But there's another way to gain lounge access: Priority Pass. Priority Pass memberships are available for anyone to purchase, with three levels of membership designed to suit fliers of different frequencies. The fact that anyone can purchase a Priority Pass membership also means that it's giftable.

Yes, you can gift airport lounge access in several ways, making it a popular "last-minute" gift for travelers in 2026. One of the most common methods is purchasing a one-time lounge pass directly from an airline (like United or American) or an independent lounge operator (like Plaza Premium or No1 Lounges). These passes are usually sent as a digital QR code that the recipient can scan at the entrance. Another option is gifting a Priority Pass membership, which provides the recipient with a set number of lounge visits or unlimited access for a year, depending on the tier purchased. If you have a premium credit card like the Amex Platinum, you can also "gift" access by making someone an Authorized User on your account; they will receive their own card which unlocks lounge benefits globally. Finally, many "travel experience" websites like LoungeBuddy allow you to buy gift cards specifically for lounge entry. This is an excellent way to elevate someone's travel experience, providing them with a quiet space, complimentary food, and drinks during their next layover.