Airport. I enjoyed the clean bathrooms to freshen up after the 8 hour flights.
Correction: both first class and business class get lounge access when you are flying internationally
excellent distinction! even some premium transcon routes include lounge access. one thing that wasn't covered is the premium airline lounges, such as the United Polaris Lounge and American Airlines Flagship Lounge (not to mention Flagship First Dining)
@@PointsPassport 😁
American airlines flashship business class gets flagship lounge access for domestic routes.
@@phantpwr yes exactly!
Clean, quiet, polite, peaceful, and nicely appointed bathrooms. I buy day passes when I travel, even if it's for only an hour or two. You can board the plane with a degree I'd comfort, which the regular waiting areas cannot provide.
Such a solid overview and comparison across the different types of lounges! Centurion Lounges are definitely the best for domestic US travel, although they can be overcrowded. It's worth noting that when flying international business class or first class, United offers their Polaris Lounge and American Airlines has the Flagship Lounge. Some premium transcon routes also offer complimentary access to these lounges, and they tend to be better and less crowded than the Centurion Lounge
I think the best thing about the lounges is the peace and quiet. I could never relax before boarding a flight now I have a place where I can start my vacation early or I can work on some emails early before a work trip. If there is a delay the value goes way up since the last time I had a delay without lounge access I spent $200 at the bar for food and drink. So I may never go back to normal airport life. Also a lot of these credit cards come with TSA pre check credits also they cover airline incidentals like check bags and flight changes. All in all great video. If you get these credit cards you will have to pay attention to your benefits to make it worth it.
Great Video! I rarely use Airport Lounges but when I do, it is a nice "break" from the normal airport chaos.
100% it is! really changes your entire travel experience
Hey Aaron - agreed that the lounges are a better experience than the airport chaos 😄✈️ Have you been to any lounges so far in 2022?
Worthy to note that the priority pass has a lot of options for free food (up to a certain price per visit) at a load of airport restaurants so you don't always have to visit the lounge to get benefits from the membership. SEA has a few different great options that allows you to get food/drink at some of the sit down restaurants instead of actually going to the different lounge options there.
Great point, Tucker! Have you tried any of the restaurant options at SEA? 😃✈️
how do you find out about this stuff? it just seems so easy to miss
FYI this isn't the case anymore, at least with Capital One cards.
Priority pass is damn good for international travel. I travel once or twice from my home country to USA and priority pass gave me access for all international airports. It’s super useful when you knew that you can count on the pass and travel without worries, especially when I have long lay over period in another strange country.
You get a $25 allotment but still have to pay the BS 20% tip so it ends up being about $11 for the meal.
the amex platinum really is the "if you get everything else wrong, get this one thing right". Also the purple skymiles card, which is great on domestic flights because as long as you fly delta in any class, if you've got the purple card you can get into the sky club. Between those two I feel pretty much covered in the continental US.
1:27 Lol at the girl peeping at you through the seats
Haha I didn't notice that til you pointed it out 😂✌️ Have you been to any airport lounges during your travels?
I agree with the 8 times per year! Also good if you have to fly from a small regional airport to a major airport. For example my home airport only has a few flights per day to Seattle so I regularly have long layovers of 2+ hours. This is a good way to pass time, save on food, relax, etc. It’s a lot quieter and it’s nice to be able to always get a seat!
Hi Sandy - great point above 😃✈️ Which lounges do you use when traveling from a small regional airport to a larger one?
@@MarkReese I use Alaska or Centurion when I have a layover at SeaTac. If it’s just me and it’s a long one I like the quietness of Alaska’s lounge. If I have family traveling with me Centurion is great
@@sandys209 - Awesome! I feel the same way about Centurion vs. airline-operated lounges. For me on the AA side, the Admirals Club is nearly always better for the quiet environment, whereas the Centurion is better for good / social atmosphere 😃💯
@@MarkReese I e never used the Admiral Club but that’s good to know. I just haven’t flown AA a lot but that will likely change due to Alaska’s One World partnership and my upcoming travel plans the next few years
I've flown over 16 million miles, most of which has been trans-pacific. I have found the Cathay Pacific first class lounge in Hong Kong to be the best. The British Airways Concorde lounge at JFK was great too but alas, no more Concorde flights.
Best credit card for travel?
16 million jesus, you are 9 million short of being the most flown flier.
I really enjoyed this informative video Shelby. I especially liked the food reviews!
lol the food is the important part of the lounges in my opinion!!
I honestly don't get how people don't use the AMEX platinum to its full extent. You could use the free walmart plus, hulu, and TSA pre, and you have your money's worth. Then you get free lounge access on top of that, get 180 dollars of free uber eats, deals on luxury clothing, and the status symbol of having a AMEX platinum. Also the AMEX card gives access to nice lounges internationally I got into a Lufthansa first class lounge with it and it blew my mind.
Status symbol 😂
@@tomoflathead Yeah it's kind of a status symbol because of its exclusivity. The Black card is definitely a status symbol.
@@aiv4873 if it was exclusive then the Centurion lounges would not have a twenty minute queue.
@@lukejohnson1274 I guess it just depends on luck, I've never really waited for a lounge however one time they didn't let me in bc of max capacity and I just went to one across the terminal with 0 wait.
yay, we got the iconic cute "bye" at the end. Thank you Shelby
Awesome Video! Love this type of content!! Would love to see more airport/airline oriented videos!
She absolutely crushed the lounge reviews! If you're into airport lounge content, I had some more in-depth reviews of the Centurion Lounges
Hey Caleb! Have you been to any airport lounges since watching Shelby's video? 😃✈️
Airport lounges are 100% worth them when you fly international (PS: if you have status with any SkyTeam airline, you can access all SkyTeam lounges when you fly internationally, even if you're in economy)
I often fly from the US to Europe and need to connect in Amsterdam or Paris. I love that I can get in the lounge to get shower (after a 10 hour flight, it feels great), grab some food and coffee, and just rest in a quieter place than outside. Especially in Europe, I found lounges less crowded than in the US, and in some really busy airports like CDG 2F (where most Schengen flights are) the additional quiet space is amazing.
Hi Alessando - awesome that you get to use the lounges when flying from the US to Europe 😃✈️ Do you qualify for elite status each year?
I liked that you made the noise comparison. It’s really true. You can relax way more in a lounge.
You can stack up enough miles to qualify for lounge passes as well. I fly international business so got enough to give me 8 lounge passes for the year. I use them when I travel economy domestically.
The Delta Sky Club is totally worth it in my opinion. $75 a month for access plus I get a guest every time I go. It’s awesome!
agreed if you fly often enough, you probably save money on food / drink
@@ShelbyChurch Definitely! We travel a few times a month and especially with pandemic (we are in Atlanta) it’s nice to have space to create distance. Almost every concourse has a different Sky Club so we never have to go far to the gate either!
Why would you pay $845/year just for Sky Club membership when you get the same access (plus a ton of credits and benefits) with the Amex Platinum ($695/year) and Amex Delta Reserve ($550/year)? You are paying more for less.
@@edwink1467 valid point
@@Slanghomy Right? $695 Amex Platinum gives them access to Delta Sky Club (when flying Delta), Centurion, Priority Pass, Escape, AND Plaza Premium lounges. They even added Lufthansa’s lounges recently that you can use when flying with Lufthansa regardless of class. This is not to mention a whole bunch of other credits and benefits like TSA Precheck/Global Entry, Clear, $200 airline incidental, $200 Uber, $200 hotel, $240 entertainment, $100 Saks credit, and more.
If you are going to pay $845/year, why not pay a little less for much more?
Been to the Centurion lounge once. They had grilled salmon, ramen (good quality) and green pea puree (fancy 😂). Food is 10/10 and free drinks. Priority Pass have good lounges as well, and it's free with some premium credit cards with a cheaper annual fee than the Amex Platinum. Keep in mind the seating is 100x better than the cardboard seats near the boarding area.
Hey Joey - haha yep the seating is definitely better 😁👌 Did you decide to keep your Amex Platinum Card after the annual fee hike to $695?
Awesome video! I think one section of broll was missing audio though?
Singapore Air usually has a superb lounge, and they have silver and gold/platinum lounges at Singapore airport, and your membership status or first vs business status qualifies you for the higher option. Also if you’re travelling with someone who has a higher membership, you can go in with them for free. Qantas is also pretty good.
I was flying with Singapore Air and in Frankfurt they partner with Lufthansa to use their lounge. It was a decently nice space (with showers and beds) although I would think the food would have been much better if Singapore Air was running it.
100% agree that the best (and most affordable) way to get in are credit cards!
it's the simpliest and most convenient way to get in. keeping it simple = more time for champagne!
@@PointsPassport Definitely have to agree to the simplicity of it!
I have a Amex Business Charge Card I wonder if that qualifies me for lounge access...
@@msway836 - Hey there, if it's the Amex Business Platinum Card, then yes you've got access to a variety of different airport lounges ✈️ If it's a different Amex charge card, then it won't have lounge access.
I’ve been to a couple across Europe and they’re pretty good value for the food/drink.
Also travelling to the states they typically have USO for service members which are free to get in if you serve/veteran (I’m with U.K. army and always been warmly welcomed :) )
Great video! I love the airport lounge experience, which is why I love reviewing them so much.
Love how you get right to the point and make it so clear. I tried to google this before and just gave up.
It can definitely be a little tricky to understand at first, but once you get the hang of lounge access it'll change how you travel forever!
Hey there! Agreed on the above 💯 Have you spent any time in airport lounges? 😃✈️
I got the United card solely for access to the lounge on an upcoming trip. I'll have a long layover at ORD both going and returning, so it'll be nice to have a lounge rather than trying to find a good spot in the terminal. Plus, this card waives the annual fee for the first year, so I can always downgrade it before that year is up to avoid an annual fee! So in essence, it's free lounge access (they give you 2 passes), plus I'll get 70k points once I spend enough on the card.
You get access to United Club and Polaris Lounge with the United card?
@@neilcharles2520 you get 2 free passes to United Club, not Polaris lounge. As I understand it, you have to have a seat in Polaris business class to get into that lounge, but there may be some other ways with status, or maybe the top tier CC.
@@huntstyle I think with the most expensive United card,you get a pass to Polaris...I am flying MCO-IAD-CDG in July on Polaris BC and have a 4.5 ht layover at IAD and will make full use of it,on my return it's a 2.5 hr layover..i heard the lounge at CDG is also very good that United uses..The good thing is once your leg includes an International flight,you can use The Polaris lounge..
The edit on this video was awesome Shelby!! Great job. Incredible work!!
Hey there! Have you been to any airport lounges over the past few months since watching Shelby's video? 😃✈️
I have a capital one venture card (not venture x, just venture) it is a $99 annual fee and gives me access to all plaza premium lounges. They have one lounge in dallas that i just happened to go to. Just being there made me feel very fancy haha. I will be going to the lounge in rome this year and london next year and doesnt cost me anything just the $99 annual fee (the card came with 75000 rewards miles too, truly worth it!)
Very informative, and well presented. I'm well into my 70s, living on a limited fixed income, and can't travel very much, but it's nice to dream about it.
Hey there! Airport lounge access aside, do you use credit cards to earn rewards on your monthly expense? 😃💳
@@MarkReese That's baseline.
For business travelers, they’re worth it because they spend so much of their lives traveling, they need a place to unwind, de stress and relax. For everyone else they’re not worth the hassle.
Hey Norman - great point about the business travelers...those lounges definitely make their crazy lifestyles a bit better 😁👍 Have you experienced any of them?
If you're traveling with a significant other or family sometimes that increases the value significantly. Also some policy changes coming to Centurion in Feb 2023 to help with the overcrowding. Priority Pass lounges internationally (Spain, Mexico, Peru, etc) definitely are worthwhile.
Love your video! Was just researching what credit to use for mileage points internationally. Thank you
Great video Shelby! I also have the Delta reserve card and it's welll worth the perks.
Competition is getting stronger with other airline lounges stepping up their game vs centurion lounges. That will be good over time.
Competition is definitely good for the consumer. The only downside is the Centurion Lounges are becoming so popular that they're frequently overcrowded, whereas the airline lounges tend to me more relaxing, but don't offer the same spread of amenities
Hey Bobby! Awesome that you get good use out of the Delta Reserve Card 😃✈️ How frequently do you use the Delta Sky Club locations?
Definitely will be coming back to this video in the future when deciding on which lounge to go for! Very informative video that is well organized and detailed
if you need any help with lounge access, feel free to let me know!
Hi Bailey - have you been to any lounges yet since viewing Shelby's video earlier in 2022? 😃✈️
One thing to keep in mind when you come back to this video is that a lot of airlines are upgrading their lounges. They are making them bigger and adding more amenities. This vid is definitely a very well laid out video to start with for sure.
Amex Platinum has got great bang for your buck IF you travel enough. The fee has crept up over the years and they don't allow a free guest with you so that sucks. When they allowed you and a guest I could literally bring in my whole group of friends (5-6) at Detroit Delta Sky Lounge by just going out of the club and rechecking back in with a new guest.
Hey Phil! Did you decide to keep your Amex Platinum Card open after the annual fee went up to $695? 💳
Even when I have lounge access I almost always spend my time between flights at a decent bar/restaurant and if I'm at my destination I get out of the airport as fast as possible. The food and drinks are terrible in the American and Delta lounges (the ones I have experience with). They're handy if you get stuck for a long time during a layover but the bar/restaurant options are the vastly better experience in every airport I've been in if you just have a typical 1 - 2 hr layover.
A decent mixed drink at any bar in the airport is over $20.00 with one shot of alcohol and a tap beer is $15.00....soda/water/juice/milk/coffee is $5.00....A complete rip off...I will spend the xtra for a day pass,even if for one hour..
I've only used the United lounges in two airports. I was on an overseas business trip and my company paid for business class tickets. I loved the lounges. They are quieter and much more relaxing than the general airport. The one issue is that you should still have to check on your flight. It just doesn't seem so urgent in the lounge, but you don't want to miss your flight.
Hey Leslie - awesome that you got to experience the United Club a couple times 😃✈️ Do you remember seeing flight monitors throughout the lounge to keep an eye on departure times?
@@MarkReese I last experienced a couple of United lounges in 2011. There was a board with times at the inside entrance, but not throughout. At that time, you could request the host/hostess to inform you some time before your flight.
@@lesliefranklin1870 - Got it. Having the agent inform you is a nice touch 👌
United and most airlines keeps track on their business class passengers,especially if they have checked luggage on the plane,won't leave until your luggage is taken off,so they will send a rep to look for you at the lounge or make an announcement..
Awesome video, Shelby. These insights and recommendations on best Airport Lounges will come very handy when traveling. Thank you for sharing your experience.
On the side note, it is good to know when not to use or pay for Airport Lounges. I think for occasional travelers it may not worth the hassle.
Hi Shah - good point about occasional / infrequent travelers ✈️✌️ Do you ever use airport lounges?
Day passes can't be purchased for Delta Sky Clubs. Starting June 1, 2022, access not allowed after flight unless one flew Delta One.
Do Minute Suites next! I go through DFW a lot and it is SO lovely to have a space all to myself for an hour or two - very quiet, restful, and rejuvenating :-)
Was going to ask the same thing.
Hey there! Awesome to hear you had a great experience at the Minute Suites at DFW 😃✈️ I've passed by it a number of times but haven't used it yet. Did you get in via Priority Pass?
@@MarkReese Yes, I did! It was quick & easy to "check in" and the rooms are VERY quiet. No free food like a lounge but the privacy is so nice :-)
(Edited to add: there are snacks & drinks for purchase, also wifi, multiple charging plugs & a tv for Netflix watching, plus a couch to lounge or nap on.)
@@CHSwildcats19 - Sounds great when peace & quiet is desired! I'll give it a go when I get the chance 💯
Just want to say how impressive your content continues to be (especially when so many channels are just vlog channels these days), you’ve managed to still create such creative and helpful videos that stand out!!
Good point I’m starting my channel and you hit it on the nose with that one.
Hi Krisanta! Have you experienced any airport lounges yourself? 😃✈️
airport lounges were critical for my sanity when i was traveling 10+ times a year for work and constantly had my schedules change when i was away. now that i work from home and only fly 2-4 times a year for fun, not so much. great video!
Hey Erika - totally agreed 💯 Back when I traveled a ton for work, the lounge networks made a big difference. Which one(s) did you use most?
A nice introduction to the Lounge experience, thanks for such a well constructed presentation!
I am platinum in UA and Delta, flying several international flights per year. In my experience, NO is not. They use to be good but now they overcrowded thanks to people that have access due credit cards. If I go to one is to use either the bathroom or showers, for food or drink I just go a bar or restaurant.
Darn, my regular American Express card still keeps me among the commoners. Maybe someone from the American Express upper-class will throw me a cookie, from the balcony!
Hey Chris - which Amex card do you have? 😃💳
Great video, Shelby! Agreed on airport lounges being completely worth it. It's a way better place to relax than waiting by the gates. You're spot on about food being one of the most important things about lounges!
totally agree! airport lounges are almost 100% worth it, especially the Centurion Lounge! They're definitely the best in the US for domestic travel, although they can be overcrowded
Hey Charles! Have you had a chance to visit any airport lounges in 2022 yet? 😃✈️
Agreed - I have been using delta sky club for years and will never go back. Only wish there were more centurion lounges available!
Diner's Club also gives you lounge access in several cities, and I loved it when I was still traveling.
Hey Todd - good point about the Diner's Club! Which location was your favorite back when you traveled?
Delta Reserve gets you access to Centurion lounges IF you pay for the ticket with the Reserve card. Gold Medallion status (and above) without any credit card does get you + 1 guest access to KLM and Air France lounges. The Delta Reserve annual fee can be offset when you take advantage of the annual free companion pass. Delta Reserve also allows you to bring a guest for free to Skyclub lounges when flying internationally.
Hey Jennie - great points above! 😃✈️ Do you have the Delta Reserve Card yourself?
@@MarkReese Yes, I've had it for many years.
@@jenniemorel7819 - Awesome card, both for the lounge access + ability to spend towards Medallion Status! 😃✈️ Great choice!
@@MarkReese agree completely, I maintain Gold or Platinum every year thanks to card spend and the annual companion pass + lounge access justifies the fee.
I saw that Dell and thought this has to be a sponsor! No way you’d use a Dell 😂
I've only use the amex lounges since I'm a platinum cardholder, it's a game changer! So worth it
I think you can get into Delta lounges with that card! It’s one of the perks. We usually fly delta and That’s the card I show to get in. I’ve actually never been in an AmEx lounge.
@@mahoganydrive yes you're right, I've been meaning to try the delta lounge out
@@toriawilliams749 and I need to try centurion!
it completely changes your entire travel experience! I absolutely love the Centurion Lounges, as long as they're not overcrowded lol
@@PointsPassport last time I was in CLT it was too crowded, a little disappointing, hopefully, they can resolve that soon enough
I have Amex Platinum, and I can definitely recommend . It has great insurance, fast track, lounge access, and sometimes nice offer with restaurants .
Food can vary from American cheese cubes and Ritz crackers in United club to full buffet spreads at Tap Portugal in Europe.
Hey Garth - yep, the domestic vs. international experience can be quite different 😄👍 Do you fly internationally frequently each year?
Wow! You reviewed things I didn’t even think would be a factor like WiFi speed!
Hey Cynthia - haha yep WiFi speed can make a big difference if you plan to get some work done during a trip 😁✈️ Have you been to any airport lounges?
Awesome breakdown whether getting a lounge pass or not. I think the most convenient premium credit card perk is the TSA precheck accommodation
Which premium card is your favorite?
Hey Nathan! Do you have any travel credit cards that you're using at the moment? 😃💳
Precheck is a joke,you can still get pulled out of the line and searched...happened to me a few times and i also have Global pass..
Love your videos!! What cameras do you use? Is there a link somewhere with your equipment? :)
I do have a link! I used the panasonic GH5 for years and just got a Sony A7Siii. This video is shot on the Gh5!
Australian here. I live in Sydney and worked in Karratha (look it up on a map) and did the return trip with Qantas once a month for ten years. I made gold which gave me access to the regular Qantas lounge in Australia plus theirs and all partners' business lounges outside Australia in six months with a guest in tow who need not be flying but only before my flight, and Platinum which gave me access to Qantas' business lounges in Australia plus theirs and all partners' first class lounges outside Australia after a year with two guests before and after a flight. I'd use the lounge in Sydney, Perth and Karratha on every trip and find it incedible that domestic travellers in the US can't access the lounges. Back in 2018, wife and I went to the UK via Dubai and let me tell you, you haven't lived until you've been in the Emirates (Qantas partner) first class lounge in Dubai. Came back via Singapore and Qantas' lounge there was very nice as was the one at Heathrow. Going to Spain next year via Dubai both ways with a 10 hour layover on the return. To have someone wait on us hand and foot (I'm not exaggerating) for 10 hours will be hard to take but we'll manage. Oh, I made lifetime gold after nine years so even though I left that job four years ago and only fly occaisionally now, I have lounge access all over the world (One World) for life and just to top it off, all flights to and from work were paid for by the company so all this didn't cost me one red cent. Long story short, lounge access makes a huge difference to flying, even if you go economy. Funny story - there are two ways to leave the Emirates 1st class lounge in Dubai and which one you use depends on where your seat is on the plane. I asked the attendant and she asked to see my boarding pass to see where my seat was. When she saw I was in an economy seat, the look on her face was utterly priceless. She couldn't believe I was in there.
FYI, the Delta SkyClub no longer offers a day pass option. You can only get access by buying an annual pass or by having one of the credit cards you mention. Also, you are correct that international flights in Delta One (their upscale version of first class) offer access to the SkyClub, as do transcontinental domestic flights between LAX or SFO and JFK.
Hey ajs11201 - great points above 👍 Did you hear about the new restrictions Delta is implementing on their Sky Club locations starting on June 01, 2022? ✈️
@@MarkReese
No, I haven't heard. Can you give a summary?
@@ajs11201
(1) Access only permitted up to 3 hours prior to departure. Exceptions include connecting flights & delayed flights.
(2) Can no longer use after arrival.
@@MarkReese
Oh, that's a disappointment. Thanks for sharing.
A couple years ago we were not allowed in the Delta lounge because they did not consider The Dominican Republic as an international flight, even though we are AE Platinum card holders too.
This was a good video. I want to add a few things. First is that is is only from an USA perspective but maybe that was impilicity? Cause you forgot a forth way to access lounge and that is by getting status with an airline. Then you get access no matter what class your ticket is as long as you fly international. In most other countries you get access to the lounge if you have status no matter what class your ticket is in. As a Star alliance gold member I get access to all star alliance lounges all over the world (except national in the US). That "force" you to be more loyal. And if you have status some airline has a more exclusive lounge as Lufthansa, they have a senator lounge for everyone who is Star Alliance gold member or higher. A bit better selection, more space etc. LOT has that too but just in Warsaw (what I know about). It is a jungle.
this is so true, thanks for adding that point! I know some people who will earn status on an international carrier so that they have access to all of the airline lounges domestically (say you earn British Airways status but usually fly American). it's definitely a different level when you get into the international airline status hacks
Hi Johanna - great addition about gaining access to airport lounges via status ✈️😃 Do you qualify for elite status each year on a specific airline?
@@MarkReese You sign up for a bonus program with one airline. Then you get points from every airline in the alliance but the number of points varies. And you have to qualify each year.
@@johannaengman2594 - Awesome!
Thank you for testing the network speeds in the lounges. In this day where we're always looking for a connection, so many people doing location reviews leave this out. I'm subbing just for your speed test alone!
As a military veteran, I use the USO's. After serving my country, that's what was required.
It may be less posh. I still love it!
Hi Brenda! Awesome that you enjoy the USO lounges 😃✈️ Do you also use any travel credit cards to earn rewards on your monthly expenses?
Such an accurate video hitting all the points. You’re right. Priority pass on America is trash. In foreign countries, next level. Sometimes centurion level with the food and beverages. And sometimes free neck massages or massage chairs
yeah the Priority Pass lounges in the US are kinda a miss
Hi Jay! Yep those international locations have it quite good 😁✈️ Which lounge has been your best experience so far?
Just to clarify: top tier status does get you into lounges. It's just usually not the listed statuses.
Agreed - it does get you in.
In GCC countries we have lounge key for VISA/MASTERCARD Credit Cards and Priority Pass for American Express. There is No special lounge for American express cardholders. Credit/debit card available networks are VISA, MasterCard and JCB. Most of credit card providers (BANKS) are giving free lounge key membership for cards like Visa signature/infinite cards and world/world elite MasterCard. It doesn’t matter if its debit or credit card as it matters of how much you are earning per month. If your income is +2600 USD/month then you are eligible to get credit/debit card without annual fee with many benefits including free unlimited lounge Access in +1200 Airport worldwide. In some Airports you can get free access to Airport hotels/Spa as well but for limited counts to mostly 10 visits/year.
Great video! Is it easy to access your gate though the lounges? Like is there a private entrance or something?
When comparing two cards. I would go with the platinum AMEX over the delta reserve. With the platinum you get more lounge access, and do not need a same day boarding pass of that airline for that day. I also think the liberty of transferring points to many airlines through AMEX. Opposed to just getting Delta points with the purple Reserve
Hey Jordan - great points above! Did you get the Amex Platinum Card yourself? 😃✈️
@@MarkReese I did actually go with the AMEX Platinum. For the very reason that I mostly fly through the airports with Centurion Lounges. And to me that was worth it alone. And the AMEX points to British Airways gets amazing bonuses. Stretch those points baby!
@@jordannarlock7995 - Nice! Great to hear that you've found strong value with those transfer to BA! ✈️
I love airport lounges, but only when it's an access pass gift from a relative or close friend. Credit cards that give you access to them automatically have you pay the membership upfront with that annual fee charge.
Hi Aaliyah! Which lounge did you go to most recently? 😃✈️
Very nice video! I've been doing research to decide whether to get a lounge access credit card or not and this made deciding much easier. Just wondering, have you been to the Admirals Club?
Shower was so worth it. When i flew from Hawaii back to NY. Left North Carolina super refreshed and Drunk, haha a drunk shower. Also, idk what you're talking about, the outside outlets all work just fine. I've never had a problem with them.
I have Priority Pass through my Hilton credit card. It gives me 10 visits to lounges a year and I pay $95 for the card.
Do they have their own Hilton lounges or can one access these too?
@@aayotechnology no they don’t have lounges at airports, but if you get the Hilton Aspire card, you get Hilton Diamond status which grants you access to their executive lounges at some of their hotels.
@@Calisunshine143 depends on where you fly - priority pass is limited on lounge access to Seattle, LAX, and SF - check the PP website first -- if you fly often AMEX Plat is the way to go
Hi Anna - great that you've got the Hilton Honors Surpass Card...definitely one of the best ways to get Priority Pass with a low annual fee 😃💯 Have you been to any lounges so far in 2022?
@@aayotechnology - Hey there. Some Hilton hotels have lounges, but access to those is obtained via elite status with Hilton or paying for a room that includes lounge access. The Hilton credit card that Anna was referring to comes with a separate membership called Priority Pass, and that gives access to a network of airport lounges. Do you have any travel credit cards at the moment? 😃✈️
SHELBY!! The best lounge I was ever in worldwide. is the EMIRATES Platinum first class lounge in DUBAI !! Truly an amazing experience!! Keep up your excellent content! Greetings from Canada!!
GIDDYUP!!
Hey James - so cool that you got a chance to use the Emirates Platinum 1st Class Lounge! ✈️ What part made it the best?
Emirates lounge DEL New Delhi is nice, too.
omg thank you for this video! I've been researching airport lounges for future trips!
Hey oceanikki! Have you experienced any airport lounges yet? 😃✈️
60 bucks can be actually worth it, if you have a long layover. I just had a 5 hour layover and a lounge with great food and the option to get some rest is so much better than the airport itself - where you typically also easily pay 20 bucks for pretty bad food and it's too busy to actually get rest. I've had lunch, dinner, desert, snacks in between, red wine (a 95 Cabernet, so a good one) for dinner and champagne (Moet Chandon) before the flight - I guess that's a pretty good 60 Dollar package.
The paying lounges in The USA has a 3 hour max and no showers..and closes early...
Shelby, your next mission could be to try the Windsor suit at Heathrow Terminal 5, 🤩
LAX has some kind of similar thing but I have no idea of what it’s like 😬🤦🏻♂️
That would be an awesome video to watch! I think access to the Windsor Suites costs $5,055 for 3 hours 😄✈️ Have you been to any airport lounges yourself?
Awesome video! My only complaint is I wished you post more lol
Hey Jhon - have you been to any airport lounges yourself since watching Shelby's video? ✈️
FYI, any active duty military gets all the benefits on the American Express credit cards without the annual fee😌
Great point, Jenna! Do you / someone in your household have those Amex card fees waived? 😃💳
I travel a lot, business class all the time and because of that and my status I have access to these lounges. The true is that I barely use them. Either because I don't have enough time between connections, others because they are always busy and most important, they offer cheap beer and food. If I am hungry/thirsty I would go to a bar/restaurant instead. I mostly used them for the toilettes and sometimes the showers.
Totally understand preferring restaurants / bars over lounges over lounges for certain things 👍 Do you carry any credit cards that offer lounge access in addition to access from status?
Great video Shelby! Also wanted to add, active duty military members get those Amex annual fees WAIVED! We have a couple of Amex platinum cards and don't pay that hefty $695 annual fee! :)
Hey Jen! Awesome that you've got the annual fee waiver for those Amex Platinum Cards 😃💯 Did they automatically receive the fee waivers simply by choosing 'military' as the income source on the application?
@@MarkReese No, we had to contact Amex and submit documents according to the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA).
@@JenWoodhouse1 - Got it, thanks! Enjoy the cards 👍
They’re just sort of… fine. Seldom worth it alone but if they’re a perk already on your card, great! Feels like a huge upgrade from most airports super drab regular terminal seating… AND during COVID you’re in an area with way fewer people and better cleaning policies, which is neat.
Yep the lounges are definitely better than the terminal 😃✈️ Have you been to any so far this year?
This was actually helpful. Much appreciated Shelby.
Helpful overview! SEA Sky Club is one of my favorite lounges. The food was great and there was always plenty of seating available when I visited. Centurion Lounges are great as mentioned in the video. The only downside is if there is waitlist or when it is crowded. Thanks for sharing!
Hey Sam - yeah the waitlist moments at the Centurion Lounge aren't great ✌️ Hopefully Amex will solve that issue overtime. How often do you get to use the Delta Sky Club at SEA? ✈️
I’ve been going to lounges for 3+ years now and I have to say…Amex Centurion Lounges are THE best!
Agreed! Best food, drinks and overall atmosphere!
Hey Katherine - yep those Centurion Lounges are awesome! 😃✈️ Which one(s) do you use most frequently?
I’m from Sweden and I’m a new Amex platinum card holder. I’ll be flying into JFK in a few weeks for a 17h layover, then flying from Newark down to Medellin. Can I still access the centurion lounge at JFK even though I’m not flying out from JFK? And also, does anyone know if there are any good lounges at Newark that I can access with my platinum card? Thanks!
Very useful video material. Thank You for the overview of lounges.
Very nice and clearly spoken..you are great.
Thank you so much i really like your clear explenation.
Good Luck
I am A fan.
I just came back from a trip.. I thought this is about worldwide lounges haha always wanted to see why there is need of this..
Hey E.D. - have you experienced any airport lounges during any of your travels? ✈️
If you sign up for an airline credit card for an upcoming trip to use the miles, it might be worth it to splurge on something like the Delta Reserve AMEX for the lounge access. Just make it part of your vacation budget and enjoy the perks for a year!
Good way to put it, Anthony! Do you have any credit cards at the moment that provide access to airport lounges? 😃✈️
@@MarkReese i haven't flown since Jan 2020 and am now just sitting on a crap ton of miles. I'll likely spring for the Delta Reserve for a future trip to Europe.
@@anthonyc8499 - Awesome! Those miles will be put to good use ✈️
You forgot to show a few more things with the Centurion Lounge. they have cubes to take calls or to work. They also have showers etc. I've always had a Amex card with the access. I just never actually took advantage of it until this year! I couldn't believe I never stepped foot in.
You would be correct in that the international Priority Pass lounges are far superior to those in the US. More times than not in my experience, you cannot even get into a Priority Pass lounge in the US without having to wait. And although you did not go into detail with the American Airlines Admirals Club lounges (which aren't all that great), if you get a business class ticket, you can get access to the Flagship First lounges (which are *really* good! I think the Miami Flagship First lounge might be the best domestic lounge in the US). If you fly LAX/SFO to MIA/JFK, you can get access to the AA Flagship First (and not Admirals Club) lounges.