The Thrifty Traveler Podcast

Is Lounge Access … Underrated? (& How to Get In for Less)

23 snips
Nov 20, 2025
Airport lounges offer more than luxury; they can save travelers money on food and provide a calm atmosphere. The hosts share the best ways to gain lounge access, including tips on using credit cards and elite status. They also review their favorite lounges worldwide and discuss recent airline compensation changes. Listeners can find value in leveraging AI chatbots for trip planning and stay updated on exciting credit card offers. Plus, there's a humorous glimpse into Gunnar's business retreat mishap!
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ADVICE

Lounges Save Money On Airport Spending

  • Use airport lounges to avoid overpriced food and drinks in terminals and save money on long layovers.
  • Treat lounge access cost like an annual value and compare against how often you travel to break even.
ANECDOTE

Lounge Help Turned A Mess Into A Nonstop

  • Gunnar used a Sky Club visit to get better rebooking help during a disrupted connection and secured a nonstop flight home.
  • Lounges often house customer-service agents who can resolve irregular-operations issues faster.
ADVICE

Check Lounge Quality Before Booking Premium Seats

  • Research lounge availability for your departure airport before booking to ensure a premium ticket actually grants a worthwhile lounge.
  • Prefer long-haul business/first fares for lounge access and check lounge quality at that airport first.
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