Ever seen people relaxing in airport lounges while you wait near the boarding gate? Good news — your credit card may already give you that access. Let’s break down how it really works.
What Is Airport Lounge Access?
Airport lounges are exclusive waiting areas where you can relax before your flight.
They offer comfortable seating, free food, Wi-Fi, and sometimes even showers.
Credit card companies tie up with lounge networks to let cardholders enter for free or at a discounted rate.
How It Works
When your card says it offers lounge access, it means:
- The bank has partnered with certain lounge networks (like DreamFolks, Priority Pass, or Visa Lounge).
- You can enter by swiping your card at the lounge reception.
- The system checks how many free visits you have.
- If you still have visits left, you get in free. If not, the lounge charges you (usually ₹500–₹1,000 per visit).
Types of Lounge Access
- Domestic Lounge Access – Available at Indian airports. Great for frequent local travellers.
- International Lounge Access – At airports abroad. Usually on premium cards only.
- Add-on Card Access – Some banks also allow supplementary cardholders to enter lounges.
How to Know If Your Card Has It
- Check your credit card benefits page on the bank’s website.
- Look for terms like “Lounge Access,” “Priority Pass,” or “DreamFolks.”
- You can also call customer care to confirm how many visits are free each quarter or year.
Valuable Tips:
Lounge access means waiting comfortably before your flight. Priority boarding means getting on the plane early. They are different perks.
Track your free visits. Once you exceed them, charges apply.
If you travel often, pick a card with unlimited domestic visits.
Business travellers should go for cards with international lounge tie-ups.
Final Thoughts
Lounge access isn’t just a luxury — it’s a smart perk that saves you money and stress. Even mid-range credit cards in India now offer 2–8 free visits per quarter. So next time you fly, swipe your card and skip the crowded terminal.
Rupay Credit Card via Kiwi also provides lounge access with its premium Neon membership. You can check the detailed benefits here.
