Best airport mental hack for last-minute types: Get lounge access beyond Priorty Pass

Even though most domestric lounges are hit-or-miss, it's a way to trick myself into getting to the airport 30 to 45 minutes earlier than I would. That way, if I'm running late, worst case I miss the lounge or cut short the time.

For those complaining that lounges are overcrowded with mediocre food, it's true and getting worse. However, it's buffet style - select a healthy salad option with a reasonable protein. Non Priority Pass options are somewhat worthwhile -- United Clubs have gone through a massive upgrade post Covid and so far haven't been too crowded. They also allow access upon arrival, if you really need to fire off some emails and hydrate upon landing.

As for in-flight, for former gaming geeks, try classic emulators. They won't require internet and drain very minimal battery life on your latop.

The adjacent hack is to bring an empty water bottle in your carry-on, which you fill once you clear security. Then, you have a full bottle of water and can decline everything from the "beverage cart" on your flight, meaning you never need to worry about managing a precarious open cup of liquid and ice sitting on your in-flight tray.

I’d struggle to ever pay for lounge access. Even when I’ve flown international first class the lounge is still usually quite disappointing in food, comfort and ambience. It’s better than sitting at the gate but maybe only $10 better. The one exception would be if I had a long layover.

Concur. Amex plat or equiv is a good option. Important caveat that their lounges tend to fill up, so you may not get in. If you do, it's step up from Delta lounges etc; food's good, relatively.

Agree completely, between myself and my wife as an authorized user, I gladly pay the almost $2000 a year in annual fees for the Delta Reserve and the Amex Platinum for lounge access in almost every scenario.

The Reserve easily pays for itself with the once a year round trip companion pass good for anywhere in the US, Caribbeans, Mexico or Central America and the hotel credit and the Platinum the same with the credits.

My wife and I have averaged around a flight per month since Covid. With a lot of random trips back home to ATL where Delta has nine lounges

I don't pay for lounges but I find that arriving at the airport affords a peace of mind that is priceless (iv'e seen how flustered the hurried get in security or baggage desks) . If I'm working or hanging out at the airport - I'd just be doing the same thing at home.

I had Priority Pass for a few years when I had a premium credit card for other reasons. I think I used a club a few times when Star Alliance/United wasn't available. Nothing special. And the meaningful meal discounts were few and far between.

> bring an empty water bottle in your carry-on

I find it handy to include a carabiner on the water bottle lid for hanging off the back of the seat.

Also beware metal water bottles, as they will sometimes deform if sealed during elevation change.

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