Which Airline Has The Best Travel Club? A Guide To Frequent Flyer Programs

Many airlines offer travel clubs in the form of airport lounges. These lounges can be a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of the main airport terminal and provide travellers with a calm and comfortable space to relax or work. In the US, there are six major and regional airlines that offer member lounges: Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, United Airlines, and Virgin America. These lounges typically offer amenities such as complimentary food and drinks, including alcohol, designated work spaces, free Wi-Fi, and sometimes showers. Access to these lounges can be gained through purchasing a membership, flying in a premium cabin, earning elite status in the carrier's frequent flyer program, or by having certain credit cards that offer lounge access as a perk.

What are the benefits of joining an airline travel club?

Joining an airline travel club can have its benefits, but it's important to be aware of the potential pitfalls. Travel clubs are membership programs that offer discounts on airline tickets, hotels, or rental cars, often marketed as a Costco or Sam's Club for travel. However, it's important to note that these clubs are not always what they seem and can sometimes be scams. If you're considering joining an airline travel club, here are some potential benefits to keep in mind:

Flexibility and Customization

Travel clubs offer flexible membership options with a variety of plans to cater to different travellers' needs. They provide customized itineraries or vacation packages, allowing you to change your location or trade for a longer interval depending on your vacation plans. This flexibility ensures that you are exposed to various cultures and backgrounds during your travels.

Access to Deals and Rewards

Travel clubs give members access to exclusive deals and reward programs that can result in significant savings on trips. They also offer points on purchases, which can be redeemed for services. This can make your travel more affordable and allow you to make the most of your vacation budget.

Customer Support and Emergency Assistance

One of the biggest advantages of travel club membership is the customer support you receive during your vacation. Travel clubs provide assistance in case of unexpected natural calamities, medical emergencies, or other emergencies that may arise while you are on your trip. This can give you peace of mind and help you feel more secure while travelling.

Access to Different Aircraft

If you're a pilot or aviation enthusiast, travel clubs can offer you the opportunity to fly a variety of aircraft. This can help you gain flying experience, improve your skills, and find the aircraft that's right for you if you're considering purchasing your own plane.

Community and Social Events

Travel clubs, especially flying clubs, create a sense of community among their members. They connect you to a network of people who share your interests and passions. Many clubs also organize social events and activities outside of travel, such as lectures, family barbecues, or continuing education opportunities. This can make your travel experience more social and enjoyable.

However, it's important to be cautious when joining a travel club. Some clubs use high-pressure sales tactics and offer deals that are too good to be true. Be sure to read the fine print, do your research, and understand the terms and conditions before signing up.

How much does it cost to join an airline travel club?

Joining an airline travel club can be done in several ways, but the two primary methods are travelling in business or first class, or earning elite status in the carrier's frequent flyer program. Earning elite status can be achieved by booking the requisite number of eligible fares or flying a specific number of miles each year.

If you don't fit into either of these categories, you can always buy a membership. Prices vary depending on the airline and the type of membership. Here are some examples of annual membership costs for different airlines:

• American Airlines: $650 for an individual, $1250 for a household
• Delta Air Lines: $545 for an individual, $845 for an executive membership
• Hawaiian Airlines: $40 for Plumeria Lounge
• Alaska Airlines: $450 for the first year, $350 for the second year
• Virgin America: Open to all passengers flying with an Upper-Class boarding pass and Flying Club Gold members

It's important to note that these prices may not include additional fees, such as guest passes, and that renewal rates may be lower than the initial membership cost. Additionally, some airlines offer the option to pay with frequent flyer miles instead of cash.

What is the best airline travel club?

When it comes to the best airline travel club, there are several options to consider, each offering unique benefits and perks. Here is an overview of some of the top airline travel clubs:

Delta Sky Club:

• Delta Air Lines offers the Delta Sky Club, with locations in Atlanta, Los Angeles, New York, and more.
• It provides spacious lounges, outdoor patios, and a variety of food and beverage options.
• Access methods include purchasing an annual membership, holding specific credit cards, or flying business/first class with Delta.

American Airlines Admirals Club:

• American Airlines operates the Admirals Club, with locations in Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami, and New York, among others.
• These lounges offer premium food and drinks, spacious shower suites, and DIY Bloody Mary stations.
• Access is granted to first/business-class passengers on qualifying flights, certain credit card holders, or through annual membership.

United Airlines United Club:

• United Airlines' United Club provides exclusive benefits at various locations, including Chicago, Newark, and Washington Dulles.
• The lounges feature daybeds, private shower facilities, and high-quality food and beverage options.
• Access is available to international first/business-class passengers on United or Star Alliance, United Club members, and certain credit card holders.

Alaska Airlines Lounge:

• Alaska Airlines' travel club includes six branded lounges across the United States, with the largest in Seattle-Tacoma.
• The lounges offer beautiful views, local craft beer and coffee, and a variety of dining options.
• Access is granted to elite and non-elite members for an annual fee, premium-class ticket holders, or oneworld Alliance partners.

Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse:

• Virgin Atlantic's Clubhouse, located in London Heathrow, Boston, Los Angeles, and other cities, offers a unique and playful branding experience.
• The lounges feature signature designs, high-quality food and drinks, and spa treatments.
• Access is available to Virgin Atlantic Upper Class passengers, Delta One travellers, or eligible elite status members.

Priority Pass:

• Priority Pass is an independent company offering access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, including "The Club" lounges.
• Benefits include complimentary snacks, drinks, workspaces, and sometimes showers.
• Access can be obtained through specific credit cards, purchasing a Priority Pass membership, or buying a day pass.

Each of these airline travel clubs provides distinct advantages, catering to different preferences and needs. The best choice depends on factors such as travel frequency, desired amenities, and eligibility requirements. Be sure to review the details of each program to determine which one aligns best with your travel habits and desired benefits.

How do I access an airline travel club lounge?

There are several ways to access an airline travel club lounge. Here are some of the most common methods:

Premium Credit Cards

Credit cards such as the Platinum Card from American Express, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve, and the United Club Infinite Card offer lounge access as a perk. These cards often come with a high annual fee, but they provide access to a wide range of lounges worldwide. Some cards also allow you to bring guests with you at no additional cost.

Priority Pass Membership

Priority Pass is a third-party membership program that grants access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide. There are different membership levels, including Standard, Prestige, and Standard Plus, each with its own annual fee and access benefits. Priority Pass is often included as a benefit with premium credit cards.

Elite Status with an Airline

If you have elite status with a specific airline, you may be eligible for free access to their lounges. Airlines usually have multiple tiers of elite status, and lounge access is typically offered at the mid-tier level or higher. Some airlines also allow you to bring a guest with you at no additional charge.

Purchase an Annual Lounge Membership

You can purchase an annual membership directly from an airline, which grants you access to their lounges and partner lounges. This option usually costs between $350 and $500 annually but can be a good value if you travel frequently. Some airlines also allow reciprocal access to other airline lounges with their membership.

Day Passes

Many airline lounges sell day passes, which can be purchased online or at the airport. Day passes typically cost between $29 and $79 per entry, and some credit cards even offer free lounge passes as a renewal benefit. This option is ideal for occasional travellers who want to enjoy the benefits of a lounge without committing to an annual membership.

LoungeBuddy

LoungeBuddy is an airport lounge booking service that allows you to purchase access to lounges worldwide. You can use the LoungeBuddy app to see which lounges you can access and buy access directly through the app. This option provides flexibility and convenience for travellers who want lounge access without any memberships or elite statuses.

What are the best credit cards for joining an airline travel club?

• Chase Sapphire Preferred Card: Best flexible rewards card for airlines
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: Best premium travel rewards card
• Chase Sapphire Reserve: Best premium rewards card for travel insurance
• The Platinum Card from American Express: Best premium rewards card for lounge access
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Best mid-tier Capital One travel rewards card
• American Express Gold Card: Best card for balancing travel and dining interests
• Aeroplan Credit Card: Best Aeroplan card
• United Quest Card: Best mid-tier United card
• British Airways Visa Signature Card: Best airline card for distance-based redemptions
• United Explorer Card: Best value United card for vacationers
• Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card: Best card for Delta lounge access
• Delta SkyMiles Platinum American Express Card: Best card for Delta loyalists
• United Club Infinite Card: Best card for United Airlines lounge access
• Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card: Best card for overall Delta benefits
• Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority Credit Card: Best Southwest card

Frequently asked questions