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The Best Wireless Travel Routers of 2024

Pocket routers for Wi-Fi networking on the road

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Frequent travelers battling poor cell service, dubious security, and excessive hotel and airport Wi-Fi fees can benefit from a good travel router when working away from home.

The best wireless travel routers avoid these hassles by letting you set up a private bubble of Wi-Fi anywhere you happen to land, whether in a conference center, hotel room, or airport lounge. 

Most people should buy the TP-Link TL-WR902AC  - it's small enough to chuck in a backpack and can even double as a Wi-Fi range extender. If you also want a cellular connection as backup, the Netgear Nighthawk M1 is for you, as it doubles as a mobile hotspot for your hotel room or car.

What to Look For in a Travel Router

Best overall, tp-link tl-wr902ac travel router.

 Amazon

Compact size is ideal for frequent travelers

Doubles as a Wi-Fi extender

Included cables are short

TP-Link's TL-WR902AC is one of the fastest travel routers we've seen, which is especially impressive at this size and price. Measuring 2.64 x 2.91 x 0.9 inches and weighing in at only 8 ounces, it's small enough to carry in a pocket, briefcase, or backpack, so you'll be ready to set up your own Wi-Fi bubble anywhere.

For such a small device, the TL-WR902AC offers impressive dual-band Wi-Fi performance. It's also really versatile since it can be not only be used as a router or access point to create a wireless network but also as a range extender, private Wi-Fi hotspot, or even as a bridge to connect a wired device to a Wi-Fi network by using its built-in Ethernet port in the opposite direction. 

A built-in USB port lets you share files and media from a removable USB storage device, and it can also provide up to 2A of passthrough power to charge your smartphone or tablet. The only real downside is that the port layout can be awkward since the USB and micro USB power ports are on the opposite side of the Ethernet port. 

Wireless Spec: 802.11ac | Security: WPA2 | Standard/Speed: AC750 | Bands: Dual-band | MU-MIMO: No | Beamforming: No | Wired Ports: 1

Best Splurge

Netgear nighthawk m1.

Great choice for heavy internet users

Supports up to 20 Wi-Fi devices at once

Long battery life

Doubles as a mobile hotspot

Very expensive

Can occasionally overheat

While it's not the most affordable option on our list, it's well worth the splurge if you need to get several devices onto the internet anywhere at blazing-fast speeds.

With support for up to 20 simultaneous devices, Netgear's Nighthawk MR1100 can quickly handle your whole family or project team, and unlike most travel routers on this list, the one works as a 4G LTE mobile hotspot too. This means you'll be able to connect to its Wi-Fi network and get online even when there's no other Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection. It's also the first mobile hotspot to support Gigabit LTE , with 4X4 MIMO and four-band Carrier Aggregation. Hence, it can provide internet speeds rivaling your home broadband connection.

It's not just about LTE, though—the MR1100 also works as a traditional portable router. Just plug a standard internet connection into the Ethernet port to share access to your Wi-Fi devices. A large 2.4-inch color LCD screen also ensures that you can keep track of the router's status and how much data you're using. The rechargeable battery can keep you going for up to 24 hours before you need to charge it, and in a pinch, you can also use some of that capacity to charge your smartphone or other mobile devices. 

Wireless Spec: 802.11ac / 4G LTE | Security: WPA2 | Standard/Speed: AC750 | Bands: Dual-band | MU-MIMO: No | Beamforming: No | Wired Ports: 1 

TP-Link TL-WR802N N300 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router

Fast single-band Wi-Fi performance

No USB port

Not the fastest internet speeds when connected to multiple devices

TP-Link’s TL-WR802N is an older single-band router that offers a surprisingly great range in its small package. While the single-band N300 rating won’t break any speed records, it still provides enough performance for lag-free 4K Netflix streaming and uninterrupted video conferences on Zoom. 

Like most travel routers, the TL-WR802N is designed for use by one or two users when you’re on the go, and the 300Mbps 802.11n speeds will likely be faster than the internet connection at most hotels and conference centers you find yourself in. This little pocket-sized router offers exceptional coverage, so you won’t need to worry about staying connected while roaming the boardroom. 

The N300 draws its power via a micro USB port that can connect directly to a wall charger or laptop, so you won’t have to worry about how to power it. It can also function as a repeater, Wi-Fi client, or extender for a public WISP hotspot. The only downside is that, unlike its dual-band sibling, the TL-WR902AC, it lacks a USB port, so you won’t be able to use it for sharing files. 

Wireless Spec: 802.11n | Security: WPA2 | Standard/Speed: N300 | Bands: Single-band | MU-MIMO: No | Beamforming: No | Wired Ports: 1

Best for Road Warriors

Gl.inet mudi gl-e750.

Works as a 4G LTE mobile hotspot

Open source

Excellent VPN support

No external antenna

The GL.iNet GL-E750 router is an excellent choice for road warriors who must stay connected securely and reliably anywhere they land.

With WireGuard encryption, support for multiple Open Source VPN protocols, and even Tor anonymous network routing, this router ensures that you can always have a secure and private connection to the internet if you're a relatively advanced user. Whether that's over your hotel's shared network or your carrier's LTE network, all your traffic will be encrypted, and you can even have an always-on tunnel back into your home or office network. 

It's not just for mobile LTE access, however; it's also a capable Wi-Fi access point, with dual-band 2.4GHz and 5GHz support with 733Mbps throughput across both bands, along with a built-in battery that offers up to eight hours of use and a USB port and microSD card slots that can be used for sharing files with your connected devices. Since it's designed to be used from anywhere, it also features a built-in rechargeable battery that promises up to eight hours of use on a single charge. 

Lifewire / Andy Zahn

Most of the routers on the market are big and bulky devices. If you're parking them in a corner at home, this is a manageable problem, but they're not suited for taking the road with you.

This has given rise to a whole new category of travel routers: devices that are specifically designed to be highly portable—often small enough to be carried in a pocket—and run from internal batteries or a simple USB-powered connection that lets you plug them into a laptop or portable battery pack to create your own personal Wi-Fi network. 

Most importantly, since public Wi-Fi hotspots are usually insecure, a good travel router can also offer additional peace of mind by providing a private, encrypted Wi-Fi network for your traffic, securing the connections not only between your devices and the router but also making sure the traffic leaving the router is also encrypted. 

This means that you can take them just about anywhere you happen to land, whether it's between your home and the office, to a coffee shop where you might want to have more secure Wi-Fi, or on the road with you to use in hotels, conference centers, and airport lounges.

Bandwidth and Performance

When shopping for a router for your home, you're looking for enough range to blanket your home with the strong Wi-Fi signal you need to support streaming and gaming from multiple devices. 

Travel routers are different. You may find that even an entry level router—one that offers 802.11n support at 150Mbps speeds—is more than enough.

Wireless Frequencies: Single-Band vs Dual-Band

Like other wireless routers, travel routers come in single or multi-band versions, which refers to their frequencies. A single-band router works only on the 2.4GHz frequency, while a dual-band router offers both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies on two separate bands. 

Security and Privacy

As a bare minimum, every modern wireless travel router should include support for the Wireless Protected Access 2 (WPA2) encryption standard. This is even more important in a travel router you'll use in more public spaces.

While this probably isn't such a big deal if all you want to do is stream movies from Netflix, if confidentiality is essential, we strongly recommend using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when connecting through a travel router. While you can do this directly from your devices, you'll probably find it even simpler to pick up a travel router with built-in VPN support so that your connection is automatically encrypted as soon as you plug it in.

Connectivity

Almost all travel routers offer the same connectivity as your home router—turning a wired connection into a Wi-Fi network. However, as more hotels offer guest Wi-Fi networks instead of Ethernet jacks, you'll probably find getting a travel router that can also connect to a public Wi-Fi network is more beneficial.

There's also a category of travel routers that can act as mobile hotspots to offer internet access for your mobile devices over an LTE cellular network.

Even though most hotels already offer free Wi-Fi, it’s often struggling under the load of many people using it, so having a travel router can provide better performance, especially if you can plug it into a wired connection in your room. Plus, most public Wi-Fi hotspots are completely insecure, allowing your traffic to be easily intercepted by anybody else on the same Wi-Fi network. Using a router plugged into ethernet will also often save you money as you won't have to pay for the usable 'premium' internet package.

The best travel routers offer industry-standard WPA2 encryption—the same type of security used by your home router—which means that all of your wireless traffic is safe from prying eyes. Public Wi-Fi hotspots are open networks that use no encryption at all but keep in mind that if you’re using a travel router as a wireless extender for a public Wi-Fi hotspot, your traffic will still be unencrypted between your travel router and the hotspot. For the best security, use a wired connection or a VPN wherever possible.

Even if you use your travel router in your hotel room, internet traffic still travels over the hotel’s network. While most sensitive sites and services like email and online banking use SSL encryption, this won’t prevent the hotel or other public hotspot provider from seeing where you’re going; they just won’t be able to know what you’re doing. If you want to ensure your connection is as private and secure as possible, we recommend using a travel router with built-in VPN support.

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The 7 Best Portable and Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspots for Travel in 2024

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

795 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

35 Published Articles 3254 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

What is a mobile wi-fi hotspot, things to look for in a mobile wi-fi hotspot, frequencies explained: the difference between gsm and cdma, the 7 best mobile wi-fi hotspots for travel, final thoughts.

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Whether you want to update your Insta on the go or need to keep in touch with the office, losing your internet signal can be very frustrating.

But it’s annoying (and can be unsafe) to rely on public Wi-Fi signals in every coffee shop you visit, and sometimes when traveling to remote locations, public connections are just not available.

Instead, you can invest in a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot to ensure safe, secure, and reliable internet access anywhere you go. Here’s what you need to consider when choosing the best one for you.

A Wi-Fi hotspot is a battery-powered wireless router that travels with you. Designed to be compact and lightweight enough to slip into your purse or pocket, a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot device brings the internet to your phone, tablet, or laptop, no matter where in the world it finds you.

These gadgets are a big bonus for anyone traveling away from public Wi-Fi or those looking for a secure connection. A bit like a cellular device, your Wi-Fi hotspot provides access to invisible signals in the sky, all of which can help you to upload pics or receive your emails on the move.

You will need to pay for the data you use, which can be done in the form of packages or day passes that offer unlimited access for a set period of time.

Bottom Line: Using 3G or 4G (and maybe even 5G in the coming months), these smart little devices emit a reliable and incredibly useful Wi-Fi signal that you can hook your favorite gadgets and devices to while away from home.

Battery Life

Most batteries will run happily for between 5-6 hours at a time. If you are traveling somewhere with easy access to electricity, you should be able to charge overnight to ensure your hotspot works when you need it for your daily adventures. If you spend a disproportionately large amount of time online, you may want to look at a device that offers a longer battery life.

Size and Weight

Your Wi-Fi hotspot should be small enough to be carried everywhere with you. After all, if it’s not entirely portable, what exactly is the point? Slimline, lightweight, and often smaller than the smartphone you are trying to connect to, these devices are compact and clever.

Wi-Fi Support

Because some mobile internet providers are better than others, the coverage you receive from any Wi-Fi hotspot can also vary. For example, 2.4GHz gives coverage at a more extended range but will transmit the data at a much slower speed. A 5GHz band, on the other hand, will provide less range with data transmitted at a much faster speed.

Though they may be small, they are still mighty, and most hotspot devices will have a built-in display. At the very least, the display should indicate remaining battery life and current Wi-Fi signal strength. Others may offer bonus features like SMS messages or touch screen modes.

Card Reader

Some portable Wi-Fi hotspots come with the capability to read MicroSD memory cards, which can be used to store and access files from your laptop or home computer. You can also share your stored files with the people who use your network when you want them to have access.

MicroSD memory cards are not typically included with the purchase of a Wi-Fi hotspot, but they are a useful addition that allows you to send and receive SMS messages and save images, music, and other data-heavy files.

Mobile data is delivered using 1 of 2 types of cellular signals in different countries and regions around the world. These cellular standards allow for communication between individuals; without them, we would not be able to keep in touch on such a global scale.

Known as GSM and CDMA, each standard converts both incoming and outgoing radio waves in entirely different ways. Before you buy a hotspot, you need to understand its function and where you’ll be able to use it.

Global System for Mobile Communication is used in most countries around the world. In the U.S., only AT&T and T-Mobile use GSM. GSM uses Time Division Multiple Access (or TDMA), which allocates time slots to multiple conversation streams and alters how phones transmit their information. Doing this requires a SIM card (or “subscriber identification module” card).

It is the SIM card that holds all the information you need to make calls, use mobile internet, and store your contacts. The SIM card tells the device what services you have access to and is vital for GSM communications on the go.

CDMA is used in countries including Russia and the U.S. ( Sprint , Verizon , and US Cellular), and it grants users full access to a wide spectrum of bandwidth, meaning more users can connect at any one time. It also encodes each signal, meaning that every conversation remains protected and filtered.

CDMA does not rely on SIM cards as the device has the technology built into it from the carriers’ networks. This once meant that if you wanted to change carriers, you would need to buy a new device altogether. These days though, many CDMA devices offer the capability to use a SIM card too, especially for those on LTE networks.

Bottom Line: Different countries (and different carriers) use different technologies. In the U.S., Sprint, Verizon, and US Cellular use CDMA, while AT&T and T-Mobile use GSM. When it comes to purchasing a hotspot, make sure you understand what type you’re buying, what countries it will work in, and what providers it will function with.

1. Keep in Touch Wherever You Are Using the GlocalMe 4G LTE Network

GlocalMe DuoTurbo 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot

With a global SIM-free connection, you can quickly and easily access the internet without worrying about a local SIM card or roaming charges. The 4G LTE high-speed network connects up to 10 devices at a time. Enjoy an innovative GlocalMe app that uses a dedicated security protocol to ensure your Wi-Fi connection is always safe.

You can also easily manage your data usage from anywhere in the world. With an initial 1.1 GB of global data and 8 GB U.S. data included to see you on your way, you can easily top up your data using the GlocalMe app, which is specifically designed to work in a variety of different countries and regions.

Bottom Line: With 1 Nano SIM card slot and the ability to connect to unlocked Wi-Fi hotspots wherever you are, the G4 will provide you with up to 12 hours of nonstop usage from a single charge.

2. Rapid Download Speeds and Superfast Internet on the Go

Huawei E5577Cs-321 4G LTE Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot

Huawei’s Wi-FI hotspot is both affordable and reliable — and it’s good enough to give some of the more prominent brand alternatives a real run for their money.

This hotspot offers rapid download speeds of up to 150 Mbps 4G LTE and 43.2 Mbps 3G download , connection for up to 10 Wi-Fi enabled devices, 6 hours of working time, and a whopping 300 hours of standby time.

Bottom Line: The TFT-LCD screen with 2D Barcode secure connection is easy to use, and the device itself is unlocked for all networks — you can even choose your SIM card if you want to.

3. Best for Professionals Who Need To Keep Connected

Huawei  E5576-320  4G LTE Mobile Wi-Fi Router

This high-speed mobile router and multi-mode wireless terminal is for use in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

The hotspot offers 16 Wi-Fi connections at a time, and the unlocked carrier connection means you can use 3G signals from any provider. Controllable via the innovative Huawei Mobile Wi-Fi app, you can enjoy uploads and connectivity for up to 6 hours using the 1500 mAh battery.

Bottom Line: While this device model will not work in the Americas or the United States, it is an affordable solution for those traveling to other parts of the world.

4. A Powerful Global WI-Fi Hotspot for Use in Over 160 Countries

RoamWiFi 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot Router

The RoamWiFi Mobile Router is a powerful global Wi-Fi hotspot with super-fast 4G LTE speeds that can be used in over 160 different countries and shared to 5 connections. Sleek and stylish, the simple orange hotspot can be stored in your carry-on luggage and will be easy to find when you get there.

By far, the most impressive feature of this particular model is the whopping 18 hours of battery life . 500MB of data can be purchased for as little as $2.90 per day.

Bottom Line: All-in-all, this is a tremendous little Wi-Fi hotspot for your next adventure.

5. Compact and Capable Offering 18 Hours of Battery Life

Netgear Unite Explore AC815S Mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot

This slim 4G LTE-capable device provides super-fast internet and as much as 18 hours of battery life on a single charge to as many as 15 Wi-Fi devices on the go.

Super easy to use, the color LCD screen shows you all the network info you need, as well as displaying battery life and connectivity levels.

Bottom Line: Made by one of the most trusted names in communications, the Unite Explore is a reliable Wi-Fi hotspot for travelers looking for longer battery life.

6. Superfast Connectivity in Over 135 Countries

SIMO Solis Lite 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot

With no contract or SIM card required, this convenient little device will ensure you’re always connected on the go. The virtual SIM technology is compatible with most major carriers, and you can control everything through the handy Solis WiFi app.

You can connect up to 10 different devices with up to 16 hours of battery life on a single charge. As well as keeping you connected, this mobile hotspot doubles up as a power bank, so you’ll never run out of charge.

Bottom Line: With SIMO Solis, users can enjoy day pass Wi-Fi, pay as you go access by gigabyte, or monthly and yearly subscriptions.

7. Connect 10 Wi-Fi Enabled Devices With This Verizon Jetpack

Verizon MiFi Jetpack 4620L

Brought to you by the communication experts at Verizon, this MiFi Jetpack offers superior connectivity and speedy internet access virtually anywhere in the world. With the ability to connect up to 10 Wi-Fi-enabled devices in 4G and up to 5 devices in 3G, this is one of the most effective LTE hotspot devices on the market.

Compatible with all major operating systems including Windows, Mac OSX, Android, and iOS, you can quickly and easily connect your phone, tablet, or laptop. The interactive OLED display shows you when you are connected, as well as the connection status and how many users are connected. It can even alert you when you receive a new SMS message.

Bottom Line: With up to 5 hours of usage available from a single charge, this impressive MiFi mobile Wi-Fi device is one of the most effective LTE hotspot devices on the market.

With a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, you are no longer at the mercy of unsecured, cumbersome, and often super-slow public Wi-Fi signals when you take to the road. Your very own Wi-Fi allows you to download data, upload images, and keep in touch with civilization, no matter how far away you go.

Before you commit to a connection, look for a mobile Wi-Fi device that is compact and portable with a large enough battery to last you all day. Your new Wi-Fi hotspot should also be simple to use, easy to connect to, and ideally able to offer a connection to several different devices (especially if you’re traveling with friends).

Lastly, don’t miss these other tech-related product reviews to level up your travel game!

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• The Best Portable Power Bank Chargers for Travel
• Travel Product Reviews – Tech & Photography Focus

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best mobile wi-fi hotspot for travelers.

Our vote is for the GlocalMe G4 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot.

With a global SIM-free connection, you can quickly and easily access the internet without worrying about a local SIM card or roaming charges. The 4G LTE high-speed network connects up to 10 devices at a time. Enjoy 50Mbps upload speeds and an innovative GlocalMe app that uses a dedicated security protocol to ensure your Wi-Fi connection is always safe.

Do mobile hotspots work internationally?

Many mobile hotspots do work internationally, but this would depend on what plan your device is on. Many plans include a set amount of international data, while others offer unlimited usage for a set fee.

Can mobile hotspot replace home Wi-Fi?

Although mobile hotspots can be used in place of home Wi-Fi, it usually carries higher usage costs. If you are a heavy downloader or video streamer, you would likely be better off registering for a home Wi-Fi service.

Which is better Wi-Fi or hotspot?

Hotspots usually offer slower speeds and less security than Wi-Fi; however, it is convenient if you’re on the move, and there are no guarantees that you will be able to access a Wi-Fi connection.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The Great Outdoors

The 8 best unlocked portable Wi-Fi hotspots for travelers and digital nomads

An unlocked portable Wi-Fi hotspot is a must for travelers, digital nomads, or backpackers. Here are our top picks for portability, speed, and network coverage.

As a digital nomad you’re either strapping up your hiking boots to hit the local trails, or flying to Mexico for a week of margaritas and sunshine. And with remote work becoming more common, a life spent hopping between countries is finally within reach for many of us. But life on the road, or in the woods, lacks one necessary modern convenience: an internet connection.

Fortunately, portable Wi-Fi hotspots are the perfect solution for travelers and digital nomads to stay connected. These compact devices provide a high-speed connection wherever you go, so you can get your work done (and pay the bills) while exploring new locales or camping beneath towering evergreens.

How do mobile Wi-Fi hotspots work?

A portable Wi-Fi hotspot is a pocketable device that uses a cellular signal to create your own Wi-Fi network. These hotspots typically output both 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi connections, and connect to the internet through mobile networks that transmit cellular data through radio waves, called frequencies. This means that you can connect your laptop , tablet, or smartphone to the internet even if there is no public Wi-Fi available. Portable Wi-Fi hotspots are sometimes also called "Mi-Fi" devices.

Features to look for in a Wi-Fi hotspot

Prepaid data packages vs. SIM card

To get your portable Wi-Fi device connected to the internet, you will need to purchase a prepaid data plan or local SIM card. If you plan to use your Wi-Fi hotspot for international travel, look for a device that has prepaid data plans available. Purchasing a prepaid plan prior to leaving on a trip means you can skip the hassle of locating a foreign service provider and picking up a SIM card.

If you're planning on using your hotspot primarily in the U.S. and North America, purchasing a SIM card from a major carrier like AT&T or T-Mobile will get you the best network coverage. I recommend this option for campers , hikers , or van-lifers that require an internet connection in remote locations.

Supported networks and frequencies

The frequencies used to transmit data vary depending on the region or country you're in and the carrier you're on. You need to keep an eye out for which frequencies your hotspot will support.

The most common networks and their frequencies include:

• 2G/3G : The second- and third-generation of wireless technology. These networks run on either GSM (Global System for Mobiles) or CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) frequencies. GSM is more widely used and better for travelers.
• 4G or LTE : This network is currently the global standard and offers the fastest connection speeds. 4G transmits through LTE frequencies, and only uses GSM or CDMA as a fallback when there is no LTE connection available.
• 5G: The fifth-generation mobile network technology provides increased reliability, speed, and network capacity, but global coverage is currently only at 25 percent . Outside of major cities, 4G LTE and 3G networks are the most widely available.

Luckily, device makers don’t want to build a different device for every frequency, so most Wi-Fi hotspots are compatible with 2G, 3G, and 4G LTE. Keep in mind that your hotspot will only work in areas where there is cellular coverage , no matter the frequency. Oftentimes, remote locations will not have a signal since there aren't any nearby cellular towers or the closest one can't reach it.

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Reliable hotspot built for traveling, with 18-hour battery life and 450Mbps download speeds.

The NETGEAR Unite Explore AC815S is a fast and reliable hotspot with 18 hours of battery life. This device provides download speeds up to 450Mbps. The device is compatible with GSM SIM cards, so you can use it with your preferred service provider. Bonus points go to the Unite Explore for its durable design with rubber bumpers and splash resistance.

Provides SIM-free global coverage and allows you to connect up to five devices.

The MightyWiFi is a SIM-free hotspot that supports 29 frequencies on the 4G network which provides you with coverage in over 150 countries. This hotspot has flexible global data plans that are prepaid, ranging from 3GB to 30GB. The 5,000 mAh battery also doubles as a portable power bank with up to 12 hours of usage. The MightyWiFi supports up to five devices at once.

Powerful, pocket-sized and supports most international SIM cards.

The GlocalMe G4 is a powerful pocket-sized hotspot with up to 12 hours of battery life, built-in data plans, and support for SIM cards from over 140 countries. With a 5-inch touchscreen display for easy setup and configuration, and built-in apps like Google Maps, this little device is a fuss-free companion.

A durable spill-resistant hotspot that can be easily connected via NFC. Best in class battery life.

The Huawei E5885 Wifi 2 has lightning fast 300Mbps download speeds and is compatible with 4G LTE bands in Europe, North America, and Asia. A built-in 6,400 mAh battery pack provides 25 hours of battery life and a 2-in-1 lanyard charging cable that can easily keep both the hotspot or your phone powered up. Setup is made simple thanks to single-tap NFC connectivity. Plus, it's dust and spill-resistant, so it’s a great fit for more rugged adventures.

A mobile hotspot that is both fast and reliable, with a built-in 5,000 mAh battery.

The Netgear Nighthawk M1 is an unlocked 4G mobile hotspot that's fast and reliable. It comes with a built-in 5,000 mAh battery capable of providing 11 hours worth of power while you're out hiking or traveling. This compact device has a USB port for media streaming from an external drive or for charging your phone in a pinch. Compatible with SIM cards from most major service providers, but also supports prepaid data plans from AT&T and T-Mobile.

A GSM unlocked hotspot that supports both 4G and 5G networks.

The ZTE Velocity MF923 is a GSM unlocked hotspot that supports up to 10 devices at once. It comes with a 2,800 mAh battery that provides 10 hours of battery life, and you can insert a microSD to use as a shared network drive. The Velocity also has a bright and responsive 2.4-inch touchscreen display, which makes it easy to set up your device within minutes. This device connects to both 4G and 5G networks in 200 countries.

Budget hotspot that supports 4G LTE speeds and works with a micro-SIM from any GSM carrier.

Alcatel’s LINKZONE is a simple budget hotspot capable of providing 4G LTE speeds up to 150Mbps. The LINKZONE works with a SIM card from any GSM carrier and supports up to 15 devices at once. You’ll get six hours of juice out of the 1,800 mAh battery, and setup is a breeze thanks to the user-friendly interface. This hotspot is ideal for travelers heading to Central or South America since it is compatible with 4G networks that transmit through 1,700-2,100 Mhz frequencies.

Affordable option that provides 6 hours of battery life and fast download speeds.

The Huawei E5577Cs hotspot costs less than $100. It has a 1,500 mAh battery that lasts for six hours on average and supports all GSM networks. Download speeds reach up to 150Mbps. This hotspot can also be used as a Wi-Fi extender at home, making it useful even when you’re not traveling. On top of that, with the LCD touchscreen, you can view available networks, battery life, and easily tinker with other settings.

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Airport WiFi Guide

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Airports are bustling transportation hubs, but they can also be places where you find yourself with time to spare. Whether you're waiting for your flight or dealing with a layover, having access to the internet can be a valuable way to stay connected, entertained, or productive. In this guide, we'll discuss the two main options for connecting to WiFi at airports : free public networks and premium lounge access. We'll also walk you through the steps to connect your laptop or mobile phone to these networks and provide tips for staying safe online while at the airport.

Free Airport WiFi: A Convenient Option for All Travelers

Most airports around the world provide free public WiFi to help travelers stay connected during their time at the airport. This service is typically available throughout the airport's main areas, such as terminals, waiting areas, and food courts. While free public WiFi can be convenient, it's essential to be aware of the potential security risks and take necessary precautions to protect your personal information.

Premium Lounge WiFi: A More Exclusive and Comfortable Option

Airline and premium lounges offer an exclusive space for travelers seeking a more comfortable and relaxed environment while waiting for their flights. These lounges often provide complimentary, high-speed WiFi access as part of their amenities, which may offer a more secure and reliable connection compared to public airport networks.

To access a premium lounge, you may need to hold a specific airline status, be a member of a lounge program, or purchase a day pass. In addition to WiFi, these lounges typically offer complimentary refreshments, comfortable seating, and other amenities, such as charging stations and business facilities.

Learn more about precautions you should take when using airport WiFi networks below.

Staying Safe While Connecting to Airport WiFi Networks

Whether connecting to free public WiFi or the WiFi offered in premium lounges, it's crucial to take steps to protect your privacy and security online:

• Use a VPN: Always use a virtual private network (VPN) service when connecting to public networks or even premium lounge WiFi. A VPN encrypts your data and masks your IP address, making it more difficult for cybercriminals to access your information or track your online activities. Choose a reputable VPN service with strong encryption and a no-logging policy.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Add an extra layer of security to your online accounts by enabling 2FA whenever possible. This requires an additional form of verification (such as a code sent to your mobile device) when logging in to your accounts, making it more challenging for unauthorized users to gain access.
• Avoid sensitive transactions: Refrain from conducting sensitive transactions, such as online banking or shopping, when connected to public WiFi networks or even in premium lounges. These activities should be reserved for secure, private connections to minimize the risk of exposing your personal information.
• Keep software up-to-date: Regularly update your device's operating system, applications, and security software to ensure you're protected against known vulnerabilities.
• Be cautious of phishing attempts: Cybercriminals may use airport WiFi networks or lounge access to launch phishing attacks, so be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unfamiliar sources. Double-check the sender's email address and the URL of any website you visit to make sure they're legitimate.

Learn how to connect to an airport WiFi network below. 

Connecting to Airport WiFi Networks

Now that you understand the options for accessing WiFi at airports and the necessary precautions to take, here's a step-by-step guide on how to connect your laptop or mobile phone to these networks:

Step 1: Enable WiFi on your device

• Ensure your laptop's WiFi is turned on. This can usually be found as a physical switch on the side of the device or as a function key (Fn) on the keyboard.
• Click on the network icon located on the taskbar (Windows) or menu bar (macOS) to open the list of available networks.

Mobile phone:

• Access the settings menu on your device.
• Navigate to the WiFi settings and ensure it is turned on.

Step 2: Locate the airport's WiFi network or premium lounge network

• Scan the list of available networks on your device.
• Look for the network with the airport's name or abbreviation, often accompanied by "Free WiFi" or "Public WiFi." If you're in a premium lounge, search for the specific lounge's network name, which is usually displayed within the lounge.

Step 3: Connect to the network

• Select the desired WiFi network (public airport network or lounge network) from the list.
• If prompted, accept any terms and conditions and provide any requested information (such as your email address) to gain access to the network.

Navigating airport WiFi options, such as free public networks and premium lounge access, can enhance your travel experience by providing a convenient way to stay connected. By following the steps outlined in this guide and taking the necessary safety precautions, you can make the most of your time at the airport without compromising your online security. Remember to use a VPN service, enable 2FA, and exercise caution when browsing on public networks or in lounges to keep your personal information safe. With the right approach, you can enjoy a seamless and secure online experience during your airport stay.

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The Best Ways to Gain Airport Lounge Access

By Suzanne Rowan Kelleher , Jessica Puckett , and Blane Bachelor

There’s no denying it: Being in an airport terminal is draining. The crowds, the often subpar food options, and the lack of adequate seating make for a tedious and uncomfortable experience.

But fortunately, most airports have lounges, where travelers can ease these woes with complimentary craft cocktails, comfy armchairs, and buffets of gourmet food. In some of the more modern spaces, there are even tranquility areas for meditating or napping, cycling and yoga rooms, and shower suites for freshening up.

There are more ways than ever to access these sanctuaries amid the airport bedlam, but each tactic is becoming more expensive and competitive as airlines and credit card companies try to solve overcrowding issues across their lounge networks.

The most infamous example is probably the recent changes Delta made to lounge access rules as part of a larger redesign of its loyalty program. To the chagrin of fliers, the airline is capping the annual number of visits credit cardholders can have to its Sky Clubs in 2025. (It’s not clear yet how many visits each credit cardholder will be allotted per year—Delta is tweaking the numbers after severe backlash from customers.) Additionally, any passenger flying in basic economy won’t be allowed in the lounges beginning in 2024.

Suffice it to say that the lounge game is getting more cutthroat. But even with ever-growing restrictions, you should be able to find a way to score a coveted spot in one of these peaceful havens—as long as you plan ahead. Here are some useful strategies for accessing airport lounges around the world, no matter where you’re flying next.

• Fly in a premium cabin

Premium credit cards

• Priority Pass memberships
• Annual passes

Fly in premium cabins

The most obvious way to gain entry into an airline lounge is to buy a ticket in a premium cabin. Some airlines reserve spaces aside for business class or first class passengers only (and occasionally travelers in the upper echelons of their loyalty schemes), ensuring these lounges still feel exclusive and not overcrowded.

United Polaris lounges, for instance, only allow fliers with tickets in its long-haul business class cabin to enter the rarefied spaces, which are at six US airports and are some of the slickest lounges around. Other ultra-exclusive lounges include British Airways’ Concorde Room, Air France’s La Premiere, Cathay Pacific’s The Pier, which all limit access to first-class passengers or the very top-tier status members.

But you don’t necessarily need to splash out on the most expensive seats to enjoy a lounge: A growing number of airlines are offering access to passengers in their premium economy cabins . The perk helps further distinguish this popular fare class from the regular economy class. Scandinavian Airlines, All Nippon Airways, Japan Airlines , and LATAM all bestow complimentary lounge access to premium economy passengers across their networks of lounges. Be sure to check with your airline that you’ll have lounge access on your route before you book a premium economy ticket, as some carriers limit premium economy passengers to specific locations.

Holding the right travel credit card is a savvy way of ensuring you’ll have entry to a wide scope of airport lounges. Lounge access is now a standard—and beloved—perk on most premium reward cards, so much so that a growing number of credit card companies are launching their own concepts to entice cardmembers.

One of the best credit card options to secure airport lounge access is The Platinum Card from American Express (which carries a $695 annual fee, see rates and fee details ). This card will grant you complimentary access to the coveted Centurion Lounges, which are something of a gold standard. These high-end spaces offer travelers a glamorous respite from chaotic terminals, with many offering amenities like shower suites, spas, and tranquility areas for relaxing or napping.

There are currently 13 of these swanky lounges in the US and 14 locations in airports abroad, though the network is rapidly expanding, with new Centurions slated to open in busy hubs like Atlanta and Washington, DC (DCA), in coming months. AmEx also recently announced that a Centurion location will be opening in New Jersey’s Newark Airport Terminal A in 2026, complete with a jazz-era cocktail bar and a piano lounge with live music.

Centurion loyalists love the spaces for their focus on an upscale atmosphere and delectable food and craft cocktails that are inspired by the local cuisine. In fact, there are so many fans of the lounges that overcrowding has been a problem. To rectify the issue, AmEx tightened up the guest policy in Centurion lounges back in February 2023: Guests are now charged $50 per visit (kids two and under are $30, with proof of age); previously, cardholders were allowed to bring in two friends or family members for free. The only way to avoid those guest fees is to spend at least $75,000 on your card annually.

Platinum cardholders also have access to Delta Sky Clubs and thousands of other airport lounges through Priority Pass Select (enrollment required, terms apply). Additionally, the Platinum card comes with a raft of generous travel credits, including a $200 Uber credit (enrollment required, terms apply) and TSA PreCheck or Global Entry membership credit.

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The bar inside London Heathrow's Centurion Lounge.

Another solid credit card option for lounge access is the Chase Sapphire Reserve. Chase has been launching its own network of lounges called Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club. So far, two of the spaces have debuted in Hong Kong and Boston. Similar to Centurions’ spaces, Chase’s lounges feature perks like specialty cocktail bars, local cuisine like dim sum, and “relaxation areas” for lounging. Six more locations are set to open soon at the Las Vegas airport, New York-LaGuardia, Philadelphia, Phoenix, San Diego, and Washington-Dulles.

Aside from Sapphire Reserve cardholders, travelers with the J.P. Morgan Reserve card and The Ritz-Carlton Credit Card can also access the lounges. Priority Pass members get one free visit per year. Travelers with the Sapphire Reserve and J.P. Morgan Reserve cards can bring up to two guests for free, while those with the Ritz-Carlton Credit Card are allowed unlimited complimentary guests. No matter which card you have, make sure to activate your card’s complimentary Priority Pass membership in order to access the lounges.

Capital One has also been busy rolling out its own lounge products across airports. Starting in 2021, the company launched Capital One Lounge network, debuting the first location at Dallas Fort Worth. Most recently, a new location opened at Washington Dulles International Airport in September 2023. (A new Capital One Lounge at Denver International Airport is expected to open soon, but no date is available as of yet.)

Capital One says it designed the spaces to be a “modern airport oasis,” featuring luxe amenities like cycling and yoga rooms, shower suites, and a relaxation room. On the culinary side of things, there’s a focus on health-conscious cuisine that can be enjoyed on-site or taken to-go.

Access to the sleek spaces is complimentary for Capital One Venture X Rewards cardholders and up to two guests; Venture Rewards and Spark Miles for Business cardholders, meanwhile, receive a range of special entry offers.

Aside from its main lounge product, Capital One is also launching an additional culinary-focused concept called Capital One Landing. Through a partnership with celebrity chef José Andrés , the lounges will offer “top-notch food for travelers,” according to a release. Locations of the gourmet spaces are planned for LaGuardia’s Terminal B and Washington, DC’s Reagan National Airport. Specific lounge access details and entry fees will be released closer to the opening dates (which are also not yet released); however, travelers with certain Capital One cards, like the Venture Card , will be eligible for special entry rates.

And don’t forget about airline credit cards, too. They’re another sure way to score a spot in some exclusive lounges. The Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card , which has an annual fee of $550 per year ( see rates and fees ), has similar benefits to the Platinum card, plus complimentary access to Centurion Lounges and Delta Sky Clubs (though it doesn’t offer Priority Pass membership). However, keep in mind the changes to lounge access Delta has been making recently; more on that below.

The Citi AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard, which comes with a $595 annual fee, bestows complimentary American Airlines Admirals Club access to the cardholder, their immediate family, or two guests.

Several other premium credit cards, including the Citi Prestige and the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express cards (both have an annual fee: $495 and $650, respectively), come with a complimentary Priority Pass Select membership.

Buy a Priority Pass membership

If a premium travel card isn’t an option, consider buying a lounge membership directly with Priority Pass , which opens the door to more than 1,400 airport lounges worldwide that you can access through Priority Pass's mobile app. In the US, most participating lounges are independently operated. A handful of top business class airline lounges participate at select airports. Airlines with Priority Pass–accessible lounges in US airports include Korean Air, Air France, Lufthansa , Turkish Airlines, and British Airways.

There are three tiers of membership, and at the entry level (Priority Pass Standard) you’ll pay a $99 annual membership and then $35 per lounge visit (members can also bring a guest for $35). If you visit 10 or more lounges per year, then your sweet spot is Priority Pass Standard Plus, which has a $329 annual membership fee that includes 10 free lounge visits—translating to about $33 a pop. Beyond 10 visits, you pay $35 for each visit and $35 per guest, too. The top tier is Priority Pass Prestige, with a $469 annual fee that gets you unlimited lounge visits per year (but you’ll need to pay $35 for guest passes). This becomes a better deal than Standard Plus when you hit 14 or more lounge visits in one year.

One caveat: When lounges get very crowded, Priority Pass members can be turned away—which is a more common occurrence these days.

If you don’t have the right credit card or a Priority Pass and you’re not flying in a premium cabin, you may still be able to buy your way into a nice lounge. Nearly every large airport has spaces offering day passes that any traveler can purchase for a single visit.

Escape Lounges are a good example: They have a network of 23 lounges across the US and UK and offer day passes that cost $40 when booked 24 hours in advance, or $45 at the door. Entry fees cover food selections like Thai shrimp salad or braised short ribs with polenta, plus local craft brews, wine, and handcrafted cocktails. Expect plenty of seating and free Wi-Fi, too. AmEx Platinum and Centurion cardholders also get free entry to Escape Lounges (plus two guests), while AmEx Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card members get free access.

Another reliable option is Minute Suites , which offers small private rooms ideal for napping or working. Individual rooms are rented in 15-minute increments (with a one-hour minimum) and include a daybed, workstation, and television—in some locations, you can pay extra for a shower. Prices start at $48 for the first hour.

Some airlines also offer the opportunity to purchase day passes to some of their clubs, depending on capacity. Both United Club and Alaska Lounge accept walk-ins for day passes, as does American Airlines' Admirals Club. You must be flying with each respective airline or a carrier in their alliance—like Oneworld or Star Alliance—to buy access to their lounges. Prices generally range from $50 to $80. Many airlines are limiting the sale of lounge day passes due to overcrowding: Alaska no longer offers them at its Seattle or Anchorage hubs, and Delta discontinued the ability to purchase general day passes at its Sky Clubs several years ago. If you try to show up and buy one at the door, you could be denied if the space is filling up. Purchasing a day pass in advance of travel, rather than at the door, is highly recommended. That way your spot is secure when you land. Having that guarantee in the current travel landscape, where overcrowding is still a problem in many lounges, will provide added peace of mind when you show up at the airport.

Apps like LoungeBuddy sell advance day passes to lounges of all stripes—and also help to track whether you're eligible for entry based on factors like your airline or travel credit cards in your wallet. (In fact, a credit card is now one requirement to use LoungeBuddy's service: Since it was sold to American Express in 2019, you must be an AmEx cardholder to book through the site.)

Annual airline lounge passes

Let’s say you fly regularly on short-haul flights that don’t accrue a ton of miles. Or maybe you’ve racked up a lot of miles on Southwest or JetBlue, airlines that don’t have their own lounges. A branded airline pass provides access to the lounges of that carrier and its partners, regardless of which airline you’re flying on any given day. So you could, for instance, fly JetBlue but use American’s Admirals Club.

Be aware that airlines are continually making these memberships more expensive as they try to clamp down on the rampant overcrowding problems across most airport lounges. Average current rates range from $500 to $850 per year for an individual membership, depending on the airline and whether you have elite status. (The higher your status, the cheaper the membership becomes—Delta limits the ability to purchase memberships to Diamond, Platinum, Gold and Silver Medallion elite status fliers.)

Air Canada, Air New Zealand, Alaska Airlines, American, Delta, Hawaiian Airlines, Qantas, and United all offer options to buy annual lounge memberships.

Whether or not such membership programs end up being a deal depends on your personal circumstances and how much you fly—you’ll have to crunch the numbers and assess accordingly. As an example, an annual pass with unlimited access to Alaska lounges (as well as partner airlines) costs $500. Since a day pass costs $60, you break even when you visit an Alaska lounge or partner lounge at least eight times per year.

See rates and fees for the American Express cards listed: Delta SkyMiles Reserve ; the Platinum Card ; the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express

This story has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

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• Moscow Vnukovo Airport Guide

Whether you have a layover, overnight sleepover or you are just quickly passing through, our Moscow Vnukovo Airport Guide is a great place to start planning your visit.  Here, you’ll find information on services and facilities available inside the airport – including details about airport lounges, WiFi, mobile charging points, lockers, 24-hour food options, nearby hotels, and everything in between.

• Airport Lounges

• Airport Hotels

Airport WiFi

Luggage Storage

Mobile Charging

It was must say nicer than camping out at Domodedovo or for that matter Heathrow. – surejb

VKO Airport Overview

To help you plan your layover, here is a quick run-down of what travellers have reported to us during their time at Moscow Vnukovo Airport.

What to Expect

• Moscow Vnukovo Airport (code: VKO) is the smallest of Moscow’s three main airports, and the third busiest in Russia.
• This medium-sized airport is divided into two terminals. The main terminal – Terminal A – is used for domestic and international flights. Terminal D currently houses arriving flights mostly from North Caucasus.
• All main announcements (delays, boarding, final calls and so on) are made in Russian and English. Like everywhere in Russia only a few of the staff members speak English. Anticipate language barriers.
• WiFi is available. See WiFi information in the airport guide below.
• Economy class travelers can buy a pass and relax in one airport lounge. See Airport Lounges in the guide below for locations and rates.

Sleeping in Vnukovo Airport

• All benches in Terminal A have armrests, so they are not comfortable for sleeping. But some extremely tired and desperate passengers will push two benches together to create a makeshift bed.
• Airport staff are generally tolerant of the sleeping travellers – perhaps until the airport starts to become crowded.
• Almost all benches located landside have metal seats, ones that are found airside have soft padding.
• Some people rent a film in the mini-cinema to have a comfortable place to relax. See More Services in the airport guide below.
• There are no dedicated sleeping areas at Vnukovo airport, but there is a dark section without windows in the international departures area between gates 28/28A and 29/29A.
• For uninterrupted sleep, there are several hotels located near the airport. See the Airport Hotels section below for locations or read some traveller airport reviews for more tips.

To help us keep this guide up-to-date, you can add or update information or write a review to submit airport tips and photos.  For more airport information continue scrolling down to explore more in our Vnukovo Airport Guide.

In this guide we may refer to locations as “landside” and “airside”. Landside is the public area of the terminal located in the non-secure zone, before security. Airside is the secure area of the terminal that you must reach by going through security.  For more information on Europe’s Schengen Area, click here .

Airport Hours

The airport is open 24 hours.

If sleeping in the airport sounds like a nightmare, there are hotels at Moscow Vnukovo Airport including sleep capsules inside terminal A:

Hotel inside Vnukovo Airport

• Aerosleep Capsule Hotel – Capsules include a bed, storage, WiFi, a smart TV and power outlets for mobile charging.  Location: Terminal A, 3rd Floor.  » Read Tripadvisor Reviews

Hotels near the airport

• Doubletree by Hilton Moscow Vnukovo – Connected to the terminal by an underground tunnel. » Check Rates
• Four Points by Sheraton Moscow Vnukovo Airport – Scheduled to open in June 2023.  This hotel will be within walking distance of the airport terminal.  » Check Rates

For more options, visit Tripadvisor to see a list of hotels near Vnukovo Airport that can be sorted by price, distance, traveller rating and popularity.

Pay-per-use, Single Visit Passes & Lounge Memberships

Regardless of what class of service you are flying, there are lounges that you can enter by paying at the door, purchasing a lounge pass or through a lounge membership program. Visit the individual lounge page for more details about the lounge itself and to also find out how you can gain lounge access with just an economy class ticket!

• Art Lounge – Location: Terminal A, Airside, 2nd Floor, near Gate 23.  International and in-transit flights only.  Hours: open 24 hours.  Lounge Access: Prepaid lounge pass • Lounge membership programs.
• Fountain Lounge – Location: Terminal A, Airside, 2nd Floor, food court area. Lounge Access: Lounge membership programs.
• Prokofiev Premier Lounge – Location: Terminal A, 2nd Floor, near Gate 13. Showers are available.  Lounge Access: Prepaid lounge pass • Lounge membership programs.
• Top Lounge – Location: Terminal A, Airside, 3rd Floor, near Gate 21. Hours: open 24 hours. Lounge Access: Lounge membership programs.
• Tchaikovskiy Lounge – Location: Terminal A, International Airside, 2nd Floor. Showers are available. Hours: open 24 hours. Lounge Access: Pay at the Door • Prepaid lounge pass • Lounge membership programs.
• Rakhmaninov Lounge – Location: Terminal A, Domestic Airside between gates 11/11A and 12/12A. Showers are available. Hours: open 24 hours. Lounge Access: Pay at the Door • Lounge membership programs.
• Business Lounge International and Domestic – Location: Terminal A, Landside, 3rd Floor. Hours: open 24 hours. Lounge Access: Pay at the Door • Prepaid lounge pass • Lounge membership programs.

Related Pages: Vnukovo Airport Lounges

Drinking Water

Information is unavailable. Does the airport have water fountains or water bottle refill stations? Click here to update this guide .

Food & Drinks

Vnukovo has a variety local and international food concessions throughout the airport.  Unfortunately, we do not know if 24-hour options are available.  If you know, click here to update the guide .

Luggage Storage & Lockers

A luggage storage room is located in Terminal A, underground level. Rate: 500 RUB/day for standard luggage or 800 RUB/ day for overweight luggage (over 30kg).

In January 2019, a reader sent us this update: “Chargers are available in some places of airports. Either just walk around food court and look on the bottom of walls (some of them do not work) or there is charger in IUIU restaurant. USB sockets next to gate 23 with blue sign Turkish airlines.”

Rest & Relaxation Zones

There are no dedicated sleeping areas, quiet areas or rest zones. If this information has changed, click here to update this guide .

WiFi/Internet

Free WiFi is available at Moscow Vnukovo Airport in Terminal A for 15 minutes. Device authentication is required via SMS which costs around 50 ₽ (depending on the operator). After the free 15 minutes, you will be asked to pay asked to pay 129 rubles for 24 hours. Free WiFi is available at the airport lounges. Additionally there is an Internet Cafe located in Terminal A on the 2nd floor on the right.

More Airport Information

ATMs / Cash Machines – Need cash? ATMs are available. Fees may apply, so be sure to check your bank’s fee schedule and your daily withdrawal limit if you are travelling internationally. You may also want to notify your bank of your travel plans. Locations: Terminal A, Landside. There are no ATMs airside.

Family Services – Travelling with small children?  Here are a few services that may be of interest to you:

• Children’s Playroom – Location: Terminal A, landside, 2nd floor on the left. No fees, no medical certificate is required, flight ticket is required. Only one parent can accompany in the playroom due to limited space inside, but the other can wait in a kind of a lounge just near the room.
• Children’s Play Areas – Similar to the playroom, but on a much small scale and a fee is required. Location: Terminal A, airside, domestic and international departures. Rate: 300 ₽ per 30 minutes.
• Parenting Room – The parenting room is equipped with baby cribs, changing tables and play areas. Location: Terminal D. No fees; however, you must obtain a medical certificate to gain entry – see Health Centre located in Terminal A. Available for children under 7 y.o. but parents with children under 3 have priority.

Luggage Carts – Need a hand with your bags? Luggage carts are available free of charge near the airport entrance/check-in and the baggage claim area.

SIM Cards – A reader tells us “you can purchase SIM cards right after exiting [the] baggage claim zone. SIM card stands will be after you will cross ‘green corridor'”.

Please note: A majority of public transportation signage and PA announcements are in Russian only. If you are not familiar with the Russian language, you may find it helpful to keep an easily accessible list of your metro, bus, and train stops or routes written in Russian and your native language as a quick reference while navigating your way around.

VKO airport is connected to the city bus system via routes 611, 611C and 611F. These options connect you to the Yugo-Zapadnaya metro station where you can connect to onward travels. For fares, routes and schedules, visit the Moscow Vnukovo Airport website.

Hotel Shuttles

At the time of this update we were unable to find any hotels that offer an airport shuttle.  See also Airport Hotels  above.

Minibus route 45m operates between Vnukovo Airport and the Yugo-Zapadnaya metro station from 7:00AM – 10:30PM. The Ford van minibuses depart every 10 minutes, or once it is full. To access the minibus via metro, take Line 1 (red) to the Yugo-Zapadnaya metro station at the southwest (bottom) end of the line. The minibus stops are located on the curb outside of the Yugo-Zapadnaya metro station and at the forecourt of Vnukovo Airport Terminal A. At the time of this update, the fare is RUR 100 per passenger (plus RUR 10/extra piece of luggage).

Taxis are readily available outside of the first floor at Terminal A and Terminal B.

Vnukovo Airport is connected to central Moscow via the non-stop Aeroexpress. The Aeroexpress originates at Kievskiy railway terminal (metro stop: Kievskaya) and runs to the underground level of Terminal A (total trip time: 35 minutes). For fares, schedules and routes, visit the Aeroexpress website.

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Access Airport Lounges (With or Without a Premium Ticket)

March 17, 2023

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So you just arrived at the airport, and you’re looking forward to a relaxing few hours in one of the airport lounges before a flight. But how do you go about getting access? Not all credit cards offer lounge access, but there are a number of ways to get in using your credit card. Here’s what you need to know.

The Turkish Airlines Lounge entrance at Washington Dulles (IAD).

What Is an Airport Lounge?

An airport lounge functions as an “exclusive” in-airport club (I use quotations because that exclusion is getting a bit more inclusive) and it provides members with all of the things you’ve been scrambling to find in the terminal: food, rest, seating, charging ports, nice bathrooms, WiFi, and even a shower.

Not all airport lounges are created equal. Some lounges are designed around a specific airline or alliance and are open to elite travelers within that airline or alliance. Others are a bit more general, and access to these lounges is getting more and more accessible. I’ll explain a bit more about accessibility in a bit, but first, let’s talk about the perks of airport lounges.

Complimentary Snacks and Beverages

Gummy Bears at the Lufthansa Business Lounge!

Almost every lounge comes with snacks and drinks, but the presentation varies between lounges. Generally, you can expect a selection of fresh fruits, snack foods like chips and cookies, and at least a variety of cold salads and sandwiches. Sometimes, the lounge will also feature a hot buffet with food that rotates with the time of day.

Some premium lounges offer sit down restaurants, but these are often only found in business and first class lounges overseas.

Whether you’re after a latte or a beer, you can find a wide selection of sodas, juices, coffees, cocktails, wines, and brews in most lounges. The majority of the time, these products are free with entrance but some lounges charge an extra fee for alcoholic drinks, or issue a limited number of drink tickets.

Comfortable Seating, Charging Facilities, and WiFi

Air France Business Class Lounge JFK

I am all about free food, but ample seating and power outlets are my favorite things about hitting up the airport lounge between flights. The chaos of the terminal outside fades away as I sink into a comfortable armchair and connect to the lounge’s own WiFi, with my laptop and phone powering up. Some lounges also have dedicated napping areas, which is great for travelers who need some shut-eye before their red-eye or during a short overnight layover.

Premium Amenities: Showers & Restrooms

Not every lounge has a shower room, but it’s pretty common. Just be sure to take into account the fact that the shower may not be available when you need it, especially during peak hours. Bathrooms, though, are always available and almost always spotless in my experience. If you want to shower, you may need to check in and get in line. Some lounges can have long waits for showers and require you to join a waitlist, while others may be more readily available.

Unique Airport Lounge Features and Surprises

Throughout the past decade, airport lounges have really stepped up their game. For a little while, David Guetta hosted his own airport lounge in Ibiza which included a DJ and a dance floor. Unfortunately, that airport club doesn’t exist now, but instead, head to Punta Cana and take a dip in their infinity pool that overlooks the tarmac.

Airport Lounge Access Through Premium Credit Cards

Credit cards are the ticket currently making lounge access attainable to many and it’s the fastest way to get yourself in, even on an economy ticket. There are several different ways by which you could play this one, and it depends on which lounges you’d like to access.

Of course, premier lines of credit are not practical nor accessible to everyone, but they are more accessible than elite status, and having the right card is a quicker way to gain lounge access, plus earn points and miles towards future travel.

Priority Pass Select Membership

Lufthansa Senator and Business Lounge, Washington D.C.

Most ultra-premium cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve®  and The Platinum Card ® from American Express will get you into Priority Pass network lounges. However, not all access to Priority Pass lounges is created equal. Notably, the Priority Pass access through the Platinum Card does not include access to Priority Pass restaurants.

You can access priority pass with the following credit cards:

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

• The Platinum Card ® from American Express (enrollment required)
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express (enrollment required)
• Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card (enrollment required)
• Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card (enrollment required)
• Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card (enrollment required, 10 complimentary visits, $32 per additional visit)
• The Hilton Honors American Express Business Card (enrollment required, 10 complimentary visits, $32 per additional visit)
• U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Membership Rewards® Points

after you spend $8,000 on purchases in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

Annual Fee: $695 Terms Apply. | Rates & Fees.

Special Limited-Time Offer!

Chase Ultimate Rewards® Points

after you spend $4,000 in 3 months

Annual Fee: $550

American Express Centurion Lounges

Centurion Lounge Bar – Seattle

The Centurion® Network includes Centurion Lounges and Escape Lounges spread across more than 40 locations worldwide. Only eligible card members are granted access to these exclusive lounges where they can relax and enjoy food and drinks before taking off. The Escape Lounges and The Centurion® Studio Partner also provide deluxe perks to eligible Card Members.

How to Access American Express Centurion Lounges

A number of select American Express cards will get you access to the American Express Centurion Lounges, Delta Sky Clubs when flying on a same-day Delta-marketed or operated flight and Global Lounge Collection Lounges, in addition to Priority Pass lounges.

The Platinum Card® from American Express and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express holders can enter for free. Guests are charged $50 per adult and $30 per child (ages 2 through 17). If you spend $75,000 on either card each calendar year, you’ll qualify for complimentary guest access for up to two guests.

All eligible card members are required to present a physical government-issued I.D., same-day boarding pass and a valid American Express card. 

The following cards grant access to American Express Centurion Lounges:

• The Platinum Card ® from American Express

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

• Centurion® Card from American Express
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card (when flying Delta on the same day)
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card (when flying Delta on the same day)

after you spend $20,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Platinum Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership

Capital One Lounges

The Capital One Lounges are everyday airport lounges where you can relax, rejuvenate and explore. An excellent getaway from the bustling airport crowd, they provide luxurious and all-inclusive amenities to travelers.

Dallas Capital One Lounge | Photo Credit from Google Maps contributed by Tyler M

To access any of the Capital One Lounges, you need to present a same-day boarding pass. Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card holders enjoy unlimited free access along with two complimentary guest visits per visit. Additional guests pay $45.

Capital One Venture Credit Card and the Capital One Spark Miles for Business card holders receive two complimentary visits per year, which can be used for guests access. Additional visit cost $45.

All other cardholders and non-customers can gain access for a $65 fee.

Children under the age of 2 can enter for free with a supervising parent or guardian. Reservations aren’t required, and access is subject to availability, which can be redeemed or purchased at the check-in desk. Eligible accounts must be in good standing to gain this access.

The following cards grant access to Capital One Lounges:

Venture Miles

after you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months.

Annual Fee: $395

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

after you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening.

Annual Fee: $95

Chase Sapphire Lounges

Chase has introduced the Chase Sapphire Lounges by The Club into the airport lounge space. The first location has opened in Hong Kong, and more lounges are coming to New York, Boston, Phoenix and Las Vegas. Cardholders will have a variety of options when looking for a comfortable spot to relax before flying.

For the time being, both Priority Pass members and Chase Sapphire Reserve® card holders have free access to the Chase Sapphire Lounges. The availability of restricted or discounted access for other Chase credit cards, such as the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, is unknown.

Airline Cards

Premier credit cards that are airline-specific also offer access to each airlines’ individual lounges. The Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® , Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card , and the United Club℠ Infinite Card by Chase will get you into specific airline alliance lounges if you find that you’re frequently flying the same airline.

A number of United cards also offer a limited number of one-time use passes each year, but United has been known to restrict the use of these due to capacity limits.

Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®

AAdvantage® bonus miles

after spending $7,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.

Annual Fee: $595

United Club℠ Infinite Card

Bonus Miles

after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening

Annual Fee: $525

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

after you spend $6,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.

Annual Fee: $650 Terms Apply. | Rates & Fees.

Other Ways to Access Airport Lounges

Credit cards aren’t the only way to access airline lounges, of course. Here are three other ways to gain access before your next flight.

Airline Elite Status

If you’re an elite traveler for a particular airline or alliance, your status generally includes complimentary access into all alliance lounges. However, this isn’t necessarily the case if you have status with a U.S. airline and want access to that airline’s lounges within the U.S.

Elite travelers know, though, that the road to stardom is paved with, well, miles flown and miles earned. This can take quite a lot of time to build from the ground up. If you want access to a specific airline’s lounge, each of the three major U.S. airlines have a credit card that can get you access. This is a more sure-fire way to get access than working to get it from status.

Fly Business or First Class

If you’re flying in Business or First, your ticket will usually include complimentary access into alliance lounges. However, sometimes this perk only extends to international itineraries so you’ll need to double-check your entitlements if you’re planning on flying only domestically.

Buy a Day Pass

This method is a little bit dated due to recent surges of cardholders with newfound lounge access, but some lounges still allow passengers to buy their way in. You can purchase a one-time entry or a day pass, depending on your travel needs. Note that this only works for specific lounges and is something that is a little bit less common since many lounge-goers hold at least one relevant credit card anyway.

Final Thoughts On Airport Lounges

If you’re looking for a way to make your airport experience a little more luxurious, consider getting a credit card that offers access to airport lounges. Lounges offer a variety of amenities, from comfortable seating and work spaces to complimentary food and drinks. And, best of all, these spaces can help you avoid the crowds and long lines at the airport. So if you’re in the market for a new credit card, be sure to consider the cards on this list.

New to the world of points and miles? The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is the best card to start with.

With a bonus of 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening. , 5x points on travel booked through the Chase Travel Portal and 3x points on restaurants, streaming services, and online groceries (excluding Target, Walmart, and wholesale clubs), this card truly cannot be beat for getting started!

Editors Note: Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

bonus points

after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening.

American Express® Gold Card

after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months. Terms apply.

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Five Best U.S. Airport Lounges for Your Money

These five airport lounges can help you relax without breaking the bank.

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Have time to kill before a flight? An airport lounge can provide a perfect place to relax. The best lounges will pamper you with access to fast WiFi, fresh food, drinks, and other amenities while you wait for your boarding time. 

Once a perk exclusively for business and first-class flyers, airport lounges have become havens for all types of travelers. What’s more, a growing number of credit card companies are offering airport lounge access to certain cardholders. For example, the Capital One Venture X Rewards and the Chase Sapphire Reserve include subscriptions to Priority Pass , a network of over 1,500 airport lounges worldwide, as part of their annual fee. (You can find out more details about these cards and other credit cards with travel rewards below and in our roundup of the best travel credit cards .) 

Don’t have a travel rewards credit card? Don’t worry — many airport lounges offer day passes, with prices typically ranging anywhere from $40 to $100 a day, according to Kayak . But which lounges offer the best value?  

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5 Best Airport Lounges

Here are five airport lounges in the U.S. that are well worth your travel dollars.

1. Escape Lounge at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport

Day pass: $45, or $40 if you pre-book at least 24 hours in advance

Location: Terminal 3

Hours: 4:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily

“It doesn’t get any more bang for the buck than this,” says Scott Leazemby, a San Diego-based travel blogger who chronicles his travel experiences at SANSpotter . Although it lacks private areas, the lounge’s selection of food is “excellent for a small independent lounge, featuring a variety of hot and cold entrées and plenty of snacks,” Leazemby says. The bar offers complimentary drinks such as lattes, draft beer, and wines.  

2. Admirals Club at Miami International Airport

Day pass: $79

Location: North Terminal, Concourse D

Hours: 5:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily

This two-story lounge offers no shortage of ways for families to pass the time. It features Android tablets, where you can play games, catch up on the news, and browse the Web; an enclosed kids’ room, where the little ones to get their energy out; and a main sitting area with great views of the tarmac, according to a review on the travel site Upgraded Points . 

3. Capital One Lounge at the Dallas-Fort Worth Airport

Day pass: $65

Location: Terminal D

Hours: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily 

Featuring a cycling and yoga room with Peloton bikes, nap pods, shower suites, and luggage lockers, this buzzy airport lounge from Capital One includes a bar with a wide assortment of beverages, including a pecan Bourbon old fashioned and other craft cocktails, local craft beer, and cold brew coffee on tap. There’s also a grab-and-go cooler with salads, sandwiches, juices, sparkling water, and desserts. Plus, “The décor is sleek and modern, and most areas offer a view of the runway,” writes Stacy Brooks, a Minneapolis- based blogger, in a review of the lounge on her travel and food blog Tangled Up In Food. 

If you're considering a Capital One card with lounge access, read our review of the Capital One Venture Rewards card , offering new cardholders a $750 bonus offer. The luxury version of that card, the Capital One Venture X card, was voted the best airline credit card in the Kiplinger 2024 Readers' Choice Awards for best travel credit cards .

4. United Club B East at Denver International Airport

Day pass: $59

Location: Terminal B

Hours: 5:00 am to 9:30 pm.

This 35,000-square-foot, 600-seat lounge, unveiled in 2023, captures the essence of the Mile High City. Beer lovers can sip on a flight of beers from Colorado breweries in the second-floor bar, which has shuffleboard tables and an industrial vibe with an exposed ceiling. The lounge offers three buffets, serving up unique dishes such as maple-mustard chicken thighs, vegetarian green chili, and an egg frittata inspired by the Denver omelet. Throughout the two-story space you’ll find a wide array of furnishings and artwork from Denver artists, including photography, paintings, sculptures, and murals. Both levels feature floor-to-ceiling glass views of the airfield and a gas fireplace with neatly stacked logs.

5. Chase Sapphire Lounge at New York LaGuardia Airport

Day pass: $100

Hours: 4:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily

This is the highest-priced lounge on our list, but it’s an all-around winner. Opened earlier this year, the 21,850-square-foot lounge offers two floors packed with amenities. The seasonal menu, from West Village bistro Joseph Leonard , features fresh pastries, Korean fried chicken bites, vegan spinach bowls, and other dishes that you can order directly to your seat using a QR code. Ben Schlappig, of the One Mile at a Time travel blog, called the seared salmon and lentil ragout "phenomenal” in a review of the lounge. In addition, the lounge features private rest pods, wellness treatment rooms with complimentary facials, and a retro-inspired game room with a photo booth, pinball machines, a jukebox, and shuffleboard.  

Tips for Saving on Lounge Access

Credit cards with lounge privileges and sign-on bonsues.

Some air carriers offer lower lounge membership prices to travelers who have the airline’s credit card and to frequent flyers. Many of these are offering bonuses to new cardholders, listed below. Not all cards provide lounge access, so read the terms carefully. For example, new cardholders can earn points worth up to $937 with a Chase Sapphire Preferred card , but they won't get lounge privileges. Only the Chase Sapphire Reserve card offers lounge access in the Sapphire line.

And don't forget credit cards that are co-branded with hotels. For example, the Hilton Honors Surpass card offers premium airport lounge access with a complimentary Priority Pass Select membership. Enrolled members get ten free airport lounge visits each Priority Pass Membership year.

Hot tip : Some of the best bonus and lounge offers are for business credit card customers. 

• $1,500 to $3,000 Amex Card Intro Offer (for a business card)
• $2,775 Capital One Business Card Intro Offer
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card $750 Bonus Offer
• Alaska Airlines Credit Card: $660 Bonus Offer
• Earn Delta SkyMiles Worth up to $720
• Best Airline Credit Card Bonuses with a Free Ticket
• Hilton Honors Bonus Offer Worth $780 Plus Free Night

Getting access through memberships

Frequently fly a particular airline? A number of major air carriers, such as Alaska Airlines, American, Delta , Hawaiian Airlines, and United, offer annual memberships that provide access to their network of lounges. Prices typically run from $400 to $850 per year. A one-year Delta Sky Club membership, which offers access to more than 50 airport lounges, costs $695. A one-year United Club membership, with access to more than 45 locations, costs $650.

Alaska Airlines won the best airline credit card rewards program in the Kiplinger 2024 Readers' Choice Awards .

• Delta to Open Three 'Premium' Lounges This Year
• Best Travel Rewards Credit Cards
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Daniel Bortz is a freelance writer based in Arlington, Va. His work has been published by The New York Times, The Washington Post, Consumer Reports, Newsweek, and Money magazine, among others.  

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The ultimate guide to Alaska Airlines lounge access

Editor's Note

If you frequently fly on Alaska Airlines , access to one of the carrier's airport lounges can significantly improve your preflight experience. It's no secret that airports can certainly be a bit chaotic, especially if you're flying during peak travel season or the holidays. So, with complimentary food and drinks and a chance to relax while you wait for your flight, Alaska Airlines' lounge experience can provide a more quiet and luxurious preflight experience. Luckily, getting inside the lounges isn't too difficult.

Keep reading as we walk you through the different ways to gain access to Alaska lounges.

Related: Your complete guide to earning and redeeming with Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan

Alaska lounge overview

Alaska Airlines offers a rather extensive lounge network for a primarily domestic and short-haul airline. It operates a total of nine lounges across six airports throughout the U.S.

Here are the Alaska Lounge locations:

• Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC) — Concourse C, near gate C-1
• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) — Terminal 7 on the mezzanine level, just above security
• Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) — Terminal 6 on the mezzanine level, near Gate 64
• Portland International Airport (PDX) — Concourse B, near the entrance
• Portland — Concourse C, across from gate C5
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO) — Terminal 2, just beyond the D security checkpoint
• Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) — Concourse C, on the mezzanine level next to Gate C-16
• Seattle — Concourse D, just beyond the central security checkpoint
• Seattle — North satellite on the mezzanine level, above gates N13-18

Related: Best credit cards for airport lounge access

Alaska Lounge amenities include fast Wi-Fi, easy access to power outlets, barista-made espresso beverages and a full bar featuring complimentary local craft brews, West Coast wines and spirits. Lounge guests can also enjoy complimentary prepackaged snacks, such as steel-cut oatmeal, fresh pancakes, various soups and cheese.

Paid membership for Alaska Airlines lounges

Like most major airlines, Alaska Airlines sells annual memberships to its lounges.

The price is based on whether or not you have MVP elite status, and there are two options: Alaska Lounge and Alaska Lounge+. The standard membership provides access to Alaska Lounges only. Meanwhile, the extended option offers access to a network of partner lounges, including all American Airlines Admirals Clubs, Qantas Club locations and some United Clubs .

Here are the current membership prices:

• Alaska Lounge membership : $500 annually or $400 for Alaska Airlines elite members.
• Alaska Lounge+ membership : $650 annually or $550 for Alaska Airlines elite members.

From Feb. 1, 2024, membership prices will increase to the following amounts:

• Alaska Lounge membership : $550 annually or $450 for Alaska Airlines elite members.
• Alaska Lounge+ membership : $750 annually or $650 for Alaska Airlines elite members.

Related: A look at the Alaska Lounge in San Francisco

Complimentary Alaska Lounge+ membership is a Choice Benefit option for Mileage Plan elite members with MVP Gold 100K status.

Also, cardholders with the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card get $100 off an annual Alaska Lounge+ membership after paying with their card. (Note that the credit card discount cannot be combined with the elite status discount, though).

Currently, you can access an Alaska Airlines lounge if you have a membership or purchase a single-entry pass, and present a same-day boarding pass from any airline. However, starting Feb. 1, 2024, you can only enter a lounge with a same-day boarding pass on a flight operated by Alaska Airlines, a Oneworld alliance partner like American Airlines or British Airways, or another Alaska partner like Condor.

Please note that if you're visiting one of Alaska's partner lounges included in the Alaska Lounge+ membership, you may need a boarding pass for that specific airline. Therefore, it's always best to double-check the policies of the lounge you want to visit.

Single-entry passes to Alaska Airlines lounges

Membership to the Alaska Airlines lounges also includes access for you and up to two guests or immediate family members. Additional guest passes are available at a reduced rate of $30 per person versus $60 for daypasses for nonmembers. However, you can only purchase daypasses at the Alaska Lounges in Portland, San Francisco, New York and Los Angeles. According to the airline's website, they are trying to "maintain space" for their lounge members; therefore, daypasses are no longer sold at their Seattle or Anchorage lounge locations.

When you purchase a daypass at a specific lounge, note that the pass will only allow you entry to that one lounge. Therefore, if you purchase a single-entry pass at LAX and have a connecting flight in Portland, your lounge pass will only grant you access to the LAX lounge.

Additionally, Alaska Airlines offers "complimentary lounge passes for U.S. military personnel traveling on official government-sponsored travel booked through SATO and ticketed to fly on an Alaska flight departing within 3 hours," per the airline's website. If you are an active-duty military member, you can purchase a daypass with a valid military ID at the discounted rate of $30.

Related: 6 things you need to know about Alaska's new lounge access rules

Alaska Airlines elite status lounge access

Alaska Airlines offers one of the most underrated elite programs, thanks largely to the generous mileage multipliers that elite members can earn.

The program has four tiers of status: MVP , MVP Gold, MVP Gold 75K and MVP Gold 100K. You'll earn four Alaska Lounge daypasses if you qualify for MVP Gold 75K or MVP Gold 100K. With daypasses normally selling for $60, this equates to a nice $240 benefit for top-tier elite members. Alaska even lets you share these passes with friends and family, giving you more flexibility in how and when you enjoy your lounge access.

Also, now that MVP Gold, MVP Gold 75K and MVP Gold 100K members have Oneworld status, they can access Alaska Lounges on qualifying long-haul international itineraries operated by Alaska or a Oneworld partner — regardless of what class of service they are flying. However, Alaska elite members do not get access when traveling solely within or between the U.S., Canada, Mexico (except Mexico City), the Bahamas, Bermuda and the Caribbean.

That said, if you have Oneworld Sapphire or Emerald status in any program other than Alaska Mileage Plan or American AAdvantage, you can access Alaska Lounges when flying any Oneworld flight on the same day; eligible elite members are allowed to bring one guest.

Certain non-Oneworld elite members have access to Alaska Lounges as well. For example, Hainan Airlines Fortune Wings Platinum and Gold members can access the lounges when flying Alaska Airlines on the same day.

Related: What is Alaska Airlines elite status worth?

Do first-class Alaska Airlines Tickets get lounge access?

Passengers traveling on a paid first-class ticket or a first-class award ticket can access Alaska lounges (but not partner lounges) if the Alaska Airlines flight exceeds 2,100 miles on the day of travel, they are traveling to Hawaii, or if it's an international long-haul flight. However, passengers who upgraded to first class, whether as a complimentary upgrade, a paid upgrade or an upgrade with miles, won't have access to Alaska lounges.

If no single flight exceeds 2,100 miles, guests may purchase a discounted single-entry pass for $30, subject to space availability. Guests do not have access to other Oneworld member lounges with a first-class ticket on Alaska Airlines.

Can you access Alaska Airlines lounges with Priority Pass?

Until recently, Priority Pass holders had access to Alaska's lounges in Anchorage, Los Angeles, Portland, Seattle and New York. However, the airline has removed all of its lounges from Priority Pass. Though you may not be able to access the Alaska Airlines lounges with Priority Pass, this lounge membership service provides you access to more than 1,300 lounges worldwide.

If you don't currently have a Priority Pass membership , consider adding one of the many credit cards offering access to Priority Pass airport lounges to your wallet .

Related: Everything you need to know about the Priority Pass program

Bottom line

Alaska Airlines offers several ways to access its lounges, including reasonably priced paid memberships and single-entry passes for elite members. However, with limited airport lounges in the United States, unless you regularly fly with Alaska Airlines or frequent one of the six airports that have an Alaska Airlines lounge, it may not be worth your financial investment.

But if you're a frequent Alaska flyer, a Oneworld elite member or just looking for a single-entry pass before a trip, you do have several options to make your predeparture experience more relaxing.

Updated as of 4/18/2024.

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The Best Airport Lounges in the World — and How to Get In

From Paris to Sydney, these amazing airport lounges offer gourmet restaurants, relaxing spas, and more.

Forget fluorescent lighting, stale buffet food, and spotty Wi-Fi. These days, the best airport lounges feature amenities like yoga studios, detox bars, spa treatments, and dining rooms with menus by celebrity chefs . Of course, you generally have to pay for the privilege of luxuriating in these wonderful way stations by flying business or first class . But some premium credit cards will also grant you access. Here are 13 of the world's best airport lounges, and how you can get into them.

Some of these lounges might be closed at the moment, but all are expected to reopen. Before any intended visit, be sure to check with your airline about what facilities and amenities are available, and what cleaning and health protocols are in place.

Air France La Première Lounge, Paris

Air France's La Première first-class cabin is one of the most fashionable flying experiences in the world, and the airline's ground game is très chic , too. The airline reopened its flagship first-class lounge at Charles de Gaulle in May after an extensive refurbishment that included freshening up the cozy cocktail bar to be brighter and more inviting, adding semi-private relaxation areas and installing new pieces of art. Fliers can still expect cuisine created by star chef Alain Ducasse in the dining room. Hopefully, the Biologique Recherche spa treatments will resume soon, too.

Access: If you're one of the lucky few departing or connecting in Paris in Air France's La Première cabin, you're golden. You can also purchase access if you're departing on a long-haul Air France or Delta flight that's not equipped with La Première cabins for 500 euros ($600), or 75,000 of the airline's Flying Blue frequent flier miles, per person.

American Airlines Flagship First Dining

Although they are currently closed due to COVID-19, American Airlines fields its most exclusive lounges, Flagship First Dining venues, at its hubs in Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami, and New York JFK. Once inside, guests are seated at their own individual tables and can order from gourmet menus that might include seasonal dishes such as roasted beet and burrata salad, or free-range beef tenderloin with peppercorn crust and prosciutto-wrapped asparagus. The airline also typically serves Krug Champagne along with other premium vintages from France and the U.S., as well as handcrafted cocktails.

Access: Getting into a Flagship First Dining lounge requires passengers to be traveling in the airline's first-class cabin on international routes, or one of its transcontinental flights in a three-cabin plane (meaning, economy, business, and first class). The Miami location is set to reopen in September, with the others to follow.

American Express Centurion Lounges

American Express has been steadily expanding its network of chic Centurion Lounges , even opening new locations throughout the pandemic in airports like New York JFK and Charlotte. It will soon count 40 locations, including both Centurion Lounges and freshly rebranded Escape Lounges — The Centurion Studio Partner (read: smaller outposts with fewer amenities) around the world. Although the services and facilities vary from lounge to lounge, guests can expect consistent touches across the network, including place-specific décor and installations by local artists, fine-dining menus created by up-and-coming regional chefs, and both signature cocktails as well as more unique options like Napa wines in San Francisco and Colorado microbrews in Denver. Some lounges even house spas, while the JFK one has a speakeasy bar .

Access: If you have a Platinum, Business Platinum, or Centurion (a.k.a. Black) card and present a same-day boarding pass, you can spend some time in these lounges. Those with a Delta SkyMiles Reserve business or personal card can also come in when flying Delta.

Cathay Pacific The Pier First Class Lounge, Hong Kong

Designed by Ilse Crawford (whose other projects include Ett Hem in Stockholm and Refettorio Felix in London), this stunning salon is all about different spaces for different vibes. There are elegant sitting areas framed by floor-to-ceiling windows with tarmac views for the aviation geeks, and a distinctive, horseshoe-shaped cocktail bar with a pale green onyx top for the see-and-be-seen scenesters. The mid-century-inspired restaurant serves classy continental fare (but also the airline's signature spicy dan dan noodles). For those in search of quietude, however, there are eight day rooms plus shower suites in The Retreat portion, as well as a small spa offering complimentary mini treatments like facials and foot massages.

Access: Another one closed until further notice, we expect this lounge to reopen eventually given its popularity. To get in, you'll need to be departing in first class on Cathay Pacific or another Oneworld airline, or have Oneworld top-tier Emerald status.

Delta Sky Club, Atlanta

Delta fields no fewer than nine Sky Clubs at its home airport of Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson . Visit the one in Concourse F because that's the location with the outdoor Sky Deck, where guests can enjoy snacks and drinks with views of the runways. Barring that, try to swing by the flagship in Concourse B. It has the most space to spread out, and fun features like a "wine wall" of bottles curated by Andrea Robinson, the airline's master sommelier, as well as a rotating selection of Southern tapas from acclaimed Atlanta-based chef Linton Hopkins. A gallery of works by local artists and brightly lit shower suites are added bonuses.

Access: Want to access either location? You'll need a Delta Sky Club membership or to be flying business class on international or transcontinental routes with Delta or its SkyTeam partners. Some SkyTeam elites can also get in, as can folks with the Amex Platinum or Delta SkyMiles Reserve cards who are flying with the airline the same day.

Emirates First Class Lounge, Dubai

The Emirates First Class Lounge at Dubai International Airport is essentially its own terminal, spanning nearly the entire length of the airport's international concourse. Once inside, guests can indulge with a tasting in the lounge's wine cellar or a treatment in the Timeless Spa. Then, perk up with an espresso at the coffee bar or sit back with a stogie in the cigar lounge. There's also a whole arcade of in-lounge duty-free shops. The dining room fields an extensive buffet, with everything from sushi to pastries, as well as à la carte options, though feel free to order food and drinks from any of the expansive seating areas you happen to settle in. There are also shower suites and semi-private quiet rooms for napping, if you just want to unwind.

Access: If you want to spend some time here, you'll need to have Emirates Skywards Platinum elite status or be departing in first class on an Emirates flight.

Lufthansa First Class Terminal, Frankfurt

Lufthansa has created not just a first-class lounge, but an entire First Class Terminal, at its hub in Frankfurt. Instead of heading to the main airport, fliers can pull right up to the First Class Terminal and go through security screening on-site before enjoying the lounge's many attractions. They'll then pass through a dedicated customs and immigration checkpoint before being chauffeured to their flight. The lounge's highlights include a cigar lounge, a bar serving over 130 different kinds of whiskey, a full-service dining room, and shower rooms including one with a full bath (ask for one of the airline's signature rubber duckies before you lather up).

Access: The First Class Terminal will reopen on Sept. 1 . When it does, you'll need to be departing in first class on Lufthansa, or arriving on Lufthansa in first class and connecting to a flight operated by Lufthansa, Austrian, or Swiss. Uber-elite Hon Circle fliers can also get in.

Qantas First Lounge, Sydney

When you make your way past the massive living wall of plants and step onto the escalator that whisks you from the crowded concourse up to the lounge level at Qantas' Sydney hub, it's like taking a journey back to the golden age of flying, complete with a vintage-style destination board featuring clattering letter and number tiles. Guests can while away the hours nibbling on seasonal fare created by Aussie celebrity chef Neil Perry, or step into the day spa for a complimentary massage or facial performed with fancy LaGaia products. There are also a number of marble-clad shower suites for freshening up and private conference rooms for impromptu meetings.

Access: Closed for now, this lounge should reopen when international flights resume . First-class fliers on Qantas, Emirates, or Oneworld partner flights can get in, as can certain Qantas, Emirates, and Oneworld elites departing on Qantas, Emirates, or Oneworld partner airline flights.

Qatar Airways Al Mourjan Business Lounge, Doha

You might think Qatar Airways' industry-leading business-class Qsuites are the main reason to fly the airline, but a sojourn in its spacious, sophisticated lounge in Doha isn't a bad rationale either. Measuring up at over 100,000 square feet, there's something for everyone, including dedicated family spaces, both quiet and more communal sitting areas, small semi-private napping rooms, not one but two dining rooms, and a warren of individual shower suites, plus a game room with pinball machines, foosball, PlayStation, and even an F1 race car simulator. Saunter down the sculptural spiral staircase to the reflecting pool to feel like a true jetsetter.

Access: To get in, you need to be flying business or first class on Qatar Airways, or one of its Oneworld partners, though you might be able to purchase access online ahead of time or during travel if you're flying the airline in economy or on a basic business fare.

Swiss First Class Lounge, Zurich

The first thing you see when entering Swiss' flagship lounge is a glassed-in humidor containing 1,000 bottles of wine, some of which are served at the nearby Champagne counter and in the lounge's two restaurants. Passengers with longer connections can take advantage of two fully equipped "hotel rooms," complete with Hästens beds and en-suite bathrooms. If you're just passing through, however, a rinse in one of the shower suites might suffice, while business travelers can book a conference room for meetings on the fly. Take a moment to step out onto the terrace for a breath of fresh air and views of the Alps, too.

Access: The lounge is currently closed, but will hopefully reopen soon to guests departing or connecting on Swiss or Lufthansa in first class.

Turkish Airlines Lounge Business, Istanbul

At over 60,000 square feet, and with space for 765 people, you might think Turkish Airlines' lounge at the relatively new Istanbul Airport is too large to be luxurious, but you'd be wrong. There are a variety of comfy seating areas, including individual cabines for folks who want a quiet space to nap or work. There's a multimedia room with a wall of televisions for entertainment and a business center outfitted with iMacs, plus a kids' area with a small playground. If you're feeling peckish, simply wander around to one of the various food stations for both buffet and made-to-order specialties such as pide , gözleme , and baklava . And if the lounge happens to be crowded, you can always pop into one of the private shower suites for a preflight ablution.

Access: First- and business-class passengers on Turkish Airlines and other Star Alliance flights, as well as Star Alliance Gold elites, should be able to get in.

United Polaris Lounge, Chicago

Along with rebranding its international business-class cabins and service a few years back, United also began building bespoke Polaris business-class lounges at several of its hubs. The mother ship is at Chicago O'Hare and features unique elements, like an installation by artist Wolfgang Buttress on the ceiling that mirrors the Chicago night sky, as well as relaxation areas with chaise lounge's outfitted with Saks Fifth Avenue pillows and blankets. There are also plenty of seating spaces, depending on whether you want to socialize or work, including individual pods with a single armchair and desk each. The large dining area includes a buffet and a full-service menu with dishes like mahi mahi tostadas and orange-seared chicken, as well as creative cocktails like the Polaris paloma.

Access: To enter, you must be flying United Polaris (not just the airline's domestic business or first class) or business or first class internationally on a Star Alliance carrier.

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse, London

Virgin Atlantic almost singlehandedly made flying fun again when it debuted back in the 1980s, and nowhere is that swinging spirit still on display more than in the airline's flagship Clubhouse at London Heathrow. There's a 14-meter cocktail bar for carousing with your fellow passengers, as well as a dining room with à la carte selections (like the classic Clubhouse cheeseburger), where you can also linger over a leisurely afternoon tea. Your first stop, however, should be the salon and spa desk to book a first-come, first-served complimentary hair or spa treatment, so you look your best for your flight.

Access: Heathrow Terminal 3 just reopened, so this lounge can't be far behind. To get in, you'll need to be flying Virgin Atlantic Upper Class or Delta One, or some combination of high-end elite status with Virgin Atlantic or one of its airline partners.

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Phoenix airport lounges: Every one in Terminal 3 and Terminal 4 and how to get in free

After getting through security at the airport, you probably have some free time before your flight starts boarding.

But you dread long waits for food and coffee at the restaurants, and wonder whether you'll get to your gate in time to get a seat near a charging port.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport lounges offer a place where people can get away from the crowds, enjoy some food, and drink and charge their laptops or phones.

Every airport lounge in Phoenix offers different amenities, and each has a different set of requirements for who can get in. Some are exclusive to specific airlines, like American Airlines' Admirals Clubs, and require a certain level of status to enter. Others are open to certain credit card holders for free, or the general public for a fee.

Here's a guide to every lounge at the Phoenix airport Terminal 3 and Terminal 4.

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Phoenix airport lounges Terminal 3

Delta sky club.

Where to find it:  Near Gate F8.

Amenities:  Complimentary Wi-Fi and power outlets at nearly every seat. Staff can answer questions and assist with flight information.

Food:  Complimentary beverages as well as premium wines, regional craft beers, spirits and signature cocktails for purchase. A seasonally inspired menu includes breakfast favorites and an all-day selection of soups, salads, sandwiches, regional specialties, snacks and desserts.

How to get in:  The club is for members only. Day passes are not offered. Here's who can get in the Delta Sky Club:

• An individual membership costs $695 a year or 69,500 miles. It provides unlimited access for the member only, though members can bring up to two guests for an additional fee per guest per visit.
• An executive membership costs $1,495 a year or 149,500 miles. It provides unlimited access for the member and up to two guests per visit.
• Delta One or Sky Team Premium Cabin passengers.
• Delta Diamond Medallion members.
• Sky Team Elite Plus (including Delta Diamond, Platinum or Gold Medallion members).
• Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card members.
• American Express Centurion Card and Platinum Card members.

Details: Open from 4:45 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.  www.delta.com .

Escape Lounge – the Centurion Studio Partner

Where to find it:  Between the E and F gates, next to Passage by Hudson and the Phoenix Airport Museum Gallery.

Amenities: Complimentary Wi-Fi and charging ports at every seat. Guests have complimentary access to electronic magazines and newspapers via PressReader.

Food: The menu includes banana walnut muffins, a spinach egg bake and apple bread pudding at breakfast; spinach salads, turkey and Swiss sandwiches, and chicken marsala at lunch and dinner; and a selection of chef's choice cookies.

How to get in: Escape Lounges are open to the public for a fee and open to American Express Platinum and Delta SkyMiles Reserve credit card members for free. Access costs $40 per visit when booked online at least 24 hours in advance and $45 per visit at the door.

Details: Open 4:30 a.m.-10 p.m. escapelounges.com .

United Club

Where to find it:  Near Gate E3.

Amenities:  122 seats, complimentary Wi-Fi and power outlets. Gender-neutral restrooms are available, plus a Wellness Room for nursing parents and people seeking meditation or prayer. Staff can answer questions and assist with flight information. Service animals are allowed, but must be well-behaved.

Food:  Soft drinks and most alcoholic beverages are complimentary. Buffet-style snacks include chicken sliders, chips and salsa, elote and cactus-shaped cookies.

How to get in:  Passengers who buy a day pass or United Club membership may use the lounge as long as they also have a same-day boarding pass for United Airlines. Here's who can get in:

• A United Club membership costs $650 per year and allows access to the airline's 45 United Clubs worldwide. Members can bring up to two adult guests, or one adult guest and dependent children under age 21, as long as the guests are also flying with United.
• One-time passes cost $59 and can be purchased on United's mobile app.
• United Club Infinite credit card holders.

Details: Open 5 a.m.-11:30 p.m.  www.united.com .

Phoenix airport lounges Terminal 4

American airlines admirals clubs.

Where to find them:  There are three in Terminal 4: above Gates A7 and A9, between Gates A19 and A21 and above Gates B5 and B7.

Amenities: The lounges have business centers with computers and conference-style seating areas. There are chairs along the windows where you can watch planes. Some chairs have outlets for charging your devices. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available.

Food: Complimentary buffet-style food, with drinks available in a full-service bar.

How to get in: Passengers who buy a day pass or have an Admirals Club membership can get in if they have a same-day boarding pass for a flight with American Airlines or other airlines in the Oneworld Alliance. In Phoenix, those include Alaska Airlines and British Airways. Here's who can get in:

• Admirals Club members, including annual and lifetime members. Members can bring immediate family or up to two guests. Membership costs $850 per year.
• Citi AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard primary card members, ConciergeKey members and AirPass members with Admirals Club privileges.
• First and business class passengers flying on most of American's international flights, or transcontinental and domestic flights ticketed as Flagship.
• AAdvantage Executive Platinum, Platinum Pro and Platinum members flying on most of American's international routes.
• Oneworld Emerald and Sapphire members.
• Citi AAdvantage Executive cardholders. The credit card has an annual fee of $595, but includes Admirals Club membership.
• One-day passes cost $79.
• Military with valid ID.

Details:  The club at A7-A9 is open 6 a.m.-12:30 a.m. The club at A19-A21 is open 4 a.m.-8 p.m. The club at Concourse B is open 6 a.m.-8 p.m. www.aa.com .

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Centurion Lounge

Where to find it:  Across from Gate B21.

Amenities: Free Wi-Fi; complimentary magazines and newspapers; printing, faxing and copy services; shower suite.

Food: The Centurion Lounge's menu features locally inspired cuisine designed by local chef Doug Robson of Gallo Blanco, one of The Arizona Republic's 100 essential metro Phoenix restaurants . Selections include Gallo Blanco flapjacks at breakfast and citrus-marinated pollo asado at lunch and dinner. Beverages include the Diamondback cocktail, made from Arizona Distilling Park Rye Whiskey, Laird's apple brandy and Green Chartreuse.

How to get in: These cardholders are eligible to use the Centurion Lounge:

• American Express Platinum card.
• American Express Business Platinum card.
• American Express Corporate Platinum card.
• Delta SkyMiles Reserve card.
• Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business card.
• Centurion members.

Corporate Platinum and Centurion members can bring up to two guests per visit for free. All other members must pay $50 per person to bring a guest, or $30 per person to bring children from ages 2 to 17.

Details: Open 6 a.m.-9 p.m. thecenturionlounge.com .

Escape Lounge

Where to find it:  Across from Gate B22.

Amenities: Complimentary Wi-Fi and charging ports at every seat. Print, scan and copy services are offered. Guests have complimentary access to electronic magazines and newspapers via PressReader.

Details: Open 5 a.m.-10 p.m. escapelounges.com .

Chase Sapphire Lounge (coming soon)

Where to find it:  The Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club will be in the high-numbered D gates, across from The Crystals @ Sky Harbor food hall. The lounge remains under construction .

Amenities: Chase Sapphire Lounge amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, spaces for working and relaxing, wellness areas, nursing rooms, family rooms and access to digital newspapers and magazines.

Food: What the menu at Phoenix will include is not yet known. Generally, Chase Sapphire Lounges feature menus by local chefs, craft cocktails, a wine list and local coffee selections.

How to get in: The Chase Sapphire Lounge will be open to Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders and Priority Pass members, plus people who purchase day passes. Passengers flying with any airline will be able to use the lounge.

• Chase Sapphire Reserve, J.P. Morgan Reserve and The Ritz-Carlton Credit Card cardholders can access the lounge through their complimentary Priority Pass membership. Sapphire Reserve and J.P. Morgan Reserve cardmembers may bring up to two guests per visit for free, and additional guests for $27. Children under 2 years old are free. Ritz-Carlton cardholders may bring unlimited guests at no charge.
• Priority Pass members who don't have any of the above credit cards can access the lounge for free once per year.

Details: Hours to be announced. account.chase.com/sapphire-airport-lounge .

Michael Salerno is an award-winning journalist who’s covered travel and tourism since 2014. His work as The Arizona Republic’s consumer travel reporter aims to help readers navigate the stresses of traveling and get the best value for their money on their vacations. He can be reached at  [email protected] . Follow him on X, formerly Twitter:  @salerno_phx .

Support local journalism.   Subscribe to  azcentral.com  today.

5 Tips for Your First Time in an Airport Lounge

A irport lounges aren't open to everyone, but it's now easy enough to get in. There are plenty of credit cards with airport lounge access , and this perk is also normally included if you're flying in business class or first class.

If it's your first time visiting an airport lounge, you're probably excited, and maybe wondering how to get the most out of it. I travel often, and I've been to dozens of airport lounges. Here are my top five tips for enjoying your time at the lounge.

1. Check the location online so you know where to go

Some airports are huge, and it's tiring to wander around looking for a lounge. Before you go to the airport, check the location for any lounges you can access.

This information will be available on your lounge program's website. Let's say your travel card includes a Priority Pass membership. First, visit the Priority Pass website. Search for the airport, and you'll see all the lounges available there. Don't forget to activate the Priority Pass membership, too, so you can use it.

It's the same process as other lounge programs. For example, if you have access to Delta Sky Clubs, visit the airline's website and search for Delta Sky Club locations.

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2. Review the entry rules

When you look up lounge info before your flight, make sure to also check the entry requirements. Specifically, you'll want to check:

• Hours of operation: To confirm it will be open before your flight.
• Entry restrictions : Some lounges won't let you in more than three hours before your flight.
• Guest policies: If you plan to bring any friends or family with you, you'll want to know if your lounge program has rules on if you can bring guests or if there's an extra fee for doing so).

It's especially important to review this if you have a late-night or early-evening flight, when lounges may be closed. Or, if you'll be arriving at the airport several hours ahead of your flight, see if the lounge you're planning to visit has entry restrictions.

3. Do a lap first

You've found the lounge and checked in. What now? Personally, I like to do a quick lap around the lounge before I get comfortable. This is to get an idea of the amenities the lounge offers and to see all the seating options.

There have been times when I just grabbed one of the first seats I saw. Then, while getting a drink, I noticed much more comfortable chairs elsewhere. By walking around first, you can find the best spot and get settled in sooner.

The exception to the rule is when a lounge is packed. In that case, you might want to grab any decent seat that's available.

4. Make the most of the amenities

Amenities at airport lounges vary. Smaller lounges may offer snacks, drinks, and magazines/newspapers. Larger lounges may have:

• Meal service
• Relaxation rooms
• Play areas for children

You can find a lounge's amenities online when you check the location and hours. There's also often info about amenities when you log into the lounge's wifi.

Don't be shy about taking advantage of the lounge's perks. No one's going to bat an eye if you grab two desserts or have a few drinks (travel drinking doesn't count). If you're tired and just want to take it easy, look for a relaxation room or a quiet area.

5. Keep an eye on your flight status

Many lounges don't announce flight statuses. You might not hear your boarding announcement unless the lounge is right by the gate.

When it's getting close to your flight's boarding time, keep an eye on the flight info display. This will let you know when the plane is at the gate and when boarding has started. If you're in an early boarding group and want to make sure you get on the plane with that group, you may want to head over once the plane is at the gate.

Also, make sure you know where your boarding gate is and how long it will take to get there. Some lounges have a handy sign that says how many minutes it is from nearby gates. If not, you can also ask a lounge employee at the front desk.

Kicking back in a lounge can make your time at the airport much more fun. If you'd like to be able to get into airport lounges, look for credit cards with this feature. While quality varies from lounge to lounge, it's always better than the boarding area.

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• At the airport

Admirals Club

Special notice.

One-Day Pass access to Admirals Club ® lounges may be limited or not available based on lounge capacity.

Inside the club

Complimentary amenities and services are available to make your travel more productive and relaxing.

House drinks

Made-to-order specialties*

Personal travel assistance

Shower suites*

Business center*

Taking the lounge to the next level

We’re committed to providing you with the best experience possible. New, complimentary enhancements will begin rolling out on July 23, 2023.

Enhanced food

Fill up on a greater variety of premium food and enjoy hearty regional dishes. Plus, select lounges will offer convenient grab-and-go snacks if you’re short on time.

Expanded drink menus

Sip on sparkling wine, local craft beer and spirits. You can also enjoy more complimentary cocktails like mimosas, unique Bloody Marys and signature cocktails inspired by each location.

A new look and feel

Relax in redesigned lounges across the U.S., like the new Admirals Club ® in Washington Reagan (DCA) Terminal E. This new look and feel is also coming to Denver (DEN) and Newark (EWR) later in 2023.

Food and drink

Starting July 23, 2023, you can enjoy the expanded complimentary drink menus at all U.S. locations, with the locally inspired signature cocktails coming soon. Enhanced food will also be available on July 23 at Los Angeles (LAX), Miami (MIA) and Washington Reagan (DCA), and at all U.S. locations by early 2024.

• A unique, premium menu featuring local flavors**
• Standard favorites including oatmeal, hard boiled eggs, whole fruit and cereal also available
• Made-to-order avocado toast compliments of Mastercard*

Lunch and dinner

• Standard favorites including soups, snack mixes, crudité, dip and whole fruit also available
• Grab-and-go snacks*
• Made-to-order guacamole compliments of Mastercard*
• Non-alcoholic drinks including freshly brewed coffee, espresso and lattes, handcrafted artisanal teas, iced tea and soft drinks
• Alcoholic drinks including house beer and wine, local craft beer, sparkling wine, spirits and cocktails
• A locally inspired Bloody Mary and signature cocktail**

Full meals and premium drinks

Hungry for more? Our clubs have bigger meals and premium cocktails available for purchase.

Enjoy a complimentary Admirals Club® membership

Citi ® / AAdvantage ® Executive World Elite Mastercard ® cardmembers enjoy perks like:

• Limited-time: Earn 100,000 bonus miles. Terms apply.
• Complimentary Admirals Club ® membership (a value of up to $850)
• Earn up to 20,000 additional Loyalty Points after qualifying activities to elevate your AAdvantage ® status
• Learn more Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines
• Already a cardholder? Learn about your benefits

*At select locations

**Premium food and drink menus at each lounge may differ

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WiFi is available throughout our hotels allowing you to stay in touch when you are away from home, whether you want to search the web, email or get some work done. WiFi is free for 30 mins per 24 hour period. Alternatively 24 hour access is available for £3.00. Add to your online booking or purchase at hotel via our WiFi log in page using a credit/debit card. Each WiFi voucher code is valid for use on a maximum of two devices. Please note that WiFi is non-refundable. T&Cs apply.