Priority Pass Is Going Digital: What Travelers Need to Know

Priority Pass is making changes to the way members access airport lounges, moving toward a more convenient and digital travel experience.

If you currently use Priority Pass for airport lounge access, here is what you need to know about the upcoming changes.

Your Digital Membership Card Is Now the Key to Lounge Access

With the Priority Pass+ app, your Digital Membership Card will become your primary method for accessing participating airport lounges.

The app will also allow you to:

• Access your Digital Membership Card

• View your available lounge entitlements

• Explore participating airport lounges

• Manage and personalize your travel preferences

• Have your membership information conveniently available on your phone

For travelers who prefer having everything in one place, this digital approach should make accessing your Priority Pass benefits easier while on the go.

What Happens to Your Physical Priority Pass Card?

There is no need to worry if you currently carry a physical Priority Pass membership card.

Your physical Priority Pass card will continue to work until the expiry date displayed on the card.

Once your physical Priority Pass card expires, you will be able to access lounges using your Digital Membership Card through the Priority Pass+ app.

Your American Express Card Can Also Provide Access

For additional flexibility, eligible travelers can also use their physical American Express® Card to access most Priority Pass lounges. This gives members another option when traveling, particularly if they do not have their physical Priority Pass card with them.

However, lounge access remains subject to the applicable Priority Pass and American Express membership terms and the individual lounge's participation requirements.

What Should You Do Before Your Next Trip?

To make sure you are ready, we recommend taking a few simple steps:

1. Download or update the Priority Pass+ app.Make sure you have the latest version available on your smartphone.

2. Set up your Digital Membership Card.Familiarize yourself with where your digital membership information is located before arriving at the airport.

3. Check your physical Priority Pass card.Look at the expiry date so you know how long you can continue using it.

4. Check your lounge benefits before traveling.Use the app to review available lounges and your current entitlements.

5. Carry your American Express® Card when traveling.If your card is eligible for Priority Pass benefits, your physical American Express Card may provide another way to access most participating lounges.

The Bottom Line

The Priority Pass experience is becoming increasingly digital, with the Priority Pass+ app and Digital Membership Card taking center stage. For now, your physical Priority Pass card remains valid until the expiry date printed on it. After that, the easiest way to access your membership will be through your Digital Membership Card in the Priority Pass+ app.

Our recommendation: Don't wait until your next airport visit to set up your digital membership. Download the app, activate your Digital Membership Card, and familiarize yourself with your lounge benefits before your next journey.

Please note: Lounge access, guest privileges, entitlements, and American Express benefits may vary depending on your specific membership and applicable terms and conditions. Travelers should confirm their eligibility and lounge access details before traveling.

Editors Note: Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any parties mentioned. None of the entities mentioned has reviewed, approved, or endorsed the content listed in this post.