Rain swept across JFK’s Terminal 4 one Thursday afternoon. Marisa Lang sat on the carpet between gates B27 and B31. Her flight to Miami was delayed. The Priority Pass lounge she counted on was “at capacity.” She checked again. Still full. It was in that moment that she started wondering if there were better Priority Pass alternatives she could rely on next time.

“I’ve had this card for years,” she said, holding her platinum travel wallet. “It used to feel exclusive. Now it feels random.”

That sentiment is spreading. Once the gold standard for airport lounge access, Priority Pass, boasting entry to over 1,700+ lounges worldwide, is now struggling to meet demand. In the U.S., where credit card issuers have made lounge access a mainstream perk, many travelers find themselves asking, “Is there a better way to fly comfortably?”

Let’s find out!

 

Why U.S. Travelers Are Turning to Priority Pass Alternatives

U.S. airports are busier than ever. According to a recent report, daily commercial flights have returned to 98% of pre-pandemic levels. And with more premium credit cards offering free lounge access, even once-quiet lounges at hubs like JFK, LAX, and O’Hare are now packed.

In 2024, a survey of 1,500 frequent U.S. travelers found that 48% experienced denial of lounge access with Priority Pass that year. In the same study, 61% said they’re actively seeking alternative solutions.

“Priority Pass has become a victim of its success,” said Derek Kane, a travel loyalty expert and former advisor to Chase Sapphire. “The idea was convenience. But today, it’s a line, sometimes longer than TSA.”

Related – What is Priority Pass? A Complete Guide for Travelers

 

Capital One Lounges – U.S. Comfort That’s Available

Capital One’s flagship lounge at Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) has won rave reviews from U.S. travelers. To start, Capital One limits access to Venture X cardholders and select guests. As a result, the experience remains exclusive by design.

Guests enjoy chef-prepared meals and cold brew. They also get nap pods and a cycling room. The lounge expansion continues. Denver (read our complete city guide here) and Dulles are expected to be completed by late 2025.

“It’s a haven,” said Michelle Torres, a business development manager who flies out of DFW weekly. “They don’t let it get overcrowded. I can work, eat, and recharge without noise.”

Capital One takes a curated approach, limiting who gets in. It focuses on offering real value to travelers. It has made it one of the top Priority Pass alternatives for American flyers seeking quality over quantity.

 

American Express Centurion Lounges – Still Elite, Still Crowded

Centurion Lounges operate in major U.S. airports from Miami to San Francisco. Travelers recognize them for upscale service. The lounges also serve gourmet meals.

In some cities, guests have access to spa services. Yet, the cocktail menus often include locally inspired options.

But exclusivity has limits. Amex restricts entry to Platinum and Centurion cardholders. However, they even face strict rules. Specifically, the policy prohibits entry more than three hours before departure, denies reentry, and enforces stricter guest rules.

“They’re incredible when you get in,” said Bryan Lee, a tech executive who flies out of Seattle-Tacoma weekly. “But lately, I’ve skipped them. Too packed.”

Also read – American Express Centurion Lounge Tokyo Promises Style and Serenity

 

Chase Sapphire Lounges – The Dark Horse Rising

With its first U.S. location opening in Boston Logan International Airport, Chase Sapphire Lounges are positioning themselves as accessible luxury. Early reviews praise their open design, curated menus, and quiet zones.

To begin with, Sapphire Reserve cardholders receive lounge access. Besides, they receive several additional perks. These include priority seating, extended stays, and concierge services. Priority Pass members can also enter, but without the enhanced experience.

Chase is rolling out lounges in Phoenix (also, read our complete city guide here), San Diego, and Las Vegas, reinforcing its role as a key player in Priority Pass alternatives.

 

DragonPass – For U.S. Flyers Who Go Global

DragonPass may not be a household name in the U.S. However, it holds strong global recognition. Notably, it offers access to over 1,300 lounges. These include some locations that accept Priority Pass, as well as others that do not. 

For Americans flying through Europe or Asia, DragonPass provides wider availability. This is especially true for those with bank accounts linked to HSBC or ICBC.

Moreover, in 2024, several prominent U.S. fintech startups took notice. As a result, many now include DragonPass in their lineup of Priority Pass alternatives.

Julia Hammond, a bi-coastal startup founder, flew to Singapore for a tech conference. “My Priority Pass was rejected. But my DragonPass got me into a better lounge two terminals away.”

Also, you can read the Dragon Pass vs Priority Pass comparison for a better understanding.

 

LoungeBuddy – Booking Access Like a Hotel Room

LoungeBuddy changes the model entirely. Moreover, it lets you book lounge access in real-time through an app, with no membership required and no hidden conditions. Typically, most bookings fall within the range of $25 to $60.

For infrequent travelers or those burned by Priority Pass limitations, LoungeBuddy offers control. In this case, you choose the lounge, pay on the spot, and walk in, making it a reliable option among Priority Pass alternatives.

“It’s saved me twice,” said Jamie Clarke, a consultant. “When Priority Pass fails, LoungeBuddy always works.”

 

Plaza Premium Lounges – Better Since Going Solo

Plaza Premium Lounges officially split from Priority Pass in 2021. Many travelers thought this would weaken the brand. Instead, it allowed Plaza Premium to double down on quality.

With over 250 lounges worldwide, they now offer their memberships and partner with specific cards, including American Express and Visa Infinite. They now prioritize design, food, and quiet zones, making them a strong contender among Priority Pass alternatives.

“I didn’t even realize Priority Pass had lost Plaza Premium until I got better service there,” said Lisa Ngo, a frequent flier between L.A. and Tokyo.

Recommended read – Plaza Premium Lounge Access: Travel with Peace of Mind

 

Beyond Lounges – Redefining Airport Comfort

Not all alternatives come in the form of a lounge. Some startups are reimagining the entire airport experience. Services like TAV Passport and AccessNow offer concierge check-in, fast-track security, and access to quieter boarding gates.

Furthermore, even major U.S. carriers are joining in. For example, United and Delta now allow loyalty members to redeem credits. They cover suites, spas, or workspaces.

“It’s not always about food and a couch,” said Pauline Niyogi, a product lead at a travel tech firm. “Sometimes it’s about control over your time.”

 

So, Should You Still Trust Priority Pass?

For many travelers, Priority Pass remains a viable option, but fewer are relying on it as their sole means of travel. A diversified approach is now the norm for seasoned flyers. It combines cards, apps, and pay-per-use options. At JFK, LAX, ORD, or ATL? Lounge check is key.

Research Priority Pass lounge access and its associated rules. Review any restrictions before heading out. Then, have a backup.

In 2025, airport comfort is no longer defined by one pass. The savvy traveler carries a toolkit. And that toolkit includes the best Priority Pass alternatives available.

 

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