Are Airport Lounges Worth It?

Many travelers get value from airport lounges -- but they're not for everyone.

Even if you've never visited an airport lounge, you've probably heard about them. Many travelers like to retreat to the calm oasis an airport lounge can provide before boarding a jam-packed flight. Airport lounges are becoming increasingly popular as more travelers discover them. But are airport lounges worth it? For frequent travelers, airport lounges can be valuable and may help to improve the overall travel experience.

What to expect from the airport lounge experience

Most lounges feature plentiful seating options, including workspaces for travelers who want to be productive and comfortable chairs with tables for those who wish to relax and unwind. You can also expect free wifi access and all the USB and electric outlets you could need.

The majority of lounges also feature snacks and drinks, including alcoholic beverages. Premium lounges may offer more extensive offerings like signature cocktails and dinner buffets. Not all lounges are created equal. But when you compare most airport lounges to the overcrowded and loud public waiting areas available at most airports, it's easy to see why travelers enjoy retreating here rather than waiting at their gates.

How to tell if airport lounges are for you

If you like to travel and dislike how busy the airport gets, you may want to check one out soon to see what it's really like to visit an airport lounge. While they're not for everyone, they can be worthwhile. You should consider your travel style, current airport habits, and budget when deciding if investing in airport lounge access is worth the extra expense.

Here are some questions you may want to ask yourself.

Do you spend money on food and drinks while at the airport?

It's not unusual for food and drink prices to be highly inflated at the airport. If you spend a lot of money on snacks and beverages while waiting at the airport, lounge access may help you save money. Instead of paying an expensive airport bar tab, you can head to the lounge and consume free snacks and drinks there. Doing this could help you keep more money in your checking account.

How often do you fly?

For occasional travelers, airport lounges may not be worth it. Not every airport has a lounge, and they're typically located in more popular airport terminals, so there may not always be one near your gate. Plus, some lounges don't sell day passes and are only available to those who pay for a membership. Consider how often you'd put your membership benefits to use to determine if it's worth the money. If you hardly ever fly, it's probably not worth it.

Does your home airport have a lounge?

It's also wise to research whether your home airport has airport lounges. If you live in a smaller city, you may be out of luck. You want to ensure you'll get plenty of use from your investment, so check this before splurging on a pricey airport lounge membership.

Your credit card may unlock access to airport lounges

These days, many premium travel credit cards include airport lounge access as a perk. If you already have a credit card like this in your wallet, you should visit an airport lounge to decide if the experience suits you. Most travel rewards credit cards with this kind of benefit also come with a pricey annual fee. Ensure you'll benefit from the card's other features and can afford the yearly fee before applying for a card with airport lounge perks.

Airport lounges can be a win (but not always!)

While airport lounges can be a win for frequent travelers, they're not a good fit for everyone. Additionally, as more people learn about airport lounges, they've become increasingly crowded. Even if you have an airport lounge pass, you may be denied entry if the lounge is too full. If you plan to visit an airport lounge soon, go in with an open mind. What matters most is if the experience is worthwhile to you -- not what other travelers think.