3 Little-Known Perks of Premium Credit Cards Most People Miss

The best perks of luxury cards aren't listed on the front page. They're the kind of things you only find out from someone who's been around the block.

Most people swipe their premium card for points and call it a day. But if you know where to look, these cards unlock a whole different level of luxury.

And no, you don't need to be rich and famous to get treated like a VIP. High-end credit cards are within reach of everyday people like me and you.

1. Get a massage before your flight

If you have a luxury travel card, it likely comes with Priority Pass airport lounge access. While most travelers think airport lounges just have comfy chairs and free snacks, some offer a lot more -- like spa treatments!

A few examples of hidden lounge perks:

• The Be Relax Spa (30-plus locations including LA, NYC, Dallas) offers complimentary 30-minute back massages, 10-minute facial or foot massages, or oxygen therapy for Priority Pass members.
• You can get a private napping room or sleep pod at Minute Suites, where the first hour is free with Priority Pass membership.
• Some airport lounges in major cities offer showers, many with complimentary toiletries.

Pro tip: Your credit card might require a separate enrollment to activate lounge perks. Once unlocked, always check the specific lounge to see if it has the amenities you want and if it requires a reservation.

Check out my hands-down favorite card for lounge access. It has the widest available network of lounges I've seen.

2. Reserve a table at a "fully booked" restaurant

This sneaky perk could get you a table at a buzzy new restaurant -- even if it's fully booked.

Certain premium cards unlock VIP foodie benefits through partners like Resy, OpenTable, or Visa Dining Collection.

Here's what these services can get you:

• Early access to prime reservations
• Invites to exclusive tasting events
• The ability to snag a table even when the restaurant shows "full"

Even if you're not a regular fine diner, snagging a high-end reservation is a powerful move for impressing clients, or surprising your partner for a special celebration.

3. Call a professional problem-solver

Premium cards often come with concierge services. Think of this perk as a personal assistant on speed dial, ready to help solve problems.

Here are a few ways concierge services can assist you:

• Track down a lost passport or medication when you're abroad
• Send flowers or gifts last-minute while you're traveling
• Research services and products on your behalf
• Help you find event tickets, book hotels, or plan custom travel itineraries

It's kind of like having an agent on call to assist you with anything you need.

Concierge services vary by issuer. So always check your card's benefit guide for specifics on what they can offer.

One service that gets a lot of praise online is the Visa Infinite Concierge service. Click here to learn more about a card that includes this perk. It's perfect for busy travelers!

Unlock the magic

Premium credit cards aren't just for the uber-rich. Regular folks like you and me can use them to unlock VIP perks and make life a little easier and travel a little more comfortable.

But the key is actually using the perks.

There's no sense in paying a high annual fee if you're not tapping into the hidden benefits and enjoying some of the finer things along the way.